THE USE OF AN ADVANCED RECIPROCATING GAIT ORTHOSIS BY PARAPLEGIC INDIVIDUALS - A FOLLOW-UP-STUDY

This article describes the results of a follow-up study of 14 parapleg ic individuals who were fitted with the ARGO (Advanced Reciprocating G ait Orthosis -STEEPER) at least 1 year previously. It was found that 85% were still using the apparatus on a regular basis. The general sat isfaction of the users was high, although the functional use was limit ed. Therapeutic reasons appeared to be the main reason for wearing the ARGO. The points that were most appreciated were the psychological an d physiological benefits of standing and walking. Discussion with the users who were paraplegic provided valuable information concerning pos sible technical improvements to the ARGO.