FOOT IMPAIRMENTS AND LIMITATIONS IN WALKING ACTIVITIES IN PEOPLE AFFECTED BY LEPROSY

Objective: To explore the relationships between perceived limitations in walking-related daily activities, walking ability (capacity), and the amount of daily walking (performance) in persons affected by leprosy and to identify their determinants. Design: A cross-sectional study. Subjects: Thirty-nine persons affected by leprosy. Methods: Perceived limitations were assessed with the World Health Organization Disability Schedule 11, domain "getting around". Walking capacity was assessed as covered distance in 6 min. Walking performance was recorded as mean strides/day with the Stepwatch(TM) 3 Activity Monitor. Potential determinants were sensory function, foot deformities, joint mobility, ankle muscle strength and co-morbidity. Results: Perceived limitations in walking-related activities were significantly correlated with walking capacity (r=-0.47; p < 0.01) but not with walking performance, although walking capacity significantly correlated with walking performance (r=0.38; p < 0.05). Various foot impairments independently contributed to reduced walking capacity and, to a lower degree, to perceived limitations in activities and performance. Conclusion: People affected by leprosy perceive limitations in walking-related activities that are determined by a reduced walking ability and the severity of foot impairments. Since perceived limitations in walking-related activities were not related to walking performance, perceived limitations are apparently weighted against the individual's need

Leaf litter removal by the snail Terebralia palustris (Linnaeus) and sesarmid crabs in an East African mangrove forest (Gazi Bay, Kenya)

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