Community Ambulation Research Articles

Accuracy in reporting incontinence in adults with spina bifida: A pilot study

The accuracy of self-reported urinary incontinence (UI) and fecal incontinence (FI) among adults with spina bifida (SB) is unknown. We aimed to quantify the accuracy of self-reported recall incontinence in the last 4 weeks using prospective diary data. Adults with SB were enrolled via patient advocacy groups in a larger 30-day smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment study of daily well-being and incontinence. We examined agreement between yes/no questions on exit questionnaires ("In the last 4 weeks, did you leak any urine and get your underwear, pads, pull-ups or disposable underwear wet?") and 30-day diaries. Collected data included a non-validated 4-item UI Negativity scale (UIN: 0-100, 0=no impact). Inter-rater reliability was assessed with Cohen's kappa (>0.60=substantial). FI was analyzed similarly. Sub-groups were too small for statistical analysis. Median age of 88 adults was 35 years old (70% female, 53% shunted, 71% community ambulators). Among 81 adults reporting UI in the last month, 79 (98%) had diary-documented UI (UI agreement), 2 (2%) did not (Summary Table). Among 7 adults reporting no UI in the last month, 5 (71%) did not record UI in their diaries (agreement in no UI), 2 (29%) did. Both adults reporting no UI on exit questionnaires, despite contrary diary data, experienced single UI episodes (negativity: 0 and 6). In contrast, the UI agreement group recorded UI on median 18 days (median negativity: 22). Sensitivity of the recall UI question was 0.98 (specificity 0.71, kappa 0.69). Among 66 adults reporting FI in the last month, 65 (98%) had diary-documented FI (FI agreement), 1 (2%) did not. Among 22 adults reporting no FI in the last month, 17 (77%) did not record FI in their diaries (agreement in no FI), 5 (23%) did. Five adults reporting no FI on exit questionnaires, despite contrary diary data, experienced a median single episode (median negativity: 8). In contrast, the FI agreement group recorded FI on median 5 days (median negativity: 31). Sensitivity of the recall FI question was 0.93 (specificity 0.94, kappa 0.81). Results were unchanged when analyzing the first and last 28 days of data. Sensitivity/specificity of single incontinence questions approach those reported for women with UI but without SB. Diaries may best serve SB adults with bothersome incontinence. Self-reported incontinence accurately and reliably captures UI and FI among adults with SB. It may minimize less bothersome incontinence, supporting its use in screening for clinical practice and research.

Urinary and Fecal Incontinence During Sexual Activity Is Common and Bothersome Among Adults With Spina Bifida

To evaluate the prevalence of and risk factors for urinary fecal incontinence (UI, FI) during sexual activity (UIS, FIS) among adults with spina bifida (SB). An international online survey of adults with SB was administered through SB clinics and SB organizations via social media. Adults with a history of masturbation or partnered sexual activity were included. The primary outcome was ever experiencing UIS/FIS. Non-parametric tests and logistic regression were used for analysis. A total of 341 adults met inclusion criteria (median age: 36 years, 59% female, 52% shunted, 48% community ambulators). Baseline UI in the last 4 weeks was reported by 50% and FI by 41%. Nineteen (5%) had a urostomy. Eight (2%) had a colostomy. Overall, 93% had a history of partnered genital contact. Among adults without a diversion, UIS was more common than FIS (70% vs. 45%, p<0.001). Among adults without a urostomy, UIS was more common among women (76% vs. 62%, p=0.01) and those with baseline UI (84% vs. 50%, p<0.001). UIS was not associated with age, shunt, ambulatory, or catheterization status (p>=0.32). On bivariate analysis, female sex and baseline UI were independent predictors of UIS (p<=0.001). Among adults without a colostomy, FIS was associated with female sex (50% vs. 39%, p=0.046), baseline FI (59% vs. 32%, p<0.001), community ambulation (52% vs. 40%, p=0.04), but not age, shunt, or MACE status (p>=0.27). On multivariate analysis, baseline FI was independently associated with FIS (p<0.001). Among adults with UIS/FIS, 29% experienced UIS "almost always" to "always," compared to 5% for FIS (p<0.001). Virtually all adults found UIS/FIS bothersome (>=96% for each), even when incontinence occurred "almost never." UIS/FIS mostly occurred before and/or during orgasm than afterwards (p<0.001). UIS was reported by 53% of adults with a urostomy (100% bothersome). FIS was reported by 38% of adults with a colostomy (100% bothersome). Incontinence during sexual activity is a common problem for men and women with SB. Baseline incontinence is an independent, but not absolute, predictor of both. While FIS is less frequent than UIS, both are virtually always bothersome.

Community ambulation in older adults and people with OA – a model verification using Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) data

BackgroundThere are health and well-being benefits of community ambulation; however, many older adults do not regularly walk outside of their home. Objectives were to estimate the associations between latent constructs related to community ambulation in older adults aged 65–85 (65+), and in adults with osteoarthritis (OA) aged 45–85.MethodsSecondary data analysis of the comprehensive baseline and maintaining contact questionnaire data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study of Aging (CLSA) was completed. Based on a previous model of community ambulation post-stroke, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to develop measurement and structural models for two groups: older adults 65+ and people with OA. Multi-group SEM was conducted to test measurement invariance across sex and age groups. Measurement models were developed for the following latent factors: ambulation (frequency of walking outside/week, hours walked/day, ability to walk without help, frequency and aids used in different settings); health perceptions (general health, pain frequency/intensity); timed functional mobility (gait speed, timed up-and-go, sit-to-stand, balance). Variables of depression, falls, age, sex, and fear of walking alone at night were covariates in the structural models.ResultsData were used from 11,619 individuals in the 65+ group (mean age 73 years ±6, 49% female) and 5546 individuals in the OA group (mean age 67 ± 10, 60% female). The final 65+ model had a close fit with RMSEA (90% CI) = 0.018 (0.017, 0.019), CFI = 0.91, SRMR = 0.09. For the OA group, RMSEA (90% CI) = 0.021 (0.020, 0.023), CFI = 0.92, SRMR = 0.07. Health perceptions and timed functional mobility had a positive association with ambulation. Depression was associated with ambulation through negative associations with health perceptions and timed functional mobility. Multi-group SEM results reveal the measurement model was retained for males and females in the 65+ group, for males and females and for age groups (65+, < 65) in the OA group.ConclusionsThe community ambulation model post-stroke was verified with adults aged 65+ and for those with OA. The models of community ambulation can be used to frame and conceptualize community ambulation research and clinical interventions.

Factors affecting community ambulation post-stroke: a mapping review protocol.

Most stroke survivors consider community ambulation an essential but unmet goal of their recovery. Historically, interventions to enhance community ambulation have focused on improving biomechanical impairments of gait; however, recent evidence suggests that biopsychosocial and environmental factors may impact community ambulation, even beyond more obvious physical impairments. The identification of factors that pose as significant facilitators or barriers to community ambulation may serve to guide stakeholders in designing relevant and evidence-based interventions for improving community ambulation post-stroke. This review aims to map the type and extent of existing evidence on the physical, biopsychosocial, and environmental factors affecting community ambulation post-stroke. Additionally, this review will describe the various methods used to examine the extent to which stroke survivors are restricted to community ambulation. Nine databases will be searched including CINAHL, PubMed, and Web of Science. We will include studies published in English during or after 2001. Studies that examine physical, biopsychosocial, and/or environmental factors affecting community ambulation in ambulatory adults at least six months post-stroke will be considered for inclusion. Studies that assess general physical activity or community mobility through transportation modes other than walking will be excluded. All identified records will be collated in citation management software, followed by steps of deduplication, title/abstract screening, and full-text reviews by at least two independent reviewers. The bibliographies of the extracted studies will also be reviewed for relevant articles. The extracted studies will be analyzed, critically appraised, and presented in tabular, narrative, and evidence map formats. The evidence gained will be used to build a framework for community ambulation, informing stakeholders to develop meaningful interventions to improve community ambulation. The mapped evidence will motivate future studies to develop holistic approaches that specifically focus on the most vital factors that influence post-stroke community ambulation.

Ab. No. 28 Association between Clinical and Community Environment on Gait Performance Among Individuals With Chronic Stroke

Introduction: Community ambulation is complex in nature when compared with ambulation in the Clinical environment in persons with stroke. However, it is unclear whether there is any association between clinical and community environment on gait speed and endurance of persons with stroke. So, this study aimed to examine the association between the clinical environment and community environment in terms of speed and endurance in people with chronic stroke. This study will help us to find out whether improving speed and endurance in a clinical environment is reflected in a community environment. Methods: A total of 46 participants in the age group 30-60 years diagnosed with a single episode of stroke of a minimum 6 months duration, who scored ≥24 in MMSE, who can walk a minimum 6 minutes with or without a walking aid and/or orthosis were included in this study. People with visual and vestibular deficits, walking with a walking frame, and having oxygen saturation &lt; 92% were excluded from the study. It is a cross-sectional observational study. Each participant was assessed for a 10-metre walk test (10MWT) and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to assess their gait speed and gait endurance in rehabilitation setup (clinical) and footpath (community). Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient was used to see the association between clinical and community environments. Result: This study found that very high positive correlation between clinical environment and community environment speed (0.9592) and endurance (0.9772). The study observed that 43% of the participants covered more distance in the community environment than in the clinical environment. Conclusion: The study concludes that changes in gait speed and gait endurance in a clinical environment will significantly influence the gait speed and gait endurance in the community environment in persons with chronic stroke. Implications: Improvement of gait speed and endurance in a clinical environment may improve the same in a community environment.

Validating the Safe and Effective Use of a Neurorehabilitation System (InTandem) to Improve Walking in the Chronic Stroke Population: Usability Study.

Persistent walking impairment following a stroke is common. Although rehabilitative interventions exist, few exist for use at home in the chronic phase of stroke recovery. InTandem (MedRhythms, Inc) is a neurorehabilitation system intended to improve walking and community ambulation in adults with chronic stroke walking impairment. Using design best practices and human factors engineering principles, the research presented here was conducted to validate the safe and effective use of InTandem. In total, 15 participants in the chronic phase of stroke recovery (≥6 months after stroke) participated in this validation study. Participants were scored on 8 simulated use tasks, 4 knowledge assessments, and 7 comprehension assessments in a simulated home environment. The number and types of use errors, close calls, and operational difficulties were evaluated. Analyses of task performances, participant behaviors, and follow-up interviews were conducted to determine the root cause of use errors and difficulties. During this validation study, 93% (14/15) of participants were able to successfully complete the critical tasks associated with the simulated use of the InTandem system. Following simulated use task assessments, participants' knowledge and comprehension of the instructions for use and key safety information were evaluated. Overall, participants were able to find and correctly interpret information in the materials in order to answer the knowledge assessment questions. During the comprehension assessment, participants understood warning statements associated with critical tasks presented in the instructions for use. Across the entire study, 3 "use errors" and 1 "success with difficulty" were recorded. No adverse events, including slips, trips, or falls, occurred in this study. In this validation study, people in the chronic phase of stroke recovery were able to safely and effectively use InTandem in the intended use environment. This validation study contributes to the overall understanding of residual use-related risks of InTandem in consideration of the established benefits.

Sympathetic nervous system responses during complex walking tasks and community ambulation post-stroke

Stroke survivors frequently report increased perceived challenge of walking (PCW) in complex environments, restricting their daily ambulation. PCW is conventionally measured through subjective questionnaires or, more recently, through objective quantification of sympathetic nervous system activity during walking tasks. However, how these measurements of PCW reflect daily walking activity post-stroke is unknown. We aimed to compare the subjective and objective assessments of PCW in predicting home and community ambulation. In 29 participants post-stroke, we measured PCW subjectively with the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale and objectively through electrodermal activity, quantified by change in skin conductance levels (SCL) and skin conductance responses (SCR) between outdoor-complex and indoor-steady-state walking. High-PCW participants were categorized into high-change SCL (ΔSCL ≥ 1.7 μs), high-change SCR (ΔSCR ≥ 0.2 μs) and low ABC (ABC < 72%) groups, while low-PCW participants were categorized into low-change SCL (ΔSCL < 1.7 μs), low-change SCR (ΔSCR < 0.2 μs) and high-ABC (ABC ≥ 72%) groups. Number and location of daily steps were quantified with accelerometry and Global Positioning System devices. Compared to low-change SCL group, the high-change SCL group took fewer steps in home and community (p = 0.04). Neither ABC nor SCR groups differed in home or community steps/day. Objective measurement of PCW via electrodermal sensing more accurately represents home and community ambulation compared to the subjective questionnaire.

The 5-STS is a prognostic factor of sub-acute stroke patients who will not become community walkers at discharge from rehabilitation.

The recovery of community ambulation is a common concern among individuals after stroke. (1) To develop a potential readily applicable prognostic model able to correctly discriminate stroke patients who will not become independent community walkers at discharge; (2) To investigate the effects of early reassessment during the first month of treatment on the prediction accuracy of this model. This was a prospective cohort study. A consecutive sample of 80 patients at ≤60 days poststroke were assessed at baseline of outpatient physical rehabilitation and reassessed one month later. Non-functional community ambulation was measured. Seventy-four patients were followed until discharge. Of these, 47 patients were non-functional community walkers at discharge. A prediction model based on baseline performance in the five repetition sit-to-stand [5-STS] test was able to discriminate those patients of the sample (Area-under-curve = 0.956), and again with data from reassessment (AUC = 0.952). A time of 21 s at baseline was a highly prognostic cut-off point for discrimination (sensitivity = 87.2% and 85.1%). The combined use of baseline and reassessment data improved sensitivity (98.1%)CONCLUSION:Early findings of the 5-STS among stroke patients is an independent prognostic factor associated with independent community walking at discharge. It could discriminate individuals who will not become community walkers at discharge.

Peritalar Osteotomy for Rigid Pes Cavus and Cavovarus

Category: Other; Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Pes cavus and pes cavovarus deformities create varus loading during stance phase of gait that often presents as lateral ligament instability, peroneal tendon rupture or lateral column overload. When flexible, management ranges from the use of custom foot orthoses or an ankle-foot orthosis, to a combination of soft tissue releases, tendon transfer and/or corrective osteotomy. When rigid, clinical management involves corrective osteotomies or triple arthrodesis. The Ilizarov method of gradual correction of structural bony deformities provides a powerful tool to achieve a stable plantigrade foot in patients with complex multiplanar structural deformities. This investigation presents a method of a continuous multiple bone “peri-talar” osteotomy, combined with acute correction of the multiplanar deformity, for treating severe rigid structural pes cavus and pes cavovarus. Methods: Following IRB approval, patients were identified based on a combination of CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes and confirmed by chart review. Standard demographics, etiology of deformity and weight-bearing radiographs (before and after surgery) were reviewed. Perioperative complications, clinical evaluation and type of footwear used were recorded. A favorable clinical outcome was defined as a foot that is ulcer and infection-free, and able to walk in the community with standard oxford shoes. Surgical technique involved an osteotomy from the dorsal calcaneus, carried anterior and inferior for approximately fifty percent of the calcaneus, and then carried anteriorly into the mid cuboid. A second osteotomy through a separate medial incision is made from medial to lateral, splitting the navicular, and connecting to the initial lateral osteotomy. Acute correction of the multiplanar deformity is accomplished. Maintenance of the correction is then achieved with the use of an Ilizarov-like “mitre” circular external fixation construct. Results: 17 patients (three bilateral) were included, with average follow-up of 58.3 (range 12-183) months. One patient developed a postoperative wound infection that required formal surgical debridement. He died of unrelated causes before removal of the external fixator. A second postoperative wound infection was managed with local wound care. One pin-site infection required debridement following removal of the external fixator. Due to the rotational component of the deformities, meaningful measurement of deformity correction could not be accomplished. This clinical outcome was based primarily on the ability to walk without complex bracing. Sixteen of the twenty feet achieved ambulation with standard oxford footwear. Three patients required a short AFO, but were unrestricted community ambulators. A review of the non-standardized x-rays was not able to yield meaningful data. Conclusion: There have been very few clinical reports of surgical correction of patients with severe rigid pes cavovarus or equinovarus deformities. This small series of patients underwent correction of complex rigid pes cavovarus type deformities with a peritalar osteotomy, acute correction of deformity and maintenance of correction with a “mitre frame” circular external fixator. Several proponents of the Ilizarov method have described individual patients with very similar methodology. This small series of patients suggests that one can achieve an acute, or gradual, correction of complex deformity with multiple related osteotomies, and maintenance of that correction with an adjustable circular external fixator.

A mixed methods approach to investigating physical activity in people with obesity participating in a chronic care programme awaiting total knee or hip arthroplasty.

To describe patient-reported physical activity and step count trajectory and explore perceived barriers and enablers to physical activity amongst people with obesity participating in a chronic care programme whilst awaiting arthroplasty. Convergent parallel mixed-method study. A patient cohort derived from a longitudinal sample of adults with end-stage osteoarthritis and obesity from a chronic care programme whilst awaiting primary total knee or hip arthroplasty (n=97) was studied. Physical activity was measured at baseline (entry to the wait list) and before surgery (9-12months waiting time) using the Lower Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS) and activity monitors (activPAL™). A subset of participants completed in-depth semi-structured interviews 6months after being waitlisted to explore perceived barriers and enablers to physical activity. Themes were inductively derived and then interpreted through the COM-B model. Baseline LEAS and activPAL™ data were available from 97 and 63 participants, respectively. The proportion of community ambulant individuals reduced from 43% (95% CI 33%-53%) at baseline to 17% (95% CI 9%-28%) pre-surgery. Paired activPAL™ data (n=31) for step count, upright time, and stepping time remained unchanged. Twenty-five participants were interviewed. Five themes underpinning physical activity were mapped to the COM-B model components of capability (physical capability), opportunity (accessibility and social norms), and motivation (self-efficacy and beliefs and physical activity). Participation in a chronic care programme did not improve physical activity levels for people with obesity awaiting arthroplasty. Programs cognisant of the COM-B model components may be required to address the natural trajectory of declining physical activity levels while awaiting arthroplasty.

Concurrent validity of walking speed measured by a wearable sensor and a stopwatch during the 10-meter walk test in individuals with stroke

BackgroundWalking speed is often measured with a stopwatch throughout stroke recovery. Wearable sensors also have been used recently to measure walking speed and provide information about spatiotemporal characteristics of walking.Research Question:Do walking speeds measured with stopwatch and APDM wearable sensors have concurrent validity? MethodsIndividuals with chronic stroke (n = 62) performed the 10-meter walk test at comfortable and maximal speeds. Walking speeds were measured with a stopwatch and APDM Opal wireless wearable sensors (3-unit). Tests of concurrent validity between stopwatch and APDM (Bland-Altman plots, systematic and proportional bias, and intraclass correlations) and test-retest reliability between trials (intraclass correlations, standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change) were performed. ResultsWalking speeds measured with APDM were ∼0.07 m/s slower than those measured with stopwatch (systematic bias; t ≥ 13.1, p < 0.001). Intraclass correlations ranged from poor to excellent. There were greater differences in walking speeds between APDM and stopwatch for individuals with faster walking speeds (proportional bias). Test-retest reliability was excellent for both APDM and stopwatch (intraclass correlation≥0.94). Standard error of measurement ranged from 0.04 to 0.07 m/s and minimal detectable change ranged from 0.10 to 0.19 m/s.Significance:It may be inappropriate to use walking speed measurements from APDM sensors and stopwatch interchangeably in individuals with chronic stroke. Differences in walking speeds may reflect stopwatch error or the derivation of walking speed from wearable sensors. Test-retest reliability was excellent for both stopwatch and APDM, but minimal detectable change values were large. Large changes in walking speed may be required to be confident that the change is a true and clinically meaningful change and not measurement error. The validity and reliability of measuring walking speed with wearable sensors in individuals with chronic stroke has important implications for determining community ambulation, assessing improvements after rehabilitation, and developing exercise prescriptions.

Design and testing of a simple quick connect for a prosthetic liner tether.

A limitation of tether lanyards is that fastening and unfastening the tether from the liner, which needs to be performed to clean or replace the liner, is difficult for some users. The purpose of this research was to create a quick connect that allows users to easily attach and detach the tether from the liner. Mechanical testing and pilot study. A slide-and-lock mechanism was used. To operate the quick connect, the prosthesis user turns open the lock, slides it onto a short pin extending from the liner, and releases the mechanism, causing it to spring back to the locked position. Mechanical tests demonstrated that the system well-tolerated tensile loads of 25,000 cycles at 100 N and single cycles at 350 N. Five transtibial users trialed the system and took between 2 and 30 s to fasten and unfasten the quick connect. They found the quick connect intuitive to use, secure, relatively quiet, and stable. However, they preferred their traditional pin lock over the quick connect system, mainly because the quick connect required a multistep procedure (twist-align-slide) that they considered more complex than operating the locking pin to which they were accustomed. In its current form, the quick connect is likely to be used by limited community ambulators who struggle with the pin lock donning procedure. It also has potential use with powered tethers that use a motor to adjust tether length.

Multicomponent Home-based Physical Therapy Versus Usual Care for Recovery After Hip Fracture

ObjectiveTo quantify the effect of 2 home-based 16-week multi-component physical therapy interventions on functional recovery compared to usual care after hip fracture. DesignCross-study comparison using participants from the Community Ambulation Project (CAP; a randomized controlled trial) were compared to the Baltimore Hip Studies-seventh cohort (BHS-7; an observational cohort study) at 3 different time points (CAP: 15, 31, 55 weeks; BHS-7: 8, 26, and 52 weeks). SettingGeneral community ParticipantsCombined convenience sample of hip-fracture patients 8-26 weeks post admission from a prospective cohort study and randomized controlled trial. (N=549) InterventionsCAP participants were randomized to one of 2 interventions (PUSH: specific multi-component intervention; PULSE: non-specific multi-component intervention) after standard rehabilitation; BHS-7 participants received usual care. Main Outcome MeasuresMean function (as measured by Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and gait speed) was estimated in each cohort as quadratic functions of time using data from 3 post-fracture assessments in both studies (CAP: 15, 31, 55 weeks; BHS-7: 8, 26, and 52 weeks). ResultsThe harmonized samples included 101 PUSH, 100 PULSE, and 128 BHS-7 participants that had different demographic and clinical characteristics. Mean baseline SPPB scores (meters per second) were PUSH: 5.5 (SD=2.2), PULSE: 5.5 (SD=2.4), and BHS-7: 4.6 (SD=2.5); and mean gait speeds were 0.60 m/s (SD=0.20) for PUSH, 0.59 m/s (SD=0.17) for PULSE, and 0.46 m/s SD=(0.21) for BHS-7, respectively. Estimated between-group differences for SPPB improvement from 75 days to 1-year post admission were 0.7 (P=.04) in PUSH vs BHS-7; and 0.9 (P=.01) in PULSE vs BHS-7. Mean differences in change in gait speed were 0.08 (P=.002) for PUSH vs BHS-7; and 0.06 (P=.02) PULSE vs BHS-7 (P=.02). ConclusionsFindings from this cross-study comparison that combined participants from 2 separate studies, with different designs and samples, suggest that home-based multi-component physical therapy programs were associated with greater functional improvement after hip fracture compared to usual care.

Towards meaningful community ambulation in individuals post stroke through use of a smart hip exoskeleton: a preliminary investigation

ABSTRACT Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States, leaving survivors with profound mobility challenges that impact independent community ambulation. Evidence shows assistance at the hip during walking may be beneficial for stroke survivors. In this cross-over design study, we examine the impact of a novel hip exoskeleton on both functional and patient reported outcomes measuring speed, fall risk, gait symmetry, energy expenditure and perceived walking ability during both indoors and outdoors in single and serial counting dual task paradigms. Nine ambulatory stroke survivors with hemiplegia were included. No differences were seen between the exoskeleton and baseline conditions for any outcomes. Only the patient reported outcome in which subjects were asked to rate their ability to walk outdoors approached statistical significance (p = 0.051) with greater improvement reported for the exoskeleton condition. When asked to rate several key factors about the exoskeleton, weight and assistance emerged as primary perceived negative factors of the exoskeleton underscoring the need for improvements to the technology in this area. Despite lack of differences across groups, some individuals responded positively to the exoskeleton for several functional outcomes measured, highlighting the need for additional exploration into the use of personalized hip exoskeletons for post-stroke rehabilitation.

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Upper Extremity Ambulators: A Matched-Cohort Analysis.

Upper extremity ambulators (UEA) who require prolonged use of assistive devices for mobility have a high incidence of shoulder pathology secondary to increased stress across the shoulder joint with upper extremity weight bearing. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for rotator cuff arthropathy (RCA) has historically been associated with increased complications in UEA, but more recent studies have shown more promising outcomes. The objective of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes and complication rates between these two groups to define the relative risk of RSA in the UEA population and identify opportunities to improve treatment outcomes. An IRB-approved retrospective chart review was performed in patients that underwent RSA at our institution by the senior author from 2004-2019. UEA were defined as patients that used regular upper extremity assistive devices for community ambulation prior to initial consultation for the surgical extremity. Pre- and postoperative range of motion (ROM), Visual Analog Scale scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, Constant Murley scores, and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) scores were measured at defined intervals. Complications including infection, instability and need for revision surgery were also compared. All patients were followed for a minimum of two years postoperatively. A total of 159 RSA procedures (70 UEA, 89 controls) were performed during the study period. On average, UEA patients had more preoperative pain and less shoulder function than controls, with statistically significant differences in Visual Analog scores (6.897 vs. 5.532, p=0.0010) and ASES scores (33.50 vs. 40.20, p=0.0290), respectively. Despite the lower baseline values, UEA patients experienced excellent postoperative improvement, leading to similar postoperative pain and shoulder function except for a lower average forward flexion in the UEA group (126.76° vs. 135.45°, p=0.0354). Notching and complication rates were also similar between the two groups, with notching rates of 59% and 50% and complication rates of 14.3% and 13.5% in the UEA and control groups, respectively. RSA in the UEA population can achieve similar pain and functional outcomes as compared to age-matched controls without a significant increase in complication rates; however, further studies are required to assess long-term comparative outcomes in this challenging patient population.

Prophylactic Spinal Cord Untethering in Children with Spinal Dysraphism Undergoing Thoracolumbar Fusion for Scoliosis

It remains unclear whether spinal cord untethering is necessary to reduce the chances of neurologic decline in children with myelomeningocele and complex closed spinal dysraphism who undergo thoracolumbar fusion for scoliosis. We sought to determine the neurologic and functional outcomes of children with spinal dysraphism undergoing spinal fusion for scoliosis with and without prophylactic spinal cord untethering. Retrospective, single-center review of patients with spinal dysraphism treated with thoracolumbar fusion over the last 10 years (2009-2019) with or without prophylactic spinal cord untethering. Seventeen patients with myelomeningocele and complex closed spinal dysraphism underwent spinal fusion for scoliosis. Mean age at time of surgery was 13.9 years. Prophylactic spinal cord untethering was performed in 8 of 17 (47%) patients. The change in Cobb angle after surgery was similar between the 2 groups (19.4° untethered vs. 19.9° no untethering). The ambulatory status was similar between the groups, with 37% of the untethered cohort and 44% of the non-untethered cohort being community or household ambulators. There were no changes in intraoperative motor or sensory evoked potentials in any patient during fusion surgery. No patient had a change in motor level or ambulatory status after scoliosis surgery. Our data suggest that prophylactic spinal cord untethering in children with spinal dysraphism undergoing thoracolumbar fusion for scoliosis may not be necessary in patients with moderate curvatures. Our conclusions are limited by the small sample size. A larger review of registry data may yield more powerful conclusions on the necessity of prophylactic spinal cord untethering in this patient population.

Feasibility of challenging treadmill speed-dependent gait and perturbation-induced balance training in chronic stroke patients with low ambulation ability: a randomized controlled trial.

Treadmill training shows advantages in the specificity, amount, and intensity of gait and balance practice for the rehabilitation of stroke patients. To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of challenging treadmill speed-dependent gait and perturbation-induced balance training in chronic stroke patients with low ambulation ability. For this randomized controlled trial (Chinese Clinical Trials.gov registration number ChiCTR-IOR-16009536) with blinded testers, we recruited 33 ambulatory stroke participants with restricted community ambulation capacity and randomly assigned them into two groups: the experimental group with 2 week treadmill speed-dependent gait training combined with 2 week treadmill perturbation-induced balance training (EXP) or the control group with traditional gait and balance training (CON). Various variables were recorded during EXP training, including the rating of perceived exertion, heart rate, causes of pauses, treadmill speed, and perturbation intensity. Outcome measures were examined before training and at 2 and 4 weeks after training. They included gait velocity during five-meter walk test at comfortable and fast speed and reactive balance ability in the compensatory stepping test as primary outcome measures, as well as dynamic balance ability (timed up-and-go test and 5 times sit-to-stand test) and balance confidence as secondary outcome measures. All participants completed the study. The treadmill speed and perturbation intensity significantly increased across training sessions in the EXP group, and no adverse effects occurred. The normal and fast gait velocities showed significant time and group interaction effects. They significantly increased after 2 and 4 weeks of training in the EXP group (p < 0.05) but not in the CON group (p > 0.05). Likewise, dynamic balance ability measured using the timed up-and-go test at a fast speed significantly improved after 2 and 4 weeks of training in the EXP group (p < 0.05) but not in the CON group (p > 0.05), although without a significant time and group interaction effect. Surprisingly, the reactive balance ability did not show improvement after treatment in the EXP group (p > 0.05). Challenging treadmill speed-dependent gait and treadmill perturbation-induced balance training is feasible and effective to improve ambulation function in chronic stroke patients with low ambulation ability.

Physical function and activity, pain, and health status in adults with myelomeningocele after orthotic management from childhood: a descriptive study

BackgroundIndividuals with myelomeningocele (MMC) exhibit neurological deficits below the lesion level involving both motor and sensory functions. Ambulation and functional outcomes in patients offered orthotic management since childhood were investigated.MethodsPhysical function, physical activity, pain, and health status were assessed in a descriptive study.ResultsOf 59 adults with MMC, aged 18–33 years, 12 were in the community ambulation (Ca), 19 in the household ambulation (Ha), six in the non-functional (N-f), and 22 in the non-ambulation (N-a) groups. Orthoses were used by 78% (n = 46), i.e., by 10/12 in the Ca, 17/19 in the Ha, 6/6 in the N-f, and 13/22 in the N-a groups. In the ten-metre walking test, the non-orthosis group (NO) walked faster than those wearing ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) or free-articulated knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFO-Fs), the Ca group faster than the Ha and N-f groups, and the Ha group faster than the N-f group. In the six-minute walking test, the Ca group walked farther than the Ha group. In the five times sit-to-stand test, the AFO and KAFO-F groups required longer than the NO group, and the KAFO-F group longer than the foot orthosis (FO) group. Lower extremity function with orthoses was higher in the FO than the AFO and KAFO-F groups, higher in the KAFO-F than the AFO group, and higher in the AFO group than in those using trunk-hip-knee-ankle-foot orthoses. Functional independence increased with ambulatory function. Time spent in physical recreation was higher in the Ha than the Ca and N-a groups. There were no differences between the ambulation groups in rated pain or reported health status.ConclusionThe physical function results in persons with MMC improve our understanding of this population’s heterogeneity and shed light on the importance of individualized orthotic management. The similarities between the various ambulatory levels in physical activity, pain, and health status may mirror opportunities to achieve equal results regardless of disability level. A clinical implication of the study is that orthotic management is likely to be beneficial for the patient with MMC of which the majority used their orthoses for most time of the day.

Does a hip fracture mean we should we operate on a concomitant proximal humerus fracture?

Concomitant upper extremity and hip fractures present a challenge in postoperative mobilization in the geriatric population. Operative fixation of proximal humerus fractures allows for upper extremity weight bearing. This retrospective study compared outcomes between operative and non-operative proximal humerus fracture patients with concomitant hip fractures. A trauma database of 13,396 patients age > 55 years old was queried for concomitant hip and proximal humerus fracture patients between 2014-2021. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, hospital quality measures, Neer classification, morphine milligram equivalents (MME), and outcomes. All hip fractures were treated operatively. Patients were grouped based on operative vs. non-operative treatment of their proximal humerus fracture. Primary outcomes included comparing postoperative ambulatory status, pain, length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) need, discharge disposition, and readmission rates. Forty-eight patients (0.4%) met inclusion criteria. Twelve patients (25%) underwent operative treatment for their proximal humerus fracture and 36 (75%) received non-operative treatment. Patients with operative fixations were younger (p < 0.01), had more complex Neer classifications (p = 0.031), more likely to be community ambulators (p < 0.01), and required more inpatient MMEs (p < 0.01). There were no differences in LOS (p = 0.415), need for ICU (p = 0.718), discharge location (p = 0.497), 30-day readmission (p = 0.228), or 90-day readmission (p = 0.135) between cohorts. At 6months postoperatively, among community or household ambulators, a higher percentage of operative patients returned to their baseline ambulatory functional status, however, this was not significant (70% vs. 52%, p = 0.342). There were three deaths in the non-operative cohort and no deaths in the operative cohort. Patients with hip fractures and concomitant proximal humerus fractures treated operatively required more inpatient MMEs and trended toward maintaining baseline ambulatory function. There were no differences in inpatient LOS, ICU need, discharge location, or readmissions. Future larger, multicenter studies are needed to further delineate if operative repair of concomitant proximal humerus fractures provides a benefit in the geriatric population.

Rehabilitation Challenges in Orthotic Offloading with Dual Disability Involving Bilateral Lower Limbs with Right Transtibial Amputation for Charcot Joint, Left Neuropathic Foot of Hereditary Motor and Sensory Neuropathy Aetiology

Orthotic management of offloading neuropathic foot in hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN) is challenging due to motor, sensory and functional deficits which may interfere with weight distribution over the foot. The challenge further becomes difficult with the involvement of the contralateral lower limb with below-knee amputation. This study is regarding challenges in offloading, weight transmission and distribution during the stance phase of gait in the case of a 35-year-old female with a left neuropathic foot due to HMSN with concomitant right transtibial amputation. The energy expenditure and cosmetic issues for the right lower limb and aiming for maximum functional conservation of the left foot, were considered by taking into account the heel pad thickness measured by musculoskeletal ultrasound, dynamic plantar pressure measured by footplate pressure measurement, the integrity of the ankle joint mobility and stability by clinical assessment, the electrophysiological status of the neuropathic foot by nerve conduction study and the weight-bearing capability of the right below-knee stump. The following management measures are planned for effective offloading with therapeutic footwear modification with silicone gel cushion heel and insole and rocker bottom outsole as an alternative to conventional weight-relieving calliper in a government tertiary care set-up, thereby conserving the foot function and morphology. This will help in planning a structured rehabilitation programme which will be beneficial in preventing future foot changes including trophic ulceration and subsequent amputation. Case follow-up after patient education and assessment of disease progression in each visit is being done. A better outcome in terms of quality of life and level of independent ambulation with concomitant bio-functionality of the left neuropathic foot was accomplished with community ambulation.