Implementation of an App-based Walking Aid Skills Training Program
This research is testing a new smartphone app called 'ICanWALK' for people who rely on walking aids such as crutches, canes, or walkers. Many people don't use these aids quite right, which can lead to discomfort, pain, or even serious falls. The 'ICanWALK' app is designed to teach users how to properly fit and use their walking aids, making them feel more confident and stable. The study will compare people using this walking aid app with those using a breathing exercises app, to see if 'ICanWALK' helps improve balance, reduce pain, and prevent falls. Researchers also want to see if the app is easy and helpful to use.
At a glance
What is this study about?
If you use walking aids like crutches, a cane, or a walker, you know they're great for helping you move around. But sometimes, people don't quite get the hang of using them correctly. This can lead to aches and pains in other parts of the body, or even increase the chance of tripping and falling. Falls can be serious, so it's really important to use your walking aid safely and effectively.
This study is looking at a new smartphone app called 'ICanWALK'. It's designed to be like a helpful guide in your pocket, teaching you how to properly adjust your walking aid and use it in different situations – like on uneven ground or going up stairs. The goal is to see if learning through this app can make you feel more confident on your feet, improve your balance, and help prevent those worrying falls.
Researchers will compare people using the 'ICanWALK' app with another group using an app designed for breathing exercises. Both groups will watch instructional videos and record themselves practicing. This helps the researchers understand if the walking aid app specifically makes a difference to things like balance confidence, how well people move, and if they experience less pain or fewer falls. They will also be asking people what they think about the app and how easy it is to use.
Key takeaways
- A study looking at a new app to improve walking aid use.
- Aims to boost balance confidence, reduce falls, and lessen pain.
- Compares a walking aid app to a breathing exercise app.
- Participation involves using an app and recording practice videos for 4 weeks.
- Suitable for adults who regularly use walking aids.
- Could help make walking aid use safer and more effective.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 99 years old and currently use a walking aid for most of the time you're up and about (more than three-quarters of your walking time).
However, you wouldn't be able to join if you use a wheelchair for more than a quarter of your walking time. Also, if you have severe issues with your memory, eyesight, or understanding that would make it hard to use a smartphone app, this study might not be right for you. You also need to be able to comfortably speak either English or French to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 99 years old?
- Do you use a walking aid (like crutches, a cane, or a walker) for most of your walking time?
- Can you comfortably speak English or French?
- Do you not rely on a wheelchair for most of your movement?
- Do you feel you can use a smartphone app without significant difficulty?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will use the 'ICanWALK' app, which focuses on walking aid skills. The other group will use an app that teaches breathing exercises. Both apps will be available through a platform called Move Improve®.
Your participation will involve watching instructional videos on your assigned app and recording short, secure videos of yourself practicing the skills. These recordings help the researchers see how you're doing. You'll have assessments at the very beginning of the study and again four weeks later. These assessments will check things like your balance, how far you can walk, and how confident you feel when moving around. The study involves interacting with the app over four weeks, and your overall commitment will include these initial and final assessments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Foothills Medical CentreVerified postcodeCalgary, Canada· Recruiting
- CIRRISVerified postcodeQuébec, Canada· Completed
Common questions
What kind of walking aids are included?
This study looks at general walking aids like crutches, canes, and walkers.
Do I need my own smartphone?
The study involves using a smartphone app, so you'd need access to a smartphone to participate effectively.
How long will I be using the app?
You'll be using the assigned app and practicing skills for a period of four weeks.
What if I have trouble with technology?
The study aims to assess ease of use, but significant difficulty with apps might make participation challenging. Researchers can discuss this with you.
Will my information be kept private?
Yes, all your personal information and any videos you record will be kept secure and private by the research team.
How to find out more
Ranita Manocha, MD, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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