Analysis of Kinetic Load of Plastic Ankle Foot Orthosis during Swing Phase

Abstract

We developed a mechanical measurement system, which we then used in this PAFO gait experiment. We report that differences between hemiplegic patients and healthy subjects in the mechanical load acting on gait using a PAFO in swing phase. Moreover, there is a large difference between volunteers and patients in initial swing phase and especially in decreasing belt reaction force toward the end of terminal swing phase. We consider that this difference is relevant to control of voluntary movement. In conclusion, a large deformation can be observed between volunteers and patients by analyzing the belt reaction force and load waveform.