Effect of Ankle-Foot Orthosis on Muscle Contraction in Stroke Survivors
Author Information
Author(s): Liu Wei, Wu Hui-Dong, Li Yu-Ying, Zhu Ringo Tang-Long, Luo Yu-Yan, Ling Yan To, Wang Li-Ke, Wang Jian-Fa, Zheng Yong-Ping, Ma Christina Zong-Hao
Primary Institution: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hypothesis
The use of AFOs would positively influence the contraction patterns of paretic ankle muscles during walking in stroke patients.
Conclusion
The study found that AFOs positively influenced the contraction patterns of paretic ankle muscles during walking in stroke patients.
Supporting Evidence
- AFOs increased TA muscle thickness during the initial swing phase.
- AFOs decreased MG muscle thickness during walking.
- AFOs improved co-contraction patterns of ankle muscles.
- Participants showed increased plantar force when using AFOs.
- Walking with AFOs reduced stance time and increased swing time.
Takeaway
Wearing special braces called AFOs can help stroke patients walk better by improving how their leg muscles work.
Methodology
The study assessed muscle contractions in stroke patients while walking with and without AFOs using a wearable ultrasound imaging and sensing system.
Potential Biases
Potential crosstalk in sEMG measurements may confound results.
Limitations
The study did not compare data from the nonparetic side and only examined the immediate effects of AFO use.
Participant Demographics
20 sub-acute stroke survivors (13 males, 7 females) with an average age of 53.0 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website