Walker user risk index. A method for quantifying stability in walker users

Abstract

A method for quantifying the stability of a patient using a walking frame is presented. Data collected from a walker-dependent patient recovering from surgical amputation of his right leg were used to demonstrate the derivation and interpretation of a proposed walker user risk index (WURI). WURI curves express risk to the walker user in terms of how much the upper extremities contribute to overall patient support. The WURI analysis of the walker stride presented here quantified the expected clinical impression that this patient was least reliant on the walker immediately after the advance of his prosthetic leg and most reliant when standing on his prosthesis and swinging his nonamputated leg. The analysis also revealed unexpectedly high upper body loads and specific phases in the gait cycle where the patient's balance was at risk.