Preliminary evaluation of variable compliance joystick for people with multiple sclerosis.

Upper-limb fatigue is a common problem that may restrict people with multiple sclerosis (MS) from using their electric powered wheelchair effectively and for a long period of time. The objective of this research is to evaluate whether participants with MS can drive better using a variable compliance joystick (VCJ) and customizable algorithms than with a conventional wheelchair joystick. Eleven participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups.

Beyond componentry: How principles of motor learning can enhance locomotor rehabilitation of individuals with lower limb loss--a review.

Relatively little attention has been given to the use of well-established motor learning strategies to enable individuals with lower limb loss to effectively and safely learn to walk with their prostheses in the home and community. Traditionally, such outcomes have been pursued by focusing on the design and function of a patient's prosthesis, rather than on how he or she should learn to use it. The use of motor learning strategies may enhance physical rehabilitation outcomes among individuals with lower limb loss.

Clinical evaluation of Guido robotic walker.

The Guido is a robotic walker that provides navigation and obstacle-avoidance assistance. Engineering tests have found that the device performs adequately and presents no hazard to the user. The performance of the Guido was compared with a low-tech mobility aid, the Assistive Mobility Device (AMD) developed at the Atlanta Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, in trials involving older adults with visual impairments.

Effect of a vitamin D analog on leg bone mineral density in patients with chronic spinal cord injury.

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial was performed to determine the effect of a vitamin D analog (1-alpha-hydroxyvitamin D(2) [1-alpha D(2)]) on the bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). Forty subjects with chronic complete motor SCI were enrolled. The mean plus or minus standard deviation age and duration of injury were 42 plus or minus 12 yr and 11 plus or minus 10 yr, respectively.