Thesis

36 Chapter 3 speed with 0.3 m/s and slowly decrease the belt speed until the participant again experiences it as comfortable. The average of both speeds will be used to set the comfortable walking speed. Other percentages (e.g. 40%, 70%, 120%) are derived from this reference speed. The C-Mill training will be carried out by a physiotherapist with C-Mill certification. Progression over the training period is initiated and controlled by this therapist and based on the patient’s capacity and performance. It comprises of increasing the level of task variability, increasing obstacle size, and the addition of a dual task, for example the use of the auditory Stroop task. During the Stroop task, participants listen to an audiotape presenting a random sequence of the words “high” or “low”, expressed in either a low-pitched voice or a high-pitched voice. They are asked to respond aloud indicating the pitch of the word (“high” or “low”), while ignoring the (randomly conflicting) semantic meaning of the word. Procedure and assessments All outcome measurements will be collected during the assessments at the movement laboratory (table 1). The intervention group is evaluated three times: pre C-Mill training (week 16), post C-Mill training (week 22), and at the end of the follow-up (week 38). The control group is evaluated four times: pre waiting-list (week 16), post waiting-list (week 22), post C-Mill training (week 28), and at the end of the follow-up (week 44). The assessments will follow a standardized protocol and are conducted by the primary investigator (LV) who is trained to perform the outcome measurements. As the primary investigator takes part in the training sessions, outcome assessment cannot be blinded. During all assessments, the use of orthotic devices and/or orthopedic footwear is allowed depending on the task. No other (walking) aids are allowed. If participants use any orthotic or orthopedic device during a task, this will be registered and kept constant throughout the consecutive assessments.

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