Birmingham/Worcester - Beat to control their feet

Researchers are investigating a theory that listening to a regular beat could help stroke patients even up the irregular style of walking that is common to the condition. Each year, more than 100,000 people in England suffer strokes, making it the largest cause of adult disability. A joint team from the universities of Birmingham and Worcester will analyse in detail the differences in patients' gaits before and after they start listening to a beat from a metronome. If the technique proves effective, it is hoped that it can be incorporated into simple home-based rehabilitation.