OmniWheel Clinical Test Results Summary

Study Overview

A 12-week controlled trial enrolled 124 adults aged 65 and older who used standard walkers for daily mobility. Participants were randomly assigned to continue with standard wheels or switch to the OmniWheel system. Mobility performance, fall-related events, and user satisfaction were measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks.

Key Findings

• 98.7% reduction in fall risk events (wheel-catch and tip-related) compared to standard wheels
• 12.4% faster average turning speed in hallway and doorway navigation tests
• 31% reduction in self-reported difficulty with lateral movements
• 94% of participants preferred the OmniWheel after the trial period

Test Methodology

Participants completed a standardized obstacle course that included 90-degree turns, doorway thresholds, and lateral-step maneuvers. Each session was recorded with motion-capture sensors on the walker frame and wearable accelerometers on the participant. Fall risk events were defined as instances where wheel resistance caused the walker to stall, tip, or require the user to lift and reposition the device.

Population & Safety

• Participant age range: 65 to 89 years (mean 74.3 years)
• No adverse events were reported in the OmniWheel group during the trial
• Two minor wheel-catch incidents occurred in the standard-wheel control group
• Results were consistent across indoor hard floors and low-pile carpet surfaces

Implications for Practice

These results suggest that omnidirectional wheel technology meaningfully reduces the mechanical fall risks inherent in standard fixed-wheel walkers. Healthcare providers may consider the OmniWheel system for patients who navigate tight indoor spaces, perform frequent turns, or have a history of walker-related stumbles.