500 Section - A novel video feedback-based tool improves confidence in using walking aids: a pilot randomized controlled trial

Objectives : An estimated 305 million people using walking aids globally. Many walking aid users are not trained on how to fit or use their devices, which increases the risks of upper body pain and falls. We developed a novel video feedback and self-assessment mobile application to teach people how to use walking aids safely. This investigation aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of this tool.

Design:

A pilot single-blind randomized control trial was performed. Walking aid users were randomized to the interventional app (teaching fitting and walking with their walking aid) or an attentional control app (teaching deep breathing for stress relief and bed mobility). Both apps had the same interface. Participants in both groups used their assigned app on two occasions, 4-6 days apart. Prior to app use (T1) and 26-30 days after initial app use (T2), participants completed the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale and reported their confidence in, and comfort with, fitting and walking with their walking aid (5-point Likert scale). Descriptive statistics were performed. A 2-way repeated measures ANOVA determined the effect on ABC (α=0.05).

Results: Fifteen individuals (mean±SD age 49±19 years, 5 male) participated. Although between T1 and T2 the ABC in the intervention group improved by 13%, this did not meet statistical significance (Cohen’s d=-0.64; p=0.19). However, at T2, most people in the intervention group felt “extremely confident” (n=6/8, 75%) and “extremely comfortable” (n=7/8, 88%) in fitting their walking aid compared to the control group (n=1/7, 14%, for both confidence and comfort).

Conclusion: This novel video feedback and self-assessment mobile application that teaches walking aid skills such as fitting and assisted gait patterns increased comfort with and confidence in performing common walking aid skills. This suggests that this intervention may help patients learn or refresh knowledge on how to safely use walking aids.