People With Osteoporosis Can Walk-BEST to Reduce Fall and Fracture Risk
The Walk-BEST™ study is exploring if a new walking program can help older people with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis makes bones fragile, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. This program uses a small sensor, called Heel2Toe™, and remote sessions with an exercise professional to help people walk better. We want to see if people with osteoporosis find this program useful and if it can improve their walking patterns. The study will involve groups either starting the program straight away or after a short waiting period. Participants will learn exercises, practice walking with the sensor at home, and have a few check-ups over several months to see how they're doing.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is called Walk-BEST™ and it's looking into a new way to help older people who have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that makes your bones weaker, which means you're more likely to fall and break a bone. Even if you're careful, some walking styles can actually increase your risk without you even knowing it.
The Walk-BEST™ program uses a special small sensor called Heel2Toe™ and guidance from an exercise professional. It's designed to help you improve how you walk and your balance, which could then reduce your chances of falling. This program has already shown good results in people with other conditions, and now we want to see if it can specifically help people with osteoporosis.
We want to find out if older people with osteoporosis will find this technology-assisted walking program easy to use and helpful. The aim is to gather evidence that it's a good way to help you maintain your independence and reduce the risk of fractures, making everyday life safer.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to help older people with osteoporosis walk better.
- It uses a special sensor and exercise program to reduce fall and fracture risk.
- Participation involves remote training and home practice, plus three in-person visits.
- The program focuses on improving balance and walking patterns.
- You can take part if you're 70+ and meet certain criteria related to falls or osteoporosis.
Who may be eligible?
The study is looking for people aged 70 or older who can walk on their own, even if they use a walking stick or frame. To join, you should also have experienced one of the following: a broken bone after age 40, two falls in the last year, or have been diagnosed with osteoporosis through a bone density scan. You might also be eligible if you are currently taking medication for osteoporosis or have recently had a planned break from taking a specific type of osteoporosis medication.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. You can't take part if you've broken a bone in the last year, or if you can't walk without someone else's help due to a medical condition or memory issues. Also, you need to be able to understand information and communicate in English.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 70 years of age or older?
- Can you walk on your own, possibly with a walking aid?
- Have you had a broken bone after age 40 OR two falls in the last year OR diagnosed osteoporosis?
- Are you able to speak and understand English?
- Have you NOT broken a bone in the last 12 months?
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, you'll be placed into one of two groups by chance: one group will start the Walk-BEST™ program straight away, and the other will start it after a 3-month waiting period. Everyone will eventually get to try the program.
The program includes a special workbook with exercises for strength, flexibility, and balance. You'll also have 3 to 5 online or phone sessions with an exercise professional to practice walking well and learn how to use the Heel2Toe™ sensor. There will also be two phone calls with a member of the research team for any technical help with the sensor. This intensive period lasts for the first 4 weeks.
After that, for the next two months, you'll practice on your own at home. This means walking with the sensor for at least 6 minutes, twice a day, and doing three exercises from your workbook at least twice a week. You'll also have three visits to the study centre – one at the very beginning to assess you, and then two more check-ups after 3 and 6 months to see how you're progressing. The total duration of your participation will be around 6 months.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health CentreVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition that makes your bones weak and more likely to break, even from a minor fall.
What is the Heel2Toe™ sensor?
It's a small device you wear that helps track how you walk, allowing the program to give you feedback to improve your steps.
Do I need to visit a hospital for this study?
You'll have three visits to the study centre over about six months, but a lot of the training is done remotely or at home.
Will I have to pay for anything?
No, all aspects of the study, including the sensor and professional guidance, are provided free of charge.
What if I use a walking stick?
That's perfectly fine! The study is open to people who walk with or without a walking aid.
How to find out more
Velizara Garkova, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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