Electromyographic and Electrogoniometric Study of Stair-Climbing Using the EZ-Step and Quad-Step Devices

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to compare lower extremity muscle activity and range of motion (ROM) during stair-climbing using the EZ-Step and Quad-Step assistive devices in comparison to standard stair-climbing. Twenty-nine volunteers between the age of 65 and 88 years participated. Electromyographic (EMG) activity was recorded from the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, gluteus maximus, and gastrocnemius muscles. Electrogoniometers recorded hip and knee ROM. There was significantly less EMG activity with both the EZ-Step and Quad-Step than with standard stairs. The EZ-Step and Quad-Step required less hip ROM for stair ascent and less knee ROM for both ascent and descent as compared to standard stairs. The EZ-Step and Quad-Step devices require less muscle activity and less hip and knee ROM in elderly participants than standard stair-climbing without any assistive device. These assistive devices may be useful, when stair-climbing, for individuals who have lower extremity weakness or limited lower extremity ROM.

KEYWORDS. :

• electromyography
• gerontology
• goniometry
• range of motion
• stair-climbing