Digital vs Traditional Ankle Foot Orthoses for Muscular Weakness
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The research is being done to compare two methods of creating AFOs: 1. The traditional method, which involves manually creating a mold from a plaster cast of the client's limb. This is time-consuming and labor-intensive; and 2. The newer method uses digital technology, such as 3D scanning and printing, to design and produce the AFOs, potentially making the process faster and less costly. We want to know whether AFOs made using digital technology can provide the same clinical benefits as those made traditionally.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is it safe to use ankle-foot orthoses for muscular weakness?
How does the treatment Ankle Foot Orthoses differ from other treatments for muscular weakness?
Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs) are unique because they provide stability and support to the ankle and foot, which is crucial for people with muscular weakness, especially in the lower legs. Unlike other treatments, AFOs can be customized for individual needs, such as adjusting stiffness to improve walking efficiency, and they offer a non-invasive way to enhance mobility and prevent further muscle deterioration.12678
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Ankle Foot Orthoses for muscular weakness?
Research shows that ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) can help people with calf muscle weakness by reducing the energy needed for walking and increasing walking speed. Specifically, stiffness-optimized AFOs were found to lower walking energy cost by 9.2% and improve walking speed by 5.2% compared to conventional AFOs.125910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jan Andrysek, P.Eng, PhD
Principal Investigator
Bloorview Research Institute
Virginia Wright, PT, PhD
Principal Investigator
Bloorview Research Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with conditions like muscular weakness, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, peripheral neuropathy, and similar nerve or muscle issues. It's also for those who have experienced delayed wound healing after a stroke or have nerve damage from injuries.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment Part A
Participants wear either traditional or digital AFOs for 3 weeks, then crossover to the other type for another 3 weeks
Treatment Part B
Participants continue wearing the assigned AFO type for an additional 8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Ankle Foot Orthoses
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
Lead Sponsor