Article

NiTi is a metal alloy with unconventional functional characteristics: Shape
memory and pseudoelasticity. Its use in the field of rehabilitation is very innovative. This work presents applications in lower limb orthotics. Three
different devices were assembled and tested: An equinus gait dynamic splint,
a compliant ankle positioning brace, and a dual-mode haptic/active exerciser for
the dorsiflexors. Results are derived from technical and preclinical trials. The
gait splint improves several walking parameters even better than a traditional
flexible ankle-foot orthoses (AFO). In particular, it supports mid-stance and
propulsion biomechanics and affects physiological activation of tibialis anterior
during swing much less than posterior leaf AFO. The haptic/active exerciser, able
to provide dorsiflexion through a suitable articular range, could be controlled
on the basis of minimal surface electromyographic (sEMG) signals, suggesting its
use as an aid for early active workouts as soon as patients start to recover
voluntary control of tibialis anterior. Further evidence must be sought in future
to confirm for the ankle joint the promising results obtained in repositioning
applications in prior upper limb studies. The work done so far on the tested
prototypes is encouraging: Material characteristics and dimensioning will be
optimized so that customized NiTi devices can be prescribed to best meet
individual patients' requirements.

Langue : ANGLAIS