1. Understanding Functional Impairments Related to CMT
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is a progressive hereditary peripheral neuropathy. It affects motor and sensory nerves, leading to characteristic symptoms such as:
- Distal muscle weakness, particularly in the foot and leg, which can cause foot drop and a steppage gait.
- Muscle atrophy (calves, forearms) and foot deformities (pes cavus, claw toes).
- Loss of sensation (touch, temperature) with balance disorders.
- Pain related to walking, increased fatigue, reduced walking speed, and frequent falls.
Studies show that CMT patients, especially young ones, walk more slowly and exhibit altered ankle oscillation, affecting the swing phase of the foot and propulsion.
2. Daily Functional Consequences
The combination of the above symptoms leads to:
- Unstable and tiring gait, with an increased risk of falls on uneven terrain.
- Loss of autonomy, even for short distances.
- Frequent reliance on walking aids (cane, orthosis, rollator…).
3. What Wheeleo® Offers
The Wheeleo® is an innovative four-wheeled walking aid, usable with one hand, that:
- Remains constantly in contact with the ground: easy movement without lifting effort.
- Offers superior dynamic stability, thanks to its four support points and compact design.
- Allows for a fluid gait, without the rhythmic interruption typical of traditional canes.
- Reduces effort and physical fatigue, as less energy is spent supporting and probing the device with each step.
- Frees up one hand, which facilitates daily actions (opening a door, carrying a bag…).
3.1. How this Solution is Relevant for CMT
- The dynamic stability offered by Wheeleo® can provide security for patients facing foot drop and postural instability, reducing the fear of falling.
- It supports the walking phase, maintaining a natural movement and reducing overload during walking.
- Its maneuverability allows for delaying the use of a rollator or wheelchair in cases of slow disease progression.
- Compatible with ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) often prescribed for CMT: Wheeleo® enhances their effectiveness while maintaining a fluid gait.
4. Conclusion
CMT profoundly affects walking due to muscle weakness, instability, and pain. Wheeleo® stands out as an innovative aid, suitable for:
- Stabilizing gait.
- Alleviating fatigue and effort.
- Maintaining autonomy in movement.
- Increasing confidence when facing obstacles and uneven surfaces.
The use of Wheeleo® is therefore considered a relevant solution for people with CMT seeking to maintain mobility, comfort, and independence.
