A new grip part for the long cane used by visually impaired children was
developed and the effect of this grip, using the muscle activity of the
upper limbs, investigated.
Critical reflection on practice
When using a long cane with this newly designed grip, the upper limb
manipulating the cane showed less muscle activity than when using the
conventional grip part.
Implications for practice
Since long canes with the new grips require less muscle activity in their
operation, they are popular, making it possible to encourage their use from
the lower grade of elementary school.
Chiou-tanFYKevinNMThomasAK
(1999) Comparison of limb muscle activity in
four walking canes: A preliminary study. Journal of
Rehabilitation Research and Development36: 94–99.
2.
JohnsonJTJohnsonBFBruceB,
et al. (1998) Gait and long cane
kinematics: A comparison of sighted and visually impaired
subjects. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports
Physical Therapy27(2):
162–166.
3.
JulieMHowardDPDalla
PaluLA,
et al. (2001) Postures and
repetitive movements during use of a long cane by individuals with visual
impairment. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports
Physical Therapy31(7):
375–383.
4.
ShimizuJYoshiokaM
(in press) Investigation of problems in teaching long cane of visually impaired
persons.
5.
ShinJMKwonHYKimBI,
et al. (2013) Comparison of the
effects of walking with and without Nordic Pole on upper extremity and lower
extremity muscle activation.Journal of Physical Therapy Science25(12):
1553–1556.
