Analysis of assisted-gait characteristics in persons with incomplete spinal cord injury

Ambulatory assistive device use can improve functional independence following spinal cord injury and, potentially, quality of life. However, the interaction between aids and user in this population is poorly understood. Objectives: To determine the influence of walkers, crutches and canes on assisted-gait following incomplete spinal cord injury. Study design/methods: Outcome parameters evaluated in ten individuals included orthogonal forces exerted on instrumented assistive devices, walking speed, cadence, step length, trunk and thigh angles, as well as knee and ankle joint angles. Kinetic data included axial compressive force, and medio/lateral and antero/posterior bending forces. Setting: Canada. Results: Results indicated that walkers ( n =5) provided the greatest vertical support (up to 100% body weight), but resulted in slow gait with a forward flexed posture. Elbow crutch users ( n =3) walked faster (greater step length and cadence) and had a more upright posture than the walker users. Crutches supported up to 50% of the subject's body weight, granted lateral stability, and provided restraint in the antero/posterior direction. Canes ( n =2) offered restraining and propulsive assistance, some lateral stability, and the least amount of vertical support. Conclusion: Ambulatory devices affected posture and walking speed while fulfilling various assistive functions during locomotion. The conclusion drawn is that rehabilitation specialists are advised to match device characteristics to user needs when prescribing walking aids. Sponsorship: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).