Real-Time Biofeedback on Partial Weightbearing Training

Partial weightbearing is an essential aspect of rehabilitation for many orthopedic patients, as it promotes healing and helps prevent complications after injury or surgery. Traditionally, patients receive instructions and guidance from healthcare professionals to achieve appropriate weightbearing levels. However, accurately gauging one's weightbearing status can be challenging without proper feedback.

Recent literature has investigated the use of biofeedback devices in training patients for partial weightbearing, demonstrating their potential in improving compliance and learning. However, to date, no studies have directly compared the effectiveness of biofeedback devices, such as Loadsol, with the standard of care (SOC) in terms of the time required for patients to learn and comply with partial weightbearing restrictions.

Furthermore, existing research has focused on orthopedic patients, who may be subject to various confounding factors such as pain, different fracture patterns, and surgical interventions. No studies have yet explored the use of biofeedback devices in training healthy subjects for partial weightbearing, which could provide valuable insights without the influence of these confounders.

In addition, the Loadsol device has been compared to other devices, such as treadmills and force plates, in terms of measurement quality. Studies have suggested that the Loadsol device provides comparable results, supporting its reliability and potential effectiveness in partial weightbearing training.

This study aims to fill the gap in the literature by comparing the Loadsol biofeedback device with the standard of care in training healthy subjects for partial weightbearing. By evaluating the time taken to learn and comply with weightbearing restrictions, compliance with weightbearing limitations, and subject satisfaction, this research seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of using a biofeedback device in partial weightbearing training.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged between 18 and 60 years old.
• Healthy and able to walk unassisted.
• No cognitive impairments.
• Willing to participate in the study.
• Capable of using crutches.
• English- speaking.

Exclusion criteria

• Unwilling to participate in the study.
• Sensor incompatibility: shoe sizes smaller than EU 36 (Womens size 4, Men's size 6) or larger than EU 44 (Women's size 13, Men's size 11).
• Non-English speaking.
• Pregnant women must not take part in this study, due to a higher chance of injury in the unlikely event of a fall.
• >7 on Six-Item Cognitive Impairment Test