Article

We performed this review to provide a clearer understanding of how to effectively
measure ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) rigidity. This information is important to
ensure appropriate orthotic intervention in the treatment of patients with
pathological gait. The two main approaches to the investigation of AFO rigidity
are (1) bench-testing analyses, in which an AFO is fixed or attached to a
measurement device, and (2) functional analyses, in which measurements are taken
while a subject is walking with an AFO in situ. This review summarizes and
classifies the current state of knowledge of AFO rigidity testing methods. We
analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of the methods in order to recommend the
most reliable techniques to measure AFO rigidity. The information obtained from
this review article would, therefore, benefit both clinicians and engineers
involved in the application and design of AFOs.

Langue : ANGLAIS