Effect of Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation on Hemiparetic Lower Limb Motor Function, Walking Capacity and Gait Performance of Stroke Patients

Abstract

One reason why stroke has caused a prolonged disability in various parts of the world is that it frequently leads to disorders of movement in the lower limbs, thus impairing walking ability and hindering the independent living of older people. Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) is a rehabilitation method based on neuromusic therapy that has recently attracted attention for its relative simplicity in implementation, low cost, and a strong basis in neuroplasticity for stroke-induced hemiplegia rehabilitation. RAS provides a stable, rhythmic sound cue for the patient, activates the brain's inherent ability to link auditory and motor circuits for controlling walking rhythm, and thus assists the patient in regulating walking time, improves gait rhythmicity and symmetry, and promotes lower limb motor function recovery. Review of clinical applications and research results for RAS in lower limb rehabilitation of stroke patients, exploration of possible mechanisms, identification of current problems in both research and practice, and proposal of future directions. The aim is to provide a reference for the promotion and fine-tuning of RAS in rehabilitation for stroke-induced hemiplegia.