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Energetics of paraplegic walking
P Bowker1, N Messenger, C Ogilvie
1Department of Orthopaedic Mechanics, University of Salford, UK.
Journal of Biomedical Engineering
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Reciprocating walking orthoses for paraplegics are slow and energy-intensive, offering limited functional benefits despite user satisfaction. These devices do not provide the claimed advantages for mobility and independence.
Area of Science:
- Orthotics and Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Paraplegic Mobility
Background:
- Paraplegia presents significant mobility challenges.
- Reciprocating walking orthoses (RWOs) are designed to aid ambulation in individuals with paraplegia.
- The functional benefits of RWOs require objective evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the functional benefits of reciprocating walking orthoses for paraplegic individuals.
- To objectively measure walking speed and energy expenditure during orthotically aided ambulation.
- To compare RWO use with normal walking and wheelchair propulsion.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 35 paraplegic subjects utilizing RWOs.
- Measurement of walking speeds.
- Assessment of energy costs of ambulation using heart rate monitoring.
Main Results:
- Orthotically aided walking was found to be significantly slower than normal walking and wheelchair propulsion.
- Ambulation using RWOs was energy-costly, indicating high metabolic demand.
- The requirement for bilateral hand-held walking aids limited functional independence.
Conclusions:
- Reciprocating walking orthoses do not confer the widely claimed functional benefits for paraplegics due to slow speeds and high energy costs.
- Despite objective limitations, most subjects reported subjective improvements in mobility and independence and expressed satisfaction with their orthoses.