Abstract
The purpose of this study was to clarify how the height, grip and manipulation of the IV pole while walking, affected the gait of people middle-aged and older.
This study conducted a kinematic analysis and subjective assessment to examine the impact of walking with an IV pole on gait by observing 8 healthy men and 33 healthy women (total =41) ages 60 to 70 (M = 66.3, SD2.3). The study also examined IV pole height and the height of the pole grips to achieve a safer and more appropriate utilization.
Results showed that compared to normal walking, when walking with the IV pole, speed was slowed, stride length was shortened, pace was impeded, and the angle of the arm swing was reduced so that the gait resembles that of older persons and persons who had experienced a fall. When the height of the pole was 110% of a user's height and the pole grasps were positioned at 60% or 70% of a user's height then using the IV pole had minimal negative influence on gait and walking posture. Moreover, subjects reported subjectively, that fewer physical burdens were experienced, thus confirming researchers kinematic analysis. In conclusion, typical IV pole use on gait resembles that of older persons and persons who have experienced a fall. This study suggested that a desirable height for the pole was 110% of a user's height and the pole grasps were positioned at 60% or 70% of a user's height.
