Year: 2026 | Month: August | Volume: 13 | Issue: 8 | Pages: 23-29
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20260802
Applications of Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation in Gait Rehabilitation Following Stroke: A Scoping Review
Nikhil H M1, Nikita Das2, Yesho Deepa3, Belle Sharvani4, Dr. Manjunatha H5
1Department of Physiotherapy
1BPT, Akash Institute of Physiotherapy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Science, Devanahalli Bengaluru, India
2Lecturer, Akash Institute of Physiotherapy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Science, Devanahalli Bengaluru, India
3Lecturer, Akash institute of Physiotherapy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health science, Devanahalli Bengaluru,
India
4Associate Professor, Akash institute of Physiotherapy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Science, Devanahalli Bengaluru, India
5Professor, Akash Institute of Physiotherapy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Science, Devanahalli Bengaluru, India
Corresponding Author: Nikhil HM
ABSTRACT
Stroke is one of the leading causes of long-term disability worldwide, and gait impairment is a major factor affecting mobility, independence, and quality of life in stroke survivors. Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) is a treatment method used with conventional physiotherapy by providing rhythmic auditory cues such as metronome beat or music that helps to improve walking performance. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation on gait training in individuals with stroke. A literature review was conducted using studies published between 2015 and 2026 that were identified through electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus. Studies involving adults aged 18 years and above with stroke and evaluating the effects of RAS on gait-related outcomes were included. The reviewed evidence demonstrated that combining RAS with conventional rehabilitation improved gait speed, cadence, step length, stride length, gait symmetry, balance, and functional mobility compared with conventional therapy alone. Rhythmic auditory cues also enhanced movement synchronization, increased patient participation, and promoted more efficient walking patterns. Overall, the findings suggest that Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation is a safe, effective, and clinically useful adjunct to conventional physiotherapy for improving gait in individuals with stroke.
Keywords: Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation, Gait Training, Gait Parameters, Stroke Rehabilitation.
[PDF Full Text]