Analysis of human abnormal walking using a multi-body model: joint models for abnormal walking and walking aids to reduce compensatory action.
This paper proposes new models of diseased joints and evaluates the effectiveness of walking aids such as a cane and a brace for compensating for lost functions due to joint disorders. The ZMJ concept described in the previous work (Yamashita and Tagawa, 1988. In: Radharaman (Ed.), Robotics and Factories of the Future'87. Springer, New York, pp. 670-677) is modified into three joint models as follows: a passive element joint (PEJ) which has a spring at the diseased joint; a constrained range joint (CRJ), the motion of which stays within some constrained relative angle; a partial moment joint (PMJ) which can produce a partial amount of the moment produced about the joint in normal walking. A cane can enlarge a supporting area and adjust the posture of the upper torso to be upright. An ischial weight-bearing brace is effective for conservative management of hip disorders by reducing a load to the joint (Shiba et al., 1998. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research 351, 149-157). Walking aids like a cane or brace have been conveniently used by the handicapped. Abnormal walking was simulated for each joint model. Dynamic effects of a cane and a brace on abnormal walking were examined by the multi-body walking model.
Tagawa
Y
Y
Kurume Institute of Technology, Kamitsu, 830-0052, Kurume, Japan.
Shiba
N
N
Matsuo
S
S
Yamashita
T
T
D000843:Ankle Joint / Q000503:physiopathology; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001915:Braces; D002183:Canes; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000503:physiopathology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology*