Low energy cost reciprocal walking for the adult paraplegic

The hip guidance orthosis which allows paraplegic children to walk reciprocally has been further developed for adult traumatic paraplegics. Since December 1981, 11 adult complete paraplegics have walked using this device, designated a 'Parawalker'. Our understanding of the mechanics of this form of ambulation and our early work with functional electrical stimulation leave us hopeful of achieving a realistic goal for these patients.