Walking Sticks: A Tech-Savvy Approach to Safety

A Global Need

Walking aids are a big deal. Over 12% of people around the world and more than 1 million in Canada rely on them to get around. But here's the thing: not everyone knows how to use them safely. This can lead to injuries and falls.

Introducing ICanWALK

That's where the ICanWALK app comes in. It's a new mobile app designed to teach people how to fit and use walking aids properly. The app uses interactive videos to give feedback and help users learn the right techniques.

The Study Behind the App

The app is part of a study. It's a single-blind randomized controlled trial. This means that some people will use the app, while others won't. The goal is to see if the app can make a difference in how well people use their walking aids.

The study is pragmatic, which means it's designed to work in real-world settings. This makes the results more likely to apply to everyday life.

What's in a Name?

The app is called ICanWALK. It stands for Improving Canadians' Walking Aid Skills, Learning, and Knowledge. It's a mouthful, but it's a good summary of what the app does. The app is designed to be easy to use. It gives users feedback on their technique and helps them learn how to use their walking aids safely.

The Importance of the Study

The study is important. It could help a lot of people. Falls and injuries from walking aids are common. If the app can help prevent even a few of these, it will be a big deal. The study is still ongoing, so it will be a while before we know the results. But the potential is there.

Technology for Health

In the meantime, the app is a good example of how technology can be used to improve health. It's not a replacement for professional training, but it's a step in the right direction. And who knows? It might just help someone avoid a fall.