The purpose of the study is to test different categories of ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) with patients who have had lower limb salvage, reconstruction or other problems impacting limb function. Some lower limb AFO users will decide later to amputate the affected limb to escape pain and repeated surgery requiring them to use a prosthesis instead. Benefits may include reduced pain and more function from a prosthesis.
This research will allow physicians, physical therapists, orthotists, and researchers to determine what modifications can be made to AFOs to make them more comfortable and usable. Over the course of a year, subjects will test both AFO types; a conventional (standard) AFO and an advanced (energy storing and return) AFO, in a battery of physical tests, community use, and surveys to gain a better understanding of the pros and cons of each.
Subjects will be recruited to participate in research for approximately 18 months. During the first six weeks (up to three weeks on each type of AFO), subjects will be provided with an AFO and given training on how to correctly use and maintain it, to ensure optimal use. Over the following 12 months, there will be monthly assessments including questionnaires, activity monitor uploads, device failures, and interviews to gather information on the subject's experience with AFO use.
