Considerations for Implementation of an Ankle-Foot Orthosis to Improve Mobility in Peripheral Artery Disease.
Ayisha Z Bashir, Danae M Dinkel, Ganesh M Bapat and 5 others
PMID 33778468WHAT IT FOUND
Patients who stopped wearing ankle-foot orthoses reported more pain, discomfort, and health barriers than those who continued.
While many users found standing and walking easier, physical discomfort and poor overall health were the main reasons for dropping out.
Key findings
01Participants who withdrew from the study wore the device less, had more negative initial reactions, and reported higher physical discomfort and health barriers compared to completers.
02Most patients in both the withdrawal and completion groups acknowledged positive aspects, such as ease in standing and walking.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The study had a very small sample size (21 patients), limiting the generalisability of the findings. Only two specific types of carbon-fiber AFOs were tested, so results may not apply to other orthotic designs. The study explored patient perspectives but did not measure clinical outcomes like walking distance or quality of life.
Declared interests
The authors reported no conflicts of interest. The study was supported by institutional review board approval and informed consent.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret this as evidence that AFOs improve mobility or physical function. The study only reported patient perceptions and reasons for dropout, not objective outcomes like walking speed or distance.