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Upper extremity joint stresses during walkerassisted ambulation in post-surgical patients
Kevin J McQuade1, Margaret Finley, Anamaria S Oliveira
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
Summary
Walker use significantly loads upper extremity joints, with nearly 20% of body weight compressing the wrist, elbow, and shoulder. These high forces may contribute to secondary pain and injury in patients using walkers for mobility assistance.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Walkers are essential assistive devices for individuals with balance impairments or lower extremity injuries.
- Prolonged walker use can strain upper extremities, increasing the risk of secondary conditions like wrist, elbow, or shoulder pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify joint kinematics, forces, and moments in the wrist, elbow, and shoulder.
- To analyze these parameters in twenty patients using walkers post-hip and knee joint replacement surgery.
Main Methods:
- Employed a 3D motion capture system to record upper extremity kinematics.
- Utilized a walker instrumented with force transducers to measure transmitted forces and torques.
Main Results:
- Compressive forces reached approximately 20% of body weight across upper extremity joints (surgical and non-surgical sides).
- The highest forces were observed at the wrist, decreasing proximally towards the shoulder.
- Non-surgical limbs experienced greater compressive forces at the wrist and elbow compared to surgical limbs.
Conclusions:
- Walker-assisted ambulation generates substantial loads on upper extremity joints.
- Further research is necessary to establish a causal link between joint loading and secondary musculoskeletal complaints in vulnerable patient populations.
