Impact of orthotics provision on walking energy in NMD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The impact of a hip orthosis on walking energy cost in neuromuscular disease
IRAS ID
358123
Contact name
Robert Muni-Lofra
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
Many people with neuromuscular disease experience weakness around their hips and pelvis which can affect walking, daily activities and energy levels. The severity and impact of this weakness varies from person to person, and there are only very limited treatments available. This study will look at whether a new wearable support that provides support around the hips and pelvis can have an effect on tiredness, daily activities and walking. The support has been successfully used by patients with other conditions such as stroke, but has not been used in neuro muscular diseases. The support, called an “EXOBAND” can be worn under or over clothing and can be adjusted to fit comfortably around the waist and upper thighs. What will be assessed?
• Walking efficacy and Fatigue will be assessed using a 6 minute walking test, on a flat course and then on a treadmill (set to a comfortable walking speed). Participants will be asked to wear a small face mask to measure their energy consumption when they are walking. Participants will also be asked to assess their fatigue levels when walking using a simple questionnaire. Functional Assessments – everyday activities such as rising from a chair and climbing a short flight of stairs.
• Quality of Life – a questionnaire designed especially for neuromuscular diseases will be used to look at how participants are feeling about their lives and daily activities.
• Participant views: Participants will be asked to give their views on the potential usefulness of the Exoband Device
Participants will be asked to attend for one assessment day at a central location in Newcastle. There will be regular rests scheduled into the day and all activities will be closely supervised by experienced specialist neuromuscular physiotherapists. It is hoped that this study will provide evidence to support the use of the device to improve walking ability.REC name
London - Bloomsbury Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/1239
Date of REC Opinion
22 Oct 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion