People With Osteoporosis Can Walk-BEST to Reduce Fall and Fracture Risk

The Walk‐BEST™ technology assisted gait optimization program has demonstratedeffectiveness in improving gait pattern and walking capacity without adverse events inpeople living with Parkinson's and Multiple Sclerosis. What is not known and the topic ofthis pilot and feasibility study is whether older people with osteoporosis will engagesuccessfully with this program, since they do not have a diagnosis of a disablingcondition affecting gait and may be unaware that their cautious method of walking exposesthem to higher risk of falls and fractures rather than protecting them.A randomized pilot and feasibility study (PAFS) will be conducted with groups randomizedin a 1:1 ratio. Participants will be randomly assigned to either 1) immediate receipt ofthe Walk‐BEST™ program; or 2) wait‐list control and delayed receipt of Walk‐BEST™ program3 months post‐randomization.Participants will receive a copy of a proprietary workbook with instructions on simpleexercises targeting strength, flexibility, and balance to facilitate a better walkingpattern, as well as both 3‐5 remote sessions with an exercise professional to practicewalking well and to learn how to use the Heel2ToeTM sensor, and two technology phonecalls with a research team member, over the first 4 weeks of the intervention. Thispersonal gait training period will be followed by independent home practice over 2months, during which participants will be instructed to practice walking with the sensorfor a minimum period of 6 min, twice a day and to complete three exercises from theirworkbook at least twice a week.There will be three on‐site study visits at 3‐month intervals: one for initialassessment, and two for reassessment.