AFO Prescription to Optimize Post-Stroke Function

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · Nov 14, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, titled "AFO Prescription to Optimize Post-Stroke Function," aims to help improve the quality of life for people who have experienced a stroke and have difficulty with their lower limbs. The study will explore three different designs of ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), which are supportive devices that help with walking and balance after a stroke. Researchers will look at what factors contribute to better health outcomes and will assess how well each AFO design works for improving movement and function.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old, have had a stroke at least three months prior, and be able to walk some distance without help. Participants will wear each of the three AFO designs for a month and will complete questionnaires and performance tests to evaluate their experience. Some participants will also undergo special tests using cameras and force plates to analyze their walking and balance more closely. This study is not yet recruiting, but it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to our understanding of how different AFO designs can support recovery after a stroke.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• 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 7 days a week
• • be able to walk at least 20 meters without manual assistance
• • walk at least 10 meters per minute (12% of normal velocity) and no faster than 60 meters per minute (75% 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 one of the brace options be contraindicated for the patient
• • 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
• • having marked inversion or ankle plantar flexor spasticity that interferes with foot placement for stance