The Effect of Cane Height on Walking and Balance for Stroke Patients / 農村醫學 地域保健

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the effects of using customized walking aids individualized for stroke patients by measuring the effects of different cane lengths to determine the ideal length of walking aids for stroke patients. METHODS: Cane lengths were determined from the greater trochanter with walking aids measured 5cm below, at the greater trochanter and 5cm above. All patients walked for ten meters with each cane length to measure speed. Then, we measured the opto gait, timed up go test, and electromyography three times each. Statistical analysis was performed using a linear mixed model, and in the case of significance, the p-value was corrected using the Bonferroni method. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant differences in time up and go test(TUGT), 10m walking, stride and speed between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Long cane length increases body symmetry, stride, increasing muscle activity, and short cane length increases balance and walking.