Overview
The overall goal of this study is to attain the highest possible health-related quality of life for individuals with lower-limb impairment through a clinical trial examining three different modern carbon fiber ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) treatment options targeting the rehabilitation of individuals post-stroke. To achieve this goal, the investigators will:
- Identify the factors that significantly contribute to an individual's highest potential quality of life when considering each of the three available AFO design options, and
- Develop prediction models of clinical performance using biomechanical function linked to the three AFO designs.
Participants will be asked to:
- Wear each of the three modern AFO designs for one month, after receiving therapy training and
- Complete questionnaires and performance tests with each AFO.
In addition, the subset of individuals participating in goal 2) will also be asked to:
- Perform biomechanical analyses using high-speed cameras and force plates during different walking and balance tests with each AFO design.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- be a minimum of three months post-stroke
- be greater than 18 years of age
- have been prescribed either a semi-rigid or a custom-made articulating AFO
- wear their prescribed AFO for all primary mobility activity outside the house
- be able to walk at least 20 meters without manual assistance
- walk at least 10 meters per minute (12% of normal velocity) during a 6-meter self-selected velocity walking test.
Exclusion Criteria:
- having a condition that could significantly limit ambulation, including severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, congestive heart failure, or pre-existing neurological disorder other than post-stroke
- having cognitive deficits that preclude their ability to provide consent for participation
- having an ankle plantar flexion contracture equal to or greater than 15 degrees plantar flexion with full knee extension