The effect of an arm sling on energy consumption while walking in hemiplegic patients
Author Information
Author(s): Han Seung Hoon Kim, Taikon Jang, Seong Ho Kim, Mi Jung Park, Si-bog Yoon, Seoung Ic, Choi Bong-Kun, Lee Michael Y, Lee Kyu Hoon
Primary Institution: Hanyang University, Seoul
Hypothesis
Shoulder support by an arm sling improves not only gait pattern but also the energy efficiency of patients with hemiplegia.
Conclusion
An arm sling can be used to improve the gait efficiency.
Supporting Evidence
- Heart rate decreased significantly while walking with the arm sling.
- Gait speed increased significantly with the arm sling.
- O2 rate decreased by 7% when walking with the arm sling.
- O2 cost was significantly lower when using the arm sling.
Takeaway
Using an arm sling helps people with weak arms walk better and use less energy.
Methodology
A randomized crossover design where patients walked with and without an arm sling on a 20m walkway.
Limitations
The sample size was relatively small and the study was conducted for a short period.
Participant Demographics
37 hemiparetic patients (25 men, 12 women) with an average age of 61.3 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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