A new walking aid with axillary support for children with cerebral palsy: electromyographic evaluation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Science
• Pediatric Physical Therapy

Background:

• Children with cerebral palsy (CP) often exhibit impaired gait due to reduced motor control and muscle synergism.
• Standard walking aids may not provide adequate trunk stability for children with CP, hindering gait development.
• Improved muscle synergism in lower limbs is crucial for functional mobility in children with CP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel walking aid with axillary support (WAAS).
• To evaluate the impact of WAAS on lower limb muscle activation during gait in children with CP.
• To assess the potential of WAAS in enhancing gait and mobility for children with CP.

Main Methods:

• Electromyography (EMG) was used to record muscle activity in six children with spastic diparesis due to CP.
• Muscle activation of quadriceps, hamstrings, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius was measured during walking with and without WAAS.
• Each walking condition was repeated three times to ensure reliable data collection.

Main Results:

• WAAS significantly increased EMG activity in quadriceps and hamstrings during the stance phase.
• Tibialis anterior activation was significantly enhanced during the swing phase with WAAS use.
• No significant increase in gastrocnemius activation was observed, suggesting improved muscle coordination.

Conclusions:

• WAAS use improved lower limb muscle synergism in children with CP by reducing antagonistic muscle coactivation.
• Enhanced trunk stability provided by WAAS may lead to better muscular coordination and walking ability.
• The findings suggest WAAS can promote independent mobility, potentially improving social participation and quality of life for children with CP.