Gait training using the Honda Walking Assist Device® for individuals with transfemoral amputation: A report of two cases

BACKGROUND: Independent walking is important for individuals who have undergone lower limb amputation. Recently, robot-assisted gait training has been widely used for individuals with abnormal gait. However, no study has evaluated the effect of the Honda Walking Assist Device(R) (HWA) on the gait of patients who have undergone transfemoral (TF) amputation. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the safety, feasibility, and effect of gait training using the HWA for individuals who underwent lower limb amputation. METHODS: This study included two elderly patients who underwent TF amputation due to a nontraumatic reason. Gait training interventions using the HWA were performed for a week (5 training sessions). Self-selected walking speed (SWS), step length, cadence, hip kinematic parameters, and symmetricity of single support time ratios during SWS were measured before and after the HWA interventions. RESULTS: SWS, step length, cadence, and hip angle range improved after the HWA interventions in both patients. Symmetricity of single support time ratios and maximum hip extension angle improved in patient 1, but not in patient 2. There were no adverse events in either patient. CONCLUSIONS: Gait training using the HWA was safe and effective for improving the gait of two TF amputees.