Search / Trial NCT06234124

Characterization and Clinical Trial of a Variable Friction Shoe

Launched by SHIRLEY RYAN ABILITYLAB · Jan 22, 2024

Trial Information

Current as of October 08, 2024

Recruiting

Keywords

Description

The investigators propose an alternative strategy that addresses the hazard of tripping even while allowing full volitional control of the ankle: an inexpensive Variable Friction (VF) shoe. Its outsole is high-friction during the stance phase of gait and low friction during swing; further, it produces a "click" when a scuff occurs. The investigator's central hypothesis is that allowing volitional motion of the ankle while mitigating the hazard of tripping coupled with gait-phased auditory biofeedback will result in improved gait for subjects with drop foot. Specifically, the investigators ...

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

  • Inclusion Criteria:
  • 1. 3 months - 1-year poststroke (the period in which patients would typically be fitted with a device for foot drop)
  • 2. Age 18 or older
  • 3. Possess a prescribed AFO or be a potential candidate for use of an AFO
  • 4. Can ambulate at least 10m with or without an assistive device such as a cane or walker
  • 5. Medically stable as determined by physician medical clearance
  • 6. No expected change in medications for at least 3 months
  • 7. Adequate stability at the ankle during stance
  • 8. Ability to hear clicking noise made by the VF shoe
  • 9. Physician approval
  • 10. Ability to give informed consent
  • 11. Able to sit unsupported and be able to follow a three-step command
  • 12. No unhealed/unresolved orthopedic injury to either upper or lower extremity and no history of severe back pain
  • 13. English speaking
  • 14. Willing to follow an exercise program with both devices for at least 30 minutes per day, at least 5 days per week for the full length of the program (6 months)
  • Exclusion Criteria:
  • 1. History of falling more than once a week prior to the stroke
  • 2. Gait speed: self-selected velocity (SSV) greater than 1.2 m/s
  • 3. Inability to operate in the devices safely and no caregiver assistance available
  • 4. Morbid obesity (body mass index \>40 kg/m2)
  • 5. Preexisting conditions such as serious cardiac conditions, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, demand pacemaker, seizures, excessive dysesthetic pain, and severe lower extremity pathology that would interfere with fit or use of the shoe.
  • 6. Severe deficits in cognition or communication
  • 7. Pregnant women (status determined by self-reporting).
  • 8. Co-morbidity that interferes with the study (e.g. significant arthritis or joint problems, history of back injury, neuromuscular disorders, epilepsy, etc.).
  • 9. Severe Osteoporosis (status determined by self-reporting).
  • 10. Prisoners

About Shirley Ryan Abilitylab

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is a leading research and rehabilitation institute dedicated to advancing the science of physical medicine and rehabilitation. Based in Chicago, Illinois, the organization integrates clinical care, research, and education to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions. Known for its innovative approach, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab conducts clinical trials that aim to develop and evaluate cutting-edge therapies and technologies, fostering a collaborative environment that bridges the gap between laboratory research and patient care. Through its commitment to excellence, the institute strives to empower patients and improve outcomes in rehabilitation medicine.

Locations

Chicago, Illinois, United States

People applied

Timeline

First submit

Trial launched

Trial updated

Estimated completion

Not reported

Discussion 0