The effects of orthotic therapy for acute stroke patients in two different groups, continually using KAFO and changing from KAFO to AFO, compared at the time when transition from KAFO to AFO can usually be done

Abstract

This study investigated therapeutic effects of rehabilitation with Knee Ankle Foot Orthoses (KAFO) and Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO) in acute stroke patients who can switch over from KAFO to AFO. Fourteen acute stroke patients who can walk with AFO participated in this study. Subjects were divided into the AFO group and KAFO group. Maximum weight bearing rate on the non-affected and affected side, step length, walking speed, and cadence were compared by means of before and after exercises. As a result, the KAFO group significantly increased the maximum weight bearing rate on the affected side, gait speed and step length after the exercises. Standing and walking exercises with KAFO suggested immediately improved walking ability and affected side lower limb support in stroke patients who can switch over from KAFO to AFO.