Cane Length Influence on the Plantar Pressure Distribution of Adult Hemiplegia Patients

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in plantar pressure distribution on the affected side related to arm length ratio to height of adult hemiplegia patients during gait. [Subjects] Twenty-four individuals with stroke were included in this study. [Methods] Subjects were divided into two groups according to the ratio of arm length to total height of each individual: group 1 had a ratio of less than 50% and group 2 had a ratio equal to or greater than 50%. The F-scan system was used to investigate the foot pressures of both feet with data captured during three strides. [Results] Group 1 showed greater increase in contact width, contact pressure, and peak contact pressure of the hind foot of the affected side. [Conclusion] With the use of a cane height standardized to the greater trochanter, group 1 was more effective than group 2 at increasing foot pressures of the hind foot on the affected side of stroke patients. The adjustment of cane length according to the individual's ratio of arm length to height, because of unique physical characteristics of individuals should be considered for patients with stroke who use a cane daily.