Gait changes with walking devices in persons with Parkinson's disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Gait disturbances are a hallmark of Parkinson disease (PD).
• Assistive walking devices are commonly prescribed to aid mobility in individuals with PD.
• The immediate effects of these devices on gait parameters are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immediate effects of using a cane and a wheeled walker on gait parameters in individuals with PD.
• To compare gait characteristics during assisted walking with unassisted walking.

Main Methods:

• Ten participants with idiopathic PD were recruited.
• Gait parameters were measured while walking under three conditions: free walk, with a cane, and with a wheeled walker.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare gait metrics across conditions.

Main Results:

• Gait speed significantly decreased when participants with PD used a cane (p=0.007) or a wheeled walker (p=0.002) compared to free walking.
• Stride length was significantly reduced when using a wheeled walker (p=0.001).
• Cadence, double support phase, heel-to-heel base of support, stride time, and stance period remained unaffected by the assistive devices.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with PD exhibit immediate reductions in gait speed when using a cane or wheeled walker.
• Wheeled walker use also leads to a shorter stride length.
• These findings suggest a need for careful consideration and tailored approaches in clinical practice when implementing gait rehabilitation strategies with assistive devices for PD patients.