Application of Smart Walker-Assisted Walking Training for Postoperative Hip Fracture Patients: An In-Hospital Outcome and Feasibility Analysis
Tu Thai Bao Nguyen, Cheng-Hsing Liu, Yu-Pin Chen, Hsiao-Yi Yang, Jia-Pei Jang, Nguyen Anh Duy Tran, Le Hoan Nguyen, Yi-Jie KuoBackground
Regaining independence in walking after hip fracture surgery is critical for improving quality of life (QoL) and reducing the risks of morbidity and mortality. Integrating advanced technologies into walking aids is an emerging trend that aims to assist patients in their rehabilitation and accelerate recovery. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a novel smart walker compared to a conventional walker in facilitating walking training and recovery for patients undergoing rehabilitation after hip fracture surgery.
Materials and Methods
This prospective cohort study included patients with hip fractures who underwent surgical treatment at our center between August 2023 and June 2024. On postoperative day 1, patients were enrolled for walking rehabilitation using either a conventional walker or a smart walker. Key outcomes were assessed before and after in-hospital training, including ambulation ability, mental status, functional independence, QoL, hip range of motion (ROM), hip muscle strength, and gait measures.
Results
32 patients with hip fractures were analyzed (mean age 81.7 years; 16 using a conventional walker, 16 using a smart walker). Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in functional and mobility outcomes during hospitalization. While discharge values were comparable between groups, the smart walker group showed greater improvements in hip ROM and ADLs, with additional gains in gait speed and stride angle that did not consistently remain significant after sensitivity analyses.
Conclusions
Early postoperative rehabilitation with a smart walker was feasible and associated with greater short-term improvements in gait performance and functional recovery during hospitalization compared with a conventional walker.