Walkaround® assisted walking of stroke patients

Abstract

We describe here the differences in kinematics, ground force reactions, and temporal parameters of the gait of stroke patients walking assisted by a walking assist (e.g., cane) or therapist, and supported by a powered walking frame termed Walkaround®. The Walkaround® prevents from falling and supports trunk orientation by means of an ergonomic lumbar belt attached to the rigid wheeled frame by a suspensor system. The term powered relates to the electrical drives on the rear wheels that provide externally controlled mobility. The assessment of walking was done by a wireless system that estimates joint angles and distribution of ground force reactions. Ten stroke patients participated in this study and walked over the level ground over the distance of 6 meters. The Walkaround® allows significantly faster walking, improves the symmetry, and increases the range of joint angels. The users felt safer and the therapists were relieved from the physical effort of supporting stroke patients when walking within the Walkaround®. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.