A technique to analyse the kinetics and energetics of cane-assisted gait

The purpose of this study was to develop a biomechanical technique to analyse the kinetics of cane-assisted gait. Biomechanical measures such as ground reaction forces (force platforms), cane reaction forces, and kinematics have been routinely measured. However, a full kinetic analysis of both the lower limb and the cane-assisted limb has not been reported: joint reaction forces, moments of force and mechanical powers. Such estimates give the researcher and clinician insight into the levels at each of the joints and the kinetics of the muscles responsible for the altered locomotion and stability. Standard inverse dynamics techniques were employed using a three-dimensional force transducer in the tip of the cane and as the subject walked over a force platform while his movement was recorded on video. Special problems existed when both the cane and foot bore weight on the force platform; the resultant indeterminacy problem was resolved so that independent solutions could be applied to both the lower and upper limbs.

A full kinetic and energetic biomechanical analysis is needed to identify motor pattern changes at each joint resulting from the use of the cane. Such information will be useful in pinpointing not only motor pattern changes at an affected joint but also adaptive motor pattern changes at other joints. Also, the contribution of the muscles at the wrist, elbow, and shoulder becomes evident not only to the stability of the gait but also to the energetics of forward propulsion.