Innovative Neutronics WalkAide User manual

LM01 R9
© 2010 Innovative Neurotronics. All rights reserved. All trademarks and registered trademarks
are the property of their respective holders.

User Manual
Caution: USA Federal Law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
LM01 R9
System

3
EC REP
Medical Device & QA Services
76, Stockport Road
Timperley, Cheshire
WA15 7SN
United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]
0086

1
Table of Contents
1.0 The WalkAide Stimulator System 2
Indications of Use 3
Contraindications 3
Warnings About FES 4
WalkAide Specific Warnings 5
Precautions 6
Adverse Reactions 7
Cautions 8
2.0 Symbols and Definitions 9
3.0 WalkAide Controls and Indicators 10
4.0 General Operating Instructions 11
4.1 Applying the WalkAide 12
4.2 Removing the WalkAide 14
4.3 Skin Care 14
4.4 Instructions for Exercise Mode 15
4.5 Changing the Battery 16
4.6 Changing the Electrodes 17
5.0 Maintenance and Cleaning of the
WalkAide and Accessories 18
6.0 Troubleshooting—Frequently Asked Questions 19
7.0 Wearing Schedule 21
8.0 WalkAide User Statement of Understanding 22
9.0 Medical ID Card 23
10.0 Technical Information 24

2
1.0 The WalkAide Stimulator System
The WalkAide is a battery-operated, single channel
electrical stimulator that is used to improve walking ability. It
stimulates a foot lift at the appropriate time during
the walking cycle. A foot drop occurs when a person is unable
to actively lift the foot, resulting in the foot slapping on the
floor or the toes dragging during walking. The WalkAide stim-
ulates a nerve as it passes below the knee and activates the
muscles that raise the foot. The WalkAide Patient Kit consists
of a WalkAide Control Unit, a WalkAide cuff, and an electrode
lead cable. A foot sensor is an optional item.
Figure 1: WalkAide System

3
Indications of Use
The Innovative Neurotronics WalkAide System is a surface
functional neuromuscular stimulator system that is intended
to address foot drop in patients who have sustained
damage to upper motor neurons or pathways in the brain
or spinal cord. During the swing phase of walking, the
WalkAide electrically stimulates the appropriate nerve that
signals the ankle to dorsiflex and may thus improve the
patient’s walking ability. Medical benefits of Functional
Electrical Stimulation (FES) may include prevention of muscle
disuse or weakness, increased local blood flow, muscle
strengthening, and maintained or increased joint range of
motion.
Contraindications
l Do not use on persons with implanted demand type
cardiac pacemakers or defibrillators.
l Do not place the electrodes in the carotid sinus region
(throat). Laryngeal or pharyngeal spasms may occur
when the electrodes are placed across the throat or in
the mouth.
l Do not place the electrodes over malignant tumors.
l Do not place the electrodes over areas in which
symptoms of existing thrombosis are present.
l Do not use if person has a history of seizure disorder.

4
Warnings About FES
Monitoring Equipment—The use of FES may interfere with
the proper functioning of electronic monitoring equipment
such as EKG machines. However, the operation of the FES
device will not be affected by the use of electronic
monitoring equipment.
MRI—The WalkAide should not be worn while receiving an
MRI scan.
Electrodes—The use of electrodes not supplied by Innovative
Neurotronics may diminish results or increase risk of burns
or discomfort. Do not place electrodes over open wounds,
broken skin or metal objects beneath the skin such as
surgical staples.
Pregnancy—The safety of FES for use during pregnancy has
not been established.
Hospital Equipment—Do not use simultaneously with high
frequency hospital equipment (e.g. diathermy equipment).
It may result in burns at the site of the stimulator electrodes
and possible damage to the stimulator.
Skin Irritation—Improper or prolonged use of electrodes
may result in increased risk of skin irritation or burns and
decreased effectiveness. Infrequently, there is an allergic
response to the electrode adhesive or gel. Do not place
electrodes on skin which is already irritated as this will
increase the risk of discomfort with stimulation or skin burns
Medical Supervision—FES should only be used under the
medical supervision of a physician and a qualified clinician.
Two-Way Radios—Care should be taken while using FES
therapy in close proximity (e.g. less than 1 meter) to devices
which emit radio frequencies such as cellular phones or
two-way radios as some types of transmitters may cause
undesirable stimulation to the user.

5
Defibrillator—External defibrillation of a person wearing
a FES device can damage the device or injure the
patient even when the device is turned off. Under some
circumstances there may be risk of burns under the
electrode sites during defibrillation. To eliminate any
risk, the FES electrodes should be removed before
defibrillation paddles are applied.
Chronic Stimulation—Effects of long term chronic
stimulation are unknown in this particular application.
WalkAide Specific Warnings
Walking—Care should be taken when using the WalkAide
for people who experience dizziness or have difficulty
maintaining balance. The WalkAide is not designed to
prevent falling.
Electrodes—The user should not relocate the position of
the electrodes within the cuff. Do not use the WalkAide
without electrodes.
Placement—Never use the WalkAide on any area of the
body other than the leg.
Stimulation—Stop using the WalkAide if stimulation
does not come on at the appropriate time when walking
and/or there is a change in the sensation perceived while
the stimulation is on.
Environment—WalkAide is not intended for use within
flammable environments such as oxygen and anesthetics.
Impact—Care should be taken to minimize excessive
impact to the WalkAide Control Module. This includes
standing or kneeling on the unit, or impact from any
hard surfaces.

6
Precautions
Heart Disease—Use caution in applying electrical stimulation
to persons suspected of having heart disease. More clinical
data is needed to show that such persons will not experience
adverse results.
Sensory Deprivation—Use caution when placing electrodes
on areas of the skin with reduced response to normal
sensory stimuli, due to the risk of skin burns.
Children—FES devices should be kept out of the reach
of children.
Epilepsy—Use caution in applying electrical stimulation to
persons suspected of having epilepsy. More clinical data
is needed to show that such a person will not experience
adverse events.
Recent Surgery—Do not use FES following recent surgery
where muscle contraction may disrupt the healing process.
Electrodes—Do not use lotion or oil in the area that the
electrodes make contact with the skin. Stimulation may not
be effective.
Proper Use—The safety and efficacy of FES depends on
the proper use and handling of the FES system. Improper use
of the device or electrodes can result in injury to the patient.
Regularly check accessories for wear and replace as needed.
Electrodes should be firmly secured to the skin. Never use
the WalkAide if it appears to be malfunctioning. If there is a
change in the way it usually works (i.e. change in sensation,
surging of stimulation, intermittent stimulation) do not use
the WalkAide and contact your clinician immediately.

7
Operating Equipment—The stimulator should not be used
while operating potentially dangerous equipment such
as automobiles, power lawn mowers or large machinery.
Abrupt changes in stimulation level could create a hazard.
Sleeping—The WalkAide should not be worn or used
while sleeping or bathing.
Heat and Cold—The use of heat or cold producing devices
such as electric blankets, heating pads or ice packs may
affect the electrodes or the person’s circulation and
increase the risk of injury. A medical doctor and clinician
should be consulted before using with FES.
Caution— Do not plug foot sensor into any electrical socket
other than WalkAide.
Caution— Do not unplug foot sensor from WalkAide while
sensor is in the shoe
Adverse Reactions
Skin irritation and burns beneath the electrodes have
been reported with the use of surface functional electrical
stimulation devices. Do not leave the electrodes in place
for long periods of time without checking or cleaning the
skin underneath them. It is normal to observe somewhat
reddened areas under the electrode placements. However,
the redness should disappear within an hour. Signs of
irritation are maintained redness, small pimple-like lesions or
blisters. DO NOT continue stimulation over irritated skin.
Notify the medical doctor if these conditions persist
and discontinue use of the WalkAide until the problem
is resolved.

8
Cautions
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is the process of using
electrical stimulation to activate muscles. Basic rules of FES
use include:
1. ALWAYS use the WalkAide under the specific instruction
of an experienced clinician.
2. NEVER use the WalkAide in a situation where an
unexpected or unusual stimulus may occur, such as
driving or operating motorized equipment.
3. DO NOT use the WalkAide if the equipment is not
operating properly.
4. NEVER use the WalkAide unit with frayed or broken leads.
5. ALWAYS handle the unit carefully. DO NOT expose the
unit to water, excessive heat or vibration.
6. DO NOT place electrodes on any body part other than on
one leg below the knee, as instructed by a clinician.
7. AVOID dropping the WalkAide unit. Although robustly
designed, damage may occur that could cause the unit
to malfunction.
8. The WalkAide should ONLY be used with approved
accessories and electrodes.
9. DO NOT open the unit other than to replace the battery.
The WalkAide has no user or clinician serviceable parts
inside the control module enclosure.
10. TURN OFF the unit if sitting for an extended period of time.

9
Type BF Equipment
Indicates Error Signal
Indicates battery location and positioning
Indicates impulse, STIM button
Indicates connector location for optional
Patient Foot Sensor
Indicates input/output connector location
for WalkLink
Indicates exercise button
Important safety instructions
2.0 Symbols and Definitions

10 Figure 3: Back, side(s) and front views of WalkAide unit
Red visual indicator for error
and low battery voltage (4)
Figure 2: Top view of WalkAide unit
3.0 WalkAide Controls and Indicators
Output Connector
for Electrode Lead
Cable (7)
WalkLink Connector
[for clinician use only] (10)
Battery Compartment
for standard AA
Alkaline battery (9)
Heel and Foot Sensor
Connector
[if provided to user] (8)
Exercise Button (3)
Audible Alarms:
1. Low Battery: An audible alarm every minute with red and green blinking lights.
2. Depleted Battery: An audible alarm every 1-2 seconds with red and green blinking lights
3. Heel/Foot Sensor: An audible alarm of two beeps every two seconds indicates that Heel/Foot
Sensor is not connected, if it is configured for the Heel/Foot Sensor.
4. Device Error: An audible alarm of 4 beeps every 2 seconds.
Back Left side Right sideFront
Intensity Knob (1)
Green blinking light indicates
that power is on with
adequate battery power (2)
Amber blinking
light indicates the
presence of STIM (5)
STIM Button (6)

11
The WalkAide is designed for single-handed application
and removal (Figure 4). It may take a bit of practice to
develop a routine that works best for each person. The
WalkAide is applied directly to the leg and can be easily
worn under most clothing.
The clinician will find the optimal stimulation areas and
set up the placements of the electrodes on the initial visit.
The electrode red and black locators will be placed on the
inside of the cuff and will not need to be adjusted within
the cuff afterwards. The cuff must be positioned on the
leg correctly to achieve effective and efficient stimulation.
4.0 General Operating Instructions
Figure 4: One-handed application
Applying Tightening

12
1. The skin in the area around the head of the fibula should
be clean and free of lotions. Failure to adequately prepare
the skin may cause improper contact and provide less than
ideal stimulation.
2. Always make sure the WalkAide unit is turned OFF prior to
handling. The Intensity Knob (1) should be positioned at O.
3. Sit in a chair with the leg slightly extended.
4. a) Add a small amount of water to area where
electrodes go to improve stimulation.
4. b) Moisten the electrodes with water and place the cuff in
the correct position below the knee. The electrodes will
be on the outside of the leg and the WalkAide unit will
be on the inside of the leg just below the knee.
5. The cuff must be positioned on the leg correctly to achieve
effective and efficient stimulaton. Use the orange visual
indicator as a reference for accuracte placement of the cuff.
(Figure 5).
4.1 Applying the WalkAide
Figure 5: WalkAide and cuff

13
13
4.1 Applying the WalkAide (cont’d)
6. If a Foot Sensor was provided, place the Foot Sensor into the
shoe and plug the connector into the side of the WalkAide unit
marked .
7. Turn the WalkAide unit ON by rotating the light blue
Intensity Knob (1) in a clockwise direction. A green light
(2) will flash intermittently. You should also hear a confirmation
beep.
8. Adjust the intensity to the level determined by the clinician.
9. Check the intensity of the stimulation and quality of the foot
movement by pushing and holding the large STIM button (6)
for 1 to 2 seconds (Figure 6).
This button is labeled . The intensity level of the stimulation
or the placement of the cuff may need to be adjusted to attain
optimal foot movement. Always adjust the intensity level to the
level determined by the clinician. Higher levels of stimulation
may result in discomfort or skin irritation.
10. Stand up and walk as usual. The WalkAide can be used with or
without shoes, although proper footwear is recommended.
Figures 6: Testing the stimulation and proper placement of the WalkAide

14
4.2 Removing the WalkAide
1. Turn the WalkAide unit OFF by rotating the Intensity
Knob (1) in a counter-clockwise position until it clicks at O.
2. Release the strap buckle at the back of the leg.
3. Slowly peel the cuff away from the leg taking extra care with
the removal of the electrodes from the skin.
4. Place the plastic backings onto the electrodes.
5. Check the skin for signs of irritation.
6. For storage, place plastic backings on electrodes and then
place the cuff containing the electrodes and WalkAide unit in
a resealable plastic bag so that the electrodes do not dry out.
Keep the resealable plastic bag and unit out of direct sunlight.
The WalkAide may be worn all day but must be removed at night
before going to bed. Be sure to turn the WalkAide unit OFF to
prevent unintentional stimulation during handling and to conserve
battery power when it is not being worn.
4.3 Skin Care
Always check the skin prior to and after using the WalkAide. It is
normal to have somewhat reddened areas under the electrode
placements as this indicates increased blood flow in these areas.
Suggestions to prevent skin irritation:
l Remove electrodes GENTLY down and away from the body. Use
a drop of water to separate the electrode from the skin.
l DO NOT place electrodes over irritated areas. The clinician may
be able to suggest alternative sites.
l DO NOT place electrodes over skin coated with lotions or oils.

15
4.4 Instructions for Exercise Mode
The Exercise Mode is NOT to be used while walking. It is designed
to apply repeated stimulation to the leg while at rest for a period
of time determined by the clinician.
1. Assume a comfortable sitting position and apply the
WalkAide unit.
2. Adjust the Intensity Knob (1) and then press the Exercise
Button (3) for more than 3 seconds (Figure 7). An amber light
(5) will flash on the top of the WalkAide unit and will beep.
This will start the intermittent stimulation.
Figure 7: Using the Exercise Mode
Intensity
Knob (1) Exercise Button (3)
Amber blinking
light indicates the
presence of STIM (5)

16
3. The clinician has already programmed the duration of this
exercise session and will provide instructions on the appropriate
level of stimulation intensity, which may or may not be the same
as the intensity used for walking.
4. The WalkAide unit will stop stimulating when the programmed
exercise session is finished.
5. Turn the unit OFF.
6. After 1–2 seconds, the WalkAide can be turned on again
(automatically returning to walking mode) and the stimulation
intensity can be adjusted to the desired level for walking.
4.5 Changing the Battery
The expected battery life is about 42 hours
of continuous use. Dependent upon the
use, the batteries could last from 1 to 3
weeks. When the battery is low, the red
and green visual indicator lights will flash
and an audible alarm will sound 2 long
beeps each minute indicating that the
battery should be replaced immediately.
To replace the battery; first turn the unit
off, then grip the sides of the gray cover
to the battery compartment and pull
open (Figure 8). The WalkAide requires a single
alkaline AA battery to operate. DO NOT use
rechargeable or other types of batteries.
When the alkaline battery becomes depleted, please dispose
of the battery properly in accordance with all local and
national regulations.
Figure 8:
Changing the battery
Red visual indicators
for low battery (4)
Green visual indicator
for low battery (2)

17
Figures 9 and 10: Changing the electrodes (inside and outside views)
4.6 Changing the Electrodes
For proper skincare and maximum effectiveness, the elec-
trodes should be replaced every 1 to 2 weeks. Pull back the
WalkAide attachment strap to uncover the electrode lead cables.
Disconnect the black and red leads between he WalkAide and
the electrodes. Remove the electrodes from the Electrode
Locators. Place the new electrodes on the Electrode locators
and feed the leads through the holes toward the outside of the
cuff. The BLACK lead is connected to the Electrode on the Black
Electrode Locator. The RED lead is connected to the electrode
on the Red Electrode Locator. Feed the excess wires in the strap
pouch as indicated in the image below.
Connect the leads from the electrodes to the WalkAide
Electrode Lead Cable (Figure 10).
l The BLACK lead is connected to the BACK electrode.
l The RED lead is connected to the FRONT electrode.