Speed dependence of crutch force and oxygen uptake: Implications for design of comparative trials on orthoses for people with paraplegia

Abstract

Objective: To determine speed dependence of crutch force and oxygen uptake, and to discuss the implications of differences in self-selected walking speed between orthoses in a comparative trial. Design: Cross- sectional comparison. Setting: Treadmill experiments and gait laboratory experiments were performed at five and three different imposed walking speeds, respectively. Patients: Five paraplegic subjects with lesions between T9 and T12 were included. All subjects had experience with ambulation using the advanced reciprocating gait orthosis (ARGO) as well as walking on a treadmill. Main Outcome Measures: Crutch force time integral (CFTI), crutch peak force on stance and swing side (CPF(sta..