Hemi-neglect, Executive Function Disorders and Wheeleo®

This patient presents with left hemiplegia following a stroke, with several associated disorders: hemi-neglect, executive function disorders, sensory disorders, and dysarthria. Despite several months of rehabilitation, these impairments remain present and have a significant impact on his walking ability.

Disorganized Gait with the Quad Cane

The use of a quad cane does not allow him to regain functional walking. It even generates new difficulties:

• He frequently takes several steps without moving the cane, breaking the coordination between supports.
• The cane is poorly positioned: too far forward, too lateral, or placed between the two feet, which further disorganizes his gait.
• All his attention is absorbed by managing the assistive device, heavily mobilizing his right side and accentuating the left hemi-neglect. He then perceives his environment less well.

Why Wheeleo® Improves His Gait

The introduction of the Wheeleo®, a one-handed walker, immediately modifies several parameters of his locomotion:

• Reduced attentional load: unlike the cane, the Wheeleo® is used more intuitively. It rolls without having to be lifted, which frees up cognitive capacity and improves attention to the environment.
• More fluid and stable gait: even if autonomy is not yet achieved, his gait pattern quickly becomes more organized, with better rhythm and coordination.
• Improved comfort: for the patient, handling is easier; for the caregiver, movements are safer and simpler to manage.

A Solution Adapted to the Complexity of Strokes

For patients with complex neurological impairment, the Wheeleo® doesn’t just support walking: it acts as a motor organization facilitator. It doesn’t correct associated disorders, but it compensates for some of their side effects, which globally improves the quality of gait and care.