How does orthotic walker boot design influence lower limb and trunk function during gait?

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Gait Analysis

Background:

• Orthotic walker boots can cause undesirable gait deviations.
• There is a need to optimize orthotic walker boot designs for normal gait.
• Previous research indicates issues with lower limb mechanics during walker boot use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the biomechanical effects of two different orthotic walker boot designs.
• To compare the effects of walker boots versus usual footwear on lower limb and trunk movement.
• To identify design features that may mitigate gait deviations.

Main Methods:

• Sixteen healthy participants walked in three conditions: two different walker boots (Walker A, Walker B) and usual footwear.
• Kinematic and kinetic data were collected using a 10-camera motion analysis system and four force plates.
• A repeated measures analysis of variance evaluated gait variables.

Main Results:

• Both walker boots resulted in significantly slower gait speed and decreased ankle range of motion.
• Significant deviations in knee, hip, pelvic, and trunk kinematics/kinetics were observed with both walker boots.
• Walker B exhibited greater deviations than Walker A, with notable differences in shank angular velocities and potential adverse knee joint moments.

Conclusions:

• Orthotic walker boot design significantly influences walking mechanics.
• Features such as greater forefoot rocker profiles and inclined vertical shank angles may help reduce gait deviations.
• Optimized orthotic walker designs can potentially improve gait normalcy and user experience.