Characteristics of Classified Gait Pattern Subgroups and Definitions of Abnormal Gait Patterns Following Stroke: A Scoping Review.

BackgroundHemiplegic gait following stroke has been classified into several gait pattern subgroups; however, characteristics of the classified subgroups and definitions of abnormal gait patterns remain uncertain, despite the emerging importance of individualized gait training tailored to the personalized gait patterns following stroke. Therefore, we aimed to comprehensively explore the existing characteristics of the classified gait pattern subgroups following stroke.MethodsWe conducted this scoping review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews and Joanna Briggs Institute Evidence Synthesis guidelines. We comprehensively searched for studies classifying and investigating abnormal gait patterns following stroke using gait analysis instruments (e.g., motion analysis systems, force plates, and electromyography), published from January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2025, in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). Two reviewers independently screened the articles to include studies investigating abnormal gait pattern classifications following stroke.ResultsFifty-five studies were identified, of which twenty-six studies focused on gait pattern classifications to identify characteristics of classified subgroups, and twenty-nine studies investigated individual abnormal gait patterns. While classified gait pattern subgroups have been reported with a wide variety based on various gait parameters, the knee-related abnormal gait patterns during the stance and swing phases have frequently been reported from early to recent studies. However, few abnormal gait patterns except for the knee joint were defined using clear objective numerical thresholds following stroke.ConclusionGait classifications regarding the knee-related abnormal gait patterns following stroke may warrant particular attention in clinical settings.