Mechanical and Cardiopulmonary Responses To The Use of a Newly Designed Leg Simulator

Abstract

Axillary crutches are convenient for use but they impose certain physical and cardiovascular demands that not everyone can tolerate. ED Legsim^TM is a newly designed assistive device considered as a viable alternative for assisted ambulation. In this study, Twenty-seven normal participants walked using the ED leg simulator, axillary crutches and unassisted. Participants reported that the simulator had less cardiopulmonary impact, as indicated by heart rate response and perceived exertion, when the six-minute walk test was performed. Participants exhibited similar impact patterns and vertical ground reaction force values to that of normal walking as measured by force plates. Given these important findings, practitioners should examine the effectiveness of the ED Legsim ^TM for individuals with lower extremity impairments, restricted weight-bearing status, particularly those with a compromised cardiopulmonary system.