Effect of Continuous Audio Biofeedback During Postoperative Partial Weight Bearing in Older Patients—An Exploratory Study

Background/Objectives: Adherence to partial weight-bearing prescriptions (PWBP) is challenging. The use of audio biofeedback (AB) can potentially help to better implement PWBP. This study aimed to investigate the effect of continuous AB provided by sensor insoles on partial weight-bearing load during functional tasks. Methods: Twenty older patients received a single AB training for PWBP management postoperatively. The prescribed limb load was measured (ground reaction force) during four activities (walking, walking with a 5 kg backpack, sitting–standing–sitting, and standing) with force–sensor insoles with continuous AB (n = 10) or without AB (n = 10). Individual deviation from the prescribed load and the influence of age and cognitive function were analyzed. Results: The intervention group (continuous AB) managed PWBP better for three out of four activities: The relative deviation was 104.4% ± 144.2 vs. 164.5% ± 164.5 for the 5 kg backpack walk, 57.6% ± 107.2 vs. 86.8% ± 122.4 for the sit–stand–sit task, and 8.0% ± 102.3 vs. 38.8% ± 131.7 for standing. For the 3 min walking activity, the relative deviation was 127.7% ± 121.9 vs. 116.0% ± 133.0 in favor of the control group. Mean differences were not statistically significant for any of the activities. Conclusions: After a single training session with continuous AB, PWBP can only be insufficiently met. Studies with multiple training sessions seem necessary to further test the potential of continuous AB in the management of PWBP.