The use of an advanced reciprocating gait orthosis by paraplegic individuals : a follow-up study

• Published in: Spinal cord Vol. 35; no. 9; pp. 585 - 589
• Main Authors: JASPERS, P, PEERAER, L, VAN PETEGEM, W, VAN DER PERRE, G
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Nature Publishing 01.09.1997
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Biological and medical sciences; Diseases of the nervous system; Electric Stimulation Therapy; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Gait; Humans; Male; Medical sciences; Middle Aged; Orthotic Devices; Paraplegia - rehabilitation; Patient Satisfaction; Radiotherapy. Instrumental treatment. Physiotherapy. Reeducation. Rehabilitation, orthophony, crenotherapy. Diet therapy and various other treatments (general aspects); Performance evaluation; Human; Nervous system diseases; Motor system disorder; Orthosis; Electrical stimulus; Orthopedic treatment; Lower limb; User reaction; Functional capacity; Walking; Follow up study; Medullary paraplegia; Central nervous system disease; Spinal cord disease
• ISSN: 1362-4393; 1476-5624
• DOI: 10.1038/sj.sc.3100462

This article describes the results of a follow-up study of 14 paraplegic individuals who were fitted with the ARGO (Advanced Reciprocating Gait Orthosis--STEEPER) at least 1 year previously. It was found that 85% were still using the apparatus on a regular basis. The general satisfaction of the users was high, although the functional use was limited. Therapeutic reasons appeared to be the main reason for wearing the ARGO. The points that were most appreciated were the psychological and physiological benefits of standing and walking. Discussion with the users who were paraplegic provided valuable information concerning possible technical improvements to the ARGO.