Hypothesis: The Use Of AFO Effect Dynamic Controltions In All Directions

Hypothesis. The hypothesis is that the use of AFOs will increase dynamic stability while performing reach tests in all directions. The researchers hypothesized this would occur due to the increase in ankle stability that the AFO provides when performing functional movement. Method. The study was performed with 23 participants that had suffered a stroke. The participants consisted of 12 left hemisphere infarcts and 11 right hemisphere infarct patients. There were additional criteria including CVA symptoms lasting less than 10 months, being able to ambulate 10 m or more with use of A.D, if necessary, and ability to follow instructions. Exclusions were made if the participants had an orthopedic problem that could deviate results, if the patient
The use of AFOs increased the participant’s functional stability and improved Reach Test measurements than without the use of an AFO. With forward reaching, the average distance increased by about 8 cm with average measurements of about 17.99 cm without an AFO and about 25.77 cm with the use of an AFO. Average reaching distances to both right and left sides were increased by about 6 cm with the use of an AFO. Average right side reaching results without an AFO were about 12.75 cm and about 18.92 cm using the AFO. Average left side reaching results was 14.84 cm and 20.91 cm with the larger measurement of the two being performed with an
One large barrier that could affect placing this into practice is that AFOs are not provided to all patients. They are extremely costly, and insurance doesn’t always provide aid to all patients. Due to this reason also, my patient did not have access to purchase an AFO. This treatment method was also not able to be used on my patient due to him lacking an orthosis on his non-affected limb which had undergone a previous BKA and other comorbidities that limited his function in the acute setting. With the improvements he made in a 3 weeks of physical therapy treatment, using an AFO in his post-acute care setting could be of increased benefit on his overall functional