Design Of Ankle Foot Orthosis Research Articles

Tuning the mechanical responses of 3D-printed ankle-foot orthoses: A numerical study

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are frequently prescribed for children with cerebral palsy (CP) to correct specific features of abnormal gait. However, traditional AFO manufacturing and design involve labor-intensive processes and rely on subjective evaluations of clinicians. Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) printing allow the rapid prototyping of AFOs, but the expanded design options complicate decision-making. This study aims to evaluate how AFO design affects the mechanical responses of 3D-printed AFOs. The lower limb geometry is established by a 3D-scanning system, and a prototypical AFO is designed, 3D printed, and tested under compression. A parametric study on the effect of base materials, thickness, and trimline location is conducted based on a validated numerical model. The results reveal that AFOs exhibit distinct behaviors under plantarflexion and dorsiflexion motions, with AFO stiffness correlating to thickness through a power function. AFO stiffness is more sensitive to posterior trim depth than inferior, while both trim depths significantly influence stress concentration around the ankle region. This investigation demonstrates the potential of combining 3D printing and computational modeling to improve the design and fabrication process of AFOs, providing insights into the development and customization of 3D-printed AFOs.

Effects of trimline cut in ankle foot orthosis: An experimental and finite element analysis

An Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a structure that spans from the lower leg to the foot and controls ankle joint movement. It prevents or assists the human body's lower leg and foot in replicating a normal human gait. The purpose of AFO is to achieve a stable gait by controlling the musculoskeletal system adequately. The mechanical features of AFO stiffness will play an essential role in helping gait, if this stiffness is not matching to the patient's conditions, gait will decrease and knee joint motion will be compromised. In general, trimline cut were introduced in the AFO medial and lateral side to control the stiffness of orthosis. However, this will result in stress concentration in the ankle region and lead to failure of AFO. In this study first evaluate the effects of trimline cut in AFOs using finite element analysis with three geometrical shapes like circle, elliptical and slot were introduced on the dorsal side. The stress concentration and stiffness of AFOs in the ankle region were computed. The stiffness of the basic model and trimline cut AFO model were compared and found elliptical trimline cut model is optimum one. The experimental analysis was performed using 3D Printed AFOs and calculated stiffness. It was observed that finite element analysis results, stress concentration of trimline cut models were reduced maximum of 2 % with basic model (without trimline cut)., whereas, in the experimental study of 3D-Printed AFO of trimline cut model, stiffness were reduced around 16 % compared with basic models. This study clearly indicates that, geometrical shapes trimline cut influencing on stiffness of AFOs. It will give the insight's for orthosis designers to make custom design of AFOs in particularly foot drop conditions to optimized the stiffness of orthosis.

Innovative Design and Development of Personalized Ankle-Foot Orthoses for Survivors of Stroke With Equinovarus Foot: Protocol for a Feasibility and Comparative Trial.

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are vital in gait rehabilitation for patients with stroke. However, many conventional AFO designs may not offer the required precision for optimized patient outcomes. With the advent of 3D scanning and printing technology, there is potential for more individualized AFO solutions, aiming to enhance the rehabilitative process. This nonrandomized trial seeks to introduce and validate a novel system for AFO design tailored to patients with stroke. By leveraging the capabilities of 3D scanning and bespoke software solutions, the aim is to produce orthoses that might surpass conventional designs in terms of biomechanical effectiveness and patient satisfaction. A distinctive 3D scanner, complemented by specialized software, will be developed to accurately capture the biomechanical data of leg movements during gait in patients with stroke. The acquired data will subsequently guide the creation of patient-specific AFO designs. These personalized orthoses will be provided to participants, and their efficacy will be compared with traditional AFO models. The qualitative dimensions of this experience will be evaluated using the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction With Assistive Technology (QUEST) assessment tool. Feedback from health care professionals and the participants will be considered throughout the trial to ensure a rounded understanding of the system's implications. Spatial-temporal parameters will be statistically compared using paired t tests to determine significant differences between walking with the personalized orthosis, the existing orthosis, and barefoot conditions. Significant differences will be identified based on P values, with P<.05 indicating statistical significance. The Statistical Parametric Mapping method will be applied to graphically compare kinematic and kinetic data across the entire gait cycle. QUEST responses will undergo statistical analysis to evaluate patient satisfaction, with scores ranging from 1 (not satisfied) to 5 (very satisfied). Satisfaction scores will be presented as mean and SD values. Significant variations in satisfaction levels between the personalized and existing orthosis will be assessed using a Wilcoxon signed rank test. The anticipation is that the AFOs crafted through this innovative system will either match or outperform existing orthoses in use, with higher patient satisfaction rates. Embracing the synergy of technology and biomechanics may hold the key to revolutionizing orthotic design, with the potential to set new standards in patient-centered orthotic solutions. However, as with all innovations, a balanced approach, considering both the technological possibilities and individual patient needs, will be paramount to achieving optimal outcomes. PRR1-10.2196/52365.

An Overview of Mathematical Methods Applied in the Biomechanics of Foot and Ankle–Foot Orthosis Models

Ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) constitute medical instruments designed for patients exhibiting pathological gait patterns, notably stemming from conditions such as stroke, with the primary objective of providing support and facilitating rehabilitation. The present research endeavors to conduct a comprehensive review of extant scholarly literature focusing on mathematical techniques employed for the examination of AFO models. The overarching aim is to gain deeper insights into the biomechanical intricacies underlying these ankle–foot orthosis models from a mathematical perspective, while concurrently aiming to advance novel models within the domain. Utilizing a specified set of keywords and their configurations, a systematic search was conducted across notable academic databases, including ISI Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed. Subsequently, a total of 23 articles were meticulously selected for in-depth review. These scholarly contributions collectively shed light on the utilization of nonlinear optimization techniques within the context of ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs), specifically within the framework of fully Cartesian coordinates, encompassing both kinematic and dynamic dimensions. Furthermore, an exploration of a two-degree-of-freedom AFO design tailored for robotic rehabilitation, which takes into account the interplay between foot and orthosis models, is delineated. Notably, the review article underscores the incorporation of shape memory alloy (SMA) elements in AFOs and overviews the constitutive elastic, viscoelastic, and hyperelastic models. This comprehensive synthesis of research findings stands to provide valuable insights for orthotists and engineers, enabling them to gain a mathematical understanding of the biomechanical principles underpinning AFO models and fostering the development of innovative AFO designs.

Ankle dorsiflexion assistance of patients with foot drop using a powered ankle-foot orthosis to improve the gait asymmetry

BackgroundFoot drop is a neuromuscular disorder that causes abnormal gait patterns. This study developed a pneumatically powered ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) to improve the gait patterns of patients with foot drop. We hypothesized that providing unilateral ankle dorsiflexion assistance during the swing phase would improve the kinematics and spatiotemporal gait parameters of such patients. Accordingly, this study aims to examine the efficacy of the proposed assistance system using a strategy for joint kinematics and spatiotemporal gait parameters (stride length, swing velocity, and stance phase ratio). The analysis results are expected to provide knowledge for better design and control of AFOs in patients with foot drop.MethodTen foot drop patients with hemiparesis (54.8 y ± 14.1 y) were fitted with a custom AFO with an adjustable calf brace and portable air compressor for ankle dorsiflexion assistance in the gait cycle during the swing phase. All subjects walked under two different conditions without extensive practice: (1) barefoot and (2) wearing a powered AFO. Under each condition, the patients walked back and forth on a 9-m track with ten laps of level ground under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. The lower-limb joint and trunk kinematics were acquired using 12 motion-capture cameras.ResultsWe found that kinematic asymmetry decreased in the three lower-limb joints after ankle dorsiflexion assistance during the swing phase. The average ankle-joint angle increased after using the AFO during the entire gait cycle. Similarly, the knee-joint angle showed a slight increase while using the AFO, leading to a significantly decreased standard deviation within patients. Conversely, the hip-joint angle showed no significant improvements with assistance. While several patients exhibited noticeably lower levels of asymmetry, no significant changes were observed in the average asymmetry of the swing velocity difference between the affected and unaffected sides while using the AFO.ConclusionWe experimentally validated that ankle dorsiflexion assistance during the swing phase temporarily improves gait asymmetry in foot-drop patients. The experimental results also prove the efficacy of the developed AFO for gait assistance in foot-drop patients.

Design and mechanical testing of an adjustable posterior leaf spring ankle-foot orthosis for patients with drop foot.

This study aimed to design an adjustable posterior leaf spring (PLS) ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) with an affordable material in low-income countries and investigate the mechanical properties between an adjustable PLS AFO and a standard PLS AFO. Static and dynamic mechanical testing. This study preliminarily tested a new adjustable PLS AFO against a standard PLS AFO. Each AFO design was tested with mechanical testing using an Instron 8801 universal testing machine. The stiffness value of the adjustable PLS AFO was greater than that of the standard PLS AFO during the static loading test. The energy dissipated ratios were lower in the adjustable PLS AFO than in the standard PLS AFO. After 110,000 cycles of fatigue testing, the distal rivet of the adjustable PLS AFO became loose, although the standard PLS AFO had no problem. The novel adjustable PLS AFO achieved noninferior mechanical properties except fatigue strength. The connecting area always initiated fatigue failure. It is suggested that this area must be prevented for stress concentration. As a preliminary study, this study is fundamental for future studies.

"That's frustrating": Perceptions of ankle foot orthosis provision, use, and needs among people with cerebral palsy and caregivers.

Cerebral palsy (CP) affects roughly 3 per 1000 births in the United States and is the most common pediatric developmental motor disability. Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly prescribed to provide support and improve function for individuals with CP. The study objective was to evaluate the lived experiences of individuals with CP and their caregivers regarding AFO access, use, and priorities. We examined experiences around the perceived purpose of AFOs, provision process, current barriers to use, and ideas for future AFO design. Secondary qualitative data analysis. Secondary data analysis was performed on semistructured focus groups that included 68 individuals with CP and 74 caregivers. Of the focus group participants, 66 mentioned AFOs (16 individuals with CP and 50 caregivers). Deidentified transcripts were analyzed using inductive coding, and the codes were consolidated into themes. Four themes emerged: 1) AFO provision is a confusing and lengthy process, 2) participants want more information during AFO provision, 3) AFOs are uncomfortable and difficult to use, and 4) AFOs can benefit mobility and independence. Caregivers and individuals with CP recommended ideas such as 3D printing orthoses and education for caregivers on design choices to improve AFO design and provision. Individuals with CP and their caregivers found the AFO provision process frustrating but highlight that AFOs support mobility and participation. Further opportunities exist to support function and participation of people with CP by streamlining AFO provision processes, creating educational materials, and improving AFO design for comfort and ease of use.

Carbon fiber ankle-foot orthoses in impaired populations: A systematic review.

Carbon fiber is increasingly being used in ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs). Orthotic devices and carbon fiber-containing devices have been shown to reduce pain and improve function in multiple patient populations. Although the number of publications and interest in carbon fiber AFOs is growing, a systematic evaluation of their effects is lacking. To characterize the effects of carbon fiber AFOs in impaired individuals. Qualitative systematic review. Systematic searches in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library were completed in July 2020. The results were deduplicated, screened, and assessed for quality by independent reviewers. Articles were excluded if they had nonhuman subjects, only healthy subjects, or included active control systems, motors, or other power sources. Seventy-eight articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Most articles were of low to moderate methodological quality. Five commonly used devices were identified: the Intrepid Dynamic Exoskeletal Orthosis, ToeOff, WalkOn, Neuro Swing, and Chignon. The devices have unique designs and are associated with specific populations. The Intrepid Dynamic Exoskeletal Orthosis was used in individuals with lower-limb trauma, the Neuro Swing and ToeOff in individuals with neurological disorders, the Chignon in individuals with hemiplegia and stroke, and the WalkOn in people with hemiplegia and cerebral palsy. Each device produced favorable outcomes in their respective populations of interest, such as increased walking speed, reduced pain, or improved balance. The mechanical characteristics and designs of carbon fiber AFOs improve outcomes in the populations in which they are most studied. Future literature should diligently report patient population, device used, and fitting procedures.

Computational modelling of ankle-foot orthosis to evaluate spatially asymmetric structural stiffness: Importance of geometric nonlinearity.

An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) constructed as a single piece of isotropic elastic material is a commonly used assistive device that provides stability to the ankle joint of patients with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. The AFO has asymmetric stiffness that restricts plantarflexion during the swing phase while it is flexible to allow dorsiflexion during the stance phase with a large deflection, including buckling originating from geometric nonlinearity. However, its mechanical implications have not been sufficiently investigated. This study aims to develop a computational model of an AFO considering geometric nonlinearity and examine AFO stiffness asymmetry during plantarflexion and dorsiflexion using physical experiments. Three-dimensional AFO mechanics with geometric nonlinearities were expressed using corotational triangle-element formulations that obeyed Kirchhoff-Love plate theory. Computational load tests for plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, using idealised AFOs with two different ankle-region designs (covering or not covering the apexes of the malleoli), showed that plantarflexion moment-ankle angle relationships were linear and dorsiflexion moment-ankle angle relationships were nonlinear; increases in dorsiflexion led to negative apparent stiffness of the AFO. Both ankle-region designs resisted both plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, and out-of-plane elastic energy was locally concentrated on the lateral side, resulting in large deflections during dorsiflexion. These findings give insight into appropriate AFO design from a mechanical viewpoint by characterising three-dimensional structural asymmetry and geometric nonlinearity.

Prescription practices for rigid ankle-foot orthoses among UK orthotists.

The purpose of this study was to investigate rigid ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) prescription practices for adult men among UK orthotists. A cross-sectional study using a survey was distributed online to UK orthotists by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists to its members and through social media and orthotic networks. The survey was completed between November 1, 2020, and November 29, 2020. Descriptive statistics of survey results include information related to the material used, the thickness of the material, positive cast rectification, AFO reinforcement, footplate design, padding, strapping system, and height of AFO. One hundred participants completed the survey, which equates to a response rate of 30.5% of the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists members targeted. A clear consensus emerged on the design of a bespoke rigid AFO for the hypothetical patient in this study, which is detailed as follows: 1) 4.5 mm copolymer polypropylene, 2) no additional reinforcement, 3) full-length footplate with mediolateral trimlines terminating behind the metatarsal heads, 4) 3-point correction with parallel sides, 5) padded VELCRO straps with D-rings at the calf and heel, 6) no forefoot or other additional strapping, 7) 3-mm PORON (international Ltd) padding at the malleoli, and 8) AFO height that finishes 2 cm below the fibular head. This study has highlighted a consensus on AFO prescription/design among UK orthotists surveyed, based on the hypothetical patient described in this study.

Standardised classification system for bespoke thermoplastic ankle foot orthoses

PurposeTo validate a new classification system for bespoke thermoplastic ankle foot orthoses (AFOs). MethodsInter- and intra-observer reliability study. A classification system based on the design and function of AFOs was created. Sixty-three independent observers classified thirty-six photographs of different AFOs, according to the proposed classification system via an online questionnaire. Approximately two weeks later, the same AFOs were classified again by fifty-three of the same participants. All participants were health care professionals, researchers, or technicians with experience in referring for, prescribing, fitting, reviewing, researching or manufacturing AFOs. ResultsThe mean inter- and intra-observer agreement Fleiss’ kappa was 0.932 and 0.944, respectively. 98.3% of participants reported that the classification system was very easy or moderately easy to use, with 85.7% reporting they would use the classification system. 90.5% of participants reported that the proposed AFO classification system was clear, with 84% stating it was useful. ConclusionThe proposed classification system for bespoke thermoplastic AFOs, has an excellent inter- and intra-observer agreement. It will reduce the ambiguity of the description of the type of AFOs used in clinical practice and research. Furthermore, it makes reproducible comparisons between groups possible, which are essential for future evaluations of evidence-based orthotic care.

Comparison of Deep Neural Network Models and Effectiveness of EMG Signal Feature Value for Estimating Dorsiflexion

Robotic ankle–foot orthoses (AFO) are often used for gait rehabilitation. Our research focuses on the design and development of a robotic AFO with minimum number of sensor inputs. However, this leads to degradation of gait estimation accuracy. To prevent degradation of accuracy, we compared a few neural network models in order to determine the best network when only two input channels are being used. Further, the EMG signal feature value of average rate of change was used as input. LSTM showed the highest accuracy. However, MLP with a small number of hidden layers showed results similar to LSTM. Moreover, the accuracy for all models, with the exception of LSTM for one subject (SD), increased with the addition of feature value (average rate of change) as input. In conclusion, time-series networks work best with a small number of sensor inputs. However, depending on the optimizer being used, even a simple network can outrun a deep learning network. Furthermore, our results show that applying EMG signal feature value as an input tends to increase the estimation accuracy of the network.

Konsep desain dan perbaikan produk Ankle Foot Orthosis menggunakan metode kansei engineering

Stroke is a non-infections disease that can cause death. The impact of stroke is leg muscles getting weaken so leg cannot be used normally. This condition occurs due to leg muscles are not frequently used and the experience a decrease in muscle mass as a result of the stroke condition. Foot that cannot be used normally can be treated by doing therapy and wearing an ankle foot orthosis (AFO). AFO is an orthopedic aid that is attached to the foot. The benefits of AFO are to improve the structure of the legs and help users to return to walking normally. This research was conducted to redesign AFO by identifying customer need and emotions towards AFO products through the Kansei Engineering method. The study was conducted by distributing 12 pairs of Kansei questionnaires up to 20 respondents through a quota sampling technique. The results were analyzed using multivariate statistics. The data processing used to compile the design element questionnaire. This questionnaire combines two categories for each design item. Respondents can choose which the best design combination. The selected design parts are open design with webbing tight type, the selected material is combination of plastic and steel, and the unobtrusive color. The design result is used as a reference for AFO design and manufacture.

Comparison of Sagittal Plane Stiffness of Nonarticulated Pediatric Ankle-Foot Orthoses Designed to be Rigid.

When studying the effect of ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) on gait, it is important to know their sagittal plane stiffness. However, there are no established thresholds for stiffness of non-articulated AFOs designed to be rigid. If wanting to implement published algorithms for ankle-foot orthosis-footwear combinations (AFO-FCs), the AFOs must be equally as stiff as those of the developer of the published AFO-FC algorithms. Hence, the aim of this work was to compare the sagittal plane stiffness of AFOs designed to be rigid, made for a clinical trial in the USA, and following algorithms for AFO-FC designs, to those made and used clinically in the UK by the developer of the AFO-FC algorithms. Stiffness of 9 pediatric polypropylene AFOs was tested (UK: 6; USA: 3). A computer-controlled motorized device was used in which all AFOs were clamped with the calf shell in a fixed vertical component and the foot section in a rotating plate. Each AFO was tested for 3 trials, loading the foot plate 30 Nm towards dorsiflexion and 20 Nm towards plantarflexion. Torque-angle graphs were plotted and deflection and stiffness compared descriptively across AFOs. Average deflection of AFOs was UK: 3.42±0.83° and USA: 4.81±1.05°. Average stiffness of AFOs was UK: 14.34±3.34 Nm/° and USA: 10.30±1.92 Nm/°. All tested AFOs deflected only a few degrees in either direction (range: 2.59° to 6.02°), providing the first information reported for the stiffness of rigid pediatric non-articulated AFOs. Overall, the UK AFOs were stiffer and deflected less than the USA study AFOs. AFO design features should be carefully considered as they likely influence sagittal plane stiffness and deflection under load.

The effect of rotational speed on ankle-foot orthosis properties

Ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) are devices that support ankle motion. An AFO’s sagittal plane rotational stiffness can affect gait kinematics. Because AFOs are often made from viscoelastic materials, their properties may vary at different walking speeds. The influence of rotational speed on AFO properties has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the impact of rotational speed on AFO stiffness about the ankle. We tested a sample of one thermoplastic off-the-shelf AFO and two 3-D printed carbon fiber enforced nylon AFOs. Each AFO’s dynamic resistance torque was measured as it was flexed at five speeds (5-100 °/s) using a custom-built measurement apparatus. We compared loading stiffness, neutral angle, and energy dissipation parameters for each AFO across speeds. Parameter values were generally greater at higher speeds. These effects were statistically significant for all AFOs (p≤0.002). However, differences in AFO stiffness and neutral angle across speeds were quite small (<0.6 Nm/° and <2.2 °). Changes in the thermoplastic AFO’s stiffness were lower than the minimum detectable difference. Energy dissipation, as indicated by hysteresis area, increased by up to 6.3 J (about 250%) at the highest speed. This demonstrates that AFO flexion speed can influence the properties of different AFOs over the range typically achieved in human walking. Future work should assess whether the observed small variations of stiffness and neutral angle have a clinically meaningful impact on user performance, as well as explore effects of angular speed on a variety of AFO materials and designs.

The impact of orthoses on gait in children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

BackgroundCharcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) results in distal muscle weakness that leads to gait difficulties in both the stance and swing phases, thus limiting function in the community. A primary purpose of ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) is to improve gait function; however, little is known about what AFOs are prescribed and how they benefit children with CMT. Research questionTo determine the impact of previously prescribed AFOs on gait in children with CMT using comprehensive gait analysis techniques. MethodsWe examined strength, passive range of motion and gait (kinematics, kinetics and temporal-spatial) for barefoot and AFO walking on 15 children with a diagnosis of CMT. Participants used their prescribed AFOs, the design of which varied depending on the patient. Comparisons between barefoot and AFO walking were completed for selected ankle, knee and hip kinematics and kinetics and temporal-spatial parameters. Subgroups were also evaluated based upon specific ankle kinematics relevant to AFO prescription. ResultsAFOs resulted in increased walking velocity (0.91, SD 0.31 to 1.13, SD 0.23 m/sec, p = 0.001) and improved ankle kinematics (dorsiflexion in mid-swing: -11, SD 10 to 0, SD 5 degrees, p = 0.0001) and kinetics (peak plantar flexor moment in stance: 0.71, SD 0.30 to 0.85, SD 0.29 Nm/kg, p = 0.001). In patients with increased equinus in swing, AFOs resulted in improved ankle kinematics. In patients with increased dorsiflexion in terminal stance, AFOs did not provide the support that was needed to improve gait function. SignificanceAFOs enhance gait function in children with CMT by improving walking velocity and selected ankle kinematics and kinetics. It is important that the AFO design be aligned with the patient’s specific joint level impairment and associated gait dysfunction. Comprehensive gait analysis techniques can measure differences between barefoot and AFO function and help to clarify the most appropriate AFO prescription for an individual child.

Design and analysis of a passive ankle foot orthosis by using transient structural method

Foot drop is a condition where individuals are unable to lift the foot through the ankle. It results in slap foot after heel contact and toe drag during the swing phase. Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a mechanical device that supports both the ankle and foot of the individual and guides the movements of the foot to prevent slap foot and toe drag. There are two types of AFOs:Passive AFO and Active AFO. In this work, design and static analysis of a passive AFO to fit a human foot is presented. The static analysis was carried out for AFO made of two different materials (Polypropylene and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)) with two different thicknesses (3mm and 4mm). Based on the results obtained from the static analysis, the design of AFO was optimized for shape and thickness.Further dynamic analysis was carried out on the optimized AFO to know its behaviour in walking condition. The results obtained from the static and dynamic analyses showed that the polypropylene AFO was better compared to that of HDPE AFO by generating less stress, deformation, and factor of safety. The proposed AFO can be fabricated and tested for real-time walking conditions.

The comparison of the effect of innovative designed storing-restoring hybrid passive AFO versus posterior leaf spring AFO on ankle joint kinematic in drop foot patients: A case series using a single subject design.

Background: Drop foot syndrome is a disorder characterized by foot slapping after the initial contact and foot-dragging during the swing phase. Passive and hybrid passive ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are often prescribed in these patients; however, the effects of these AFO designs on kinematic parameters during gait are unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of innovative designed storing-restoring hybrid passive AFOs versus posterior leaf spring AFO on ankle joint kinematics in drop foot patients. Methods: The present study was a case series where a single case and 3 cases with drop foot syndrome were recruited. This study was designed in 2 phases: the baseline phase with their PLS AFOs and an intervention phase in which innovative designed AFO were assessed. Each phase included 5 measurement sessions which were performed in 5 consecutive weeks. The celeration line method was used to detect the significant differences between the phases. Results: The results of this study showed a significant increase in the kinematic angles parameters at the initial contact, the loading response, the mid stance, terminal stance, pre swing, initial swing, mid swing, and terminal swing with the innovative designed AFO than with PLS AFO (p<0.05). Conclusion: The results of the present study suggested that use of the innovative designed AFO may have a positive effect on ankle joint kinematics parameters in people with drop foot.

Customized design and additive manufacturing of kids’ ankle foot orthosis

PurposeThe purpose of this study is improvement of human gait by customized design of ankle foot orthosis (AFO). An has been the most frequently used orthosis in children with cerebral palsy. AFOs are designed to boost existing features or to avoid depression or traumatize muscle contractures. The advantages of AFO’s utilized for advancement in human walk attributes for the improvement in foot deformities patients or youngsters with spastic loss of motion. In this research on the customized design of AFO's to improve gait, there are limitations during walking of foot drop patients. In children with foot drops, specific AFOs were explicitly altered to improve parity and strength which are beneficial to walking positions.Design/methodology/approachThis study proposes the customized design of AFOs using computerized and additive manufacturing for producing advances to alter the design and increase comfort for foot drop patients. Structuring the proposed design fabricated by using additive manufacturing and restricted material, the investigation was finalized at the Design Analysis Software (ANSYS). The system that performs best under investigation can additionally be printed using additive manufacturing.FindingsThe results show that the customized design of AFOs meets the patient’s requirements and could also be an alternative solution to the existing AFO design. The biomechanical consequences and mechanical properties of additive manufactured AFOs have been comparable to historically synthetic AFOs. While developing the novel AFO designs, the use of 3D printing has many benefits, including stiffness and weight optimization, to improve biomechanical function and comfort. To defeat the issues of foot drop patients, a customized AFO is used to improve the human gait cycle with new material and having better mechanical properties.Originality/valueThis research work focuses on the biomechanical impacts and mechanical properties of customized 3D-printed AFOs and compares them to traditionally made AFOs. Customized AFO design using 3D printing has numerous potential advantages, including new material with lightweight advancement, to improve biomechanical function and comfort. Normally, new applications mean an incremental collection of learning approximately the behavior of such gadgets and blending the new design, composite speculation and delivered substance production. The test results aim to overcome the new AFO structure issues and display the limited components and stress examination. The outcome of the research is the improved gait cycle of foot drop patients.

Content analysis of child user and carer perspectives of ankle-foot orthoses.

The evaluation of ankle-foot orthoses is primarily focused on biomechanical performance, with comparatively less studies pertaining to users' quality of life and experiential factors. To investigate how child users regard acquisition and use of ankle-foot orthoses through the perspectives of child users, parents/carers and practitioners. Inductive content analysis of secondary data. Child user and parent/carer perspectives, as communicated by them and by practitioners, were collected from online platforms and formal publications. Data and themes were analysed through an inductive approach. Investigator triangulation was used to increase trustworthiness and reduce bias. We found and analysed 223 data points from 30 informal online platforms and 15 formal publications. These data clustered into five key themes relating to user experience with ankle-foot orthoses, including materials, structure, aesthetics, service and impact. Child users had mixed opinions about ankle-foot orthoses, reporting satisfaction with the functional improvements resulting from ankle-foot orthosis wear, while noting negative feelings from the experience of acquiring and using the device. This research suggests that considering the five themes in ankle-foot orthosis provision could improve the child user experience, inform future ankle-foot orthosis design, and improve clinical outcomes.