The Effect of a Powered Ankle Foot Orthosis (PAFO) on Function, Safety, and Quality of Life in Military Service Members and Veterans Who Wear a Prescribed Orthosis

Abstract

This project is a 2-arm, parallel, randomized, controlled clinical trial designed to determine if a powered ankle foot orthosis(PAFO), that assists with toe clearance and provides push-off power when taking a step, will translate into enhanced function in individuals who walks with a prescribed AFO. We will assess these outcomes in veterans who walk with a prescribed AFO by randomizing participants, in a 1:1 ratio, into an intervention and a comparison group. Participants in both groups will receive newshoes to be worn with their orthosis to eliminate any confounding variables presented by worn or inadequate shoes. Participants in the intervention group will be provided enhanced training opportunities to use a PAFO while the comparison group will continuewith their currently prescribed orthosis. All participants will be followed with weekly contact over a 7-month period of time and receive physical therapy training. All outcome measures will be evaluated three times during the 7-month study period.Recruitment resources via Partner Orthotic clinics, Regional DAV, Memphis VAMC, local area health care agencies and physician practices have been identified and approval to contact potential study volunteers is currently in progress. Recruitment,enrollment/randomization, intervention is in progress and follow-up assessments will take place during in the coming quarters/year.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2023
Accession Number
AD1230140

Entities

People

  • Kunal Singhal
  • Phyllis A. Richey

Organizations

  • University of Memphis

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

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