Evaluation of buoyant hydrofitness devices for leg musculoskeletal conditioning

Air splints have been used for immobilization of fractures, skin graft stabilization and preprosthetic rehabilitation of the amputated lower limb. The purpose of this clinical study was to assess its use as a hydrofitness device to facilitate walking reeducation, to produce muscle strengthening and to increase joint extensibility in patients with weak legs. The performance of the air splint as a hydrofitness device was compared to that of the new foam hydrofitness device. The parameters used to assess the performance of these devices included durability, application and removal times, joint extensibility and the magnitude of the fluid drag forces. On the basis of this evaluation, the performance of the foam hydrofitness device was judged to be superior to that of the air splint for leg musculoskeletal conditioning.