Ergonomy of paraplegic patients working with a reciprocating gait orthosis

A reciprocating gait orthosis (RGO) is, among others, the most widely adopted device to restore the standing and walking capability of paraplegic patients. The aim of the present study was the evaluation of the energy demand (VO2), and cardiopulmonary load (HR and VE) imposed on the subject by different working tasks while sitting in a wheelchair or standing using a RGO. In addition, a comparison with the performance of normal subjects was also attempted. The RGO use allowed a dramatic improvement of patients' mobility and reach space in the workplace. A further advantage provided by the use of the RGO was represented by the increased mobility of the subjects with respect to the wheelchair confined situation. The energy demand and the cardiorespiratory load imposed on the subjects by the use of the RGO were not different from those observed both in the same subjects sitting in a wheelchair and in the controls. The energy demand slightly exceeded the values typical of light work and was, thus, compatible with the normal duration of a working day. On the other hand, the cardiac load corresponded to that typical of moderate activity, thus limiting the duration of the working task to 5-8 h. Based on the ergometry test, all of the working activities considered can be classified as aerobic activities, energy demand being under the ventilatory threshold.