Nash B, Roller J, Parker M
The aim of this study was to investigate whether tone-reducing orthotics have an effect on gait; including EMG activity, velocity, step length, double stance time and Functional Ambulatory scores. This study was based on an individual with incomplete SCI and spasticity. The subject was a 25 year old male who was 16 months post injury involving a T6/T9 incomplete SCI.
Five different walking conditions were tested; barefoot, shoes, footplates, AFO, tone reducing AFO. Each condition was assessed with the previously mentioned outcome measures.
Gait velocity and step length increased with the tone reducing AFO and double stance time decreased. The tone reducing AFO appears to improve control of lower extremities.
Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, 2008, 31(1), 39-47