Evolution
Timing of providing ankle-foot orthoses in stroke rehabilitation

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are often used in the rehabilitation after stroke. Up till now, the effects of AFOs are mainly studied in cross-over studies to assess the immediate and short-term effects of AFOs on walking. Several positive effects of AFOs on among others walking ability and balance tasks are reported in those studies. Evidence for the long-term effects of AFOs, and especially research studying the timing of providing AFOs after stroke is lacking.

Pictures provided by Basko

Therefore, Roessingh Research and Development and Roessingh Rehabilitation Centre initiated a new scientific research to study the effects of timing of providing AFOs in the rehabilitation of (sub)acute stroke patients. The inclusion of patients started in December 2009 and will end in 2012.

In this longitudinal research 2 groups of stroke patients are compared which differ in the moment in which the AFO is provided after stroke. AFOs are provided as soon as possible after admission into the rehabilitation centre, or 8 weeks later. Both groups will be measured with 2-week intervals for 18 weeks, with follow-up measurements after 26 and 52 weeks. Gait analysis measurements (including EMG and ground reaction forces) are performed to measure walking impairments. Several clinical tests like the Berg Balance Scale, 10-m walking test, 6 minute walking test, Timed Up&Go test, Rivermead Mobility Index and Barthel Index are performed to assess mobility and activities of daily living. Furthermore, from each subject occurrence of falls and the use of walking aids is reported in a diary.

Project Partners: Roessingh Research & Development, The Netherlands; Het Roessingh Centrum voor Revalidatie, The Netherlands; Roessingh Revalidatie Techniek The Netherlands

This project has been sponsored by:

Innovatiecentrum Revalidatie Technologie	Basko Healthcare

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