Dear List Members,
New content has been posted to the Gait Society Networking site. The latest Journal Club article describes a study regarding AFOs and balance: http://gait-society.ning.com/page/article-7-new
Cakar, E., Durmus, O., Tekin, L., Dincer, U., Kiralp, MZ. (2010) The ankle-foot orthosis improves balance and reduces fall risk of chronic spastic hemiparetic patients. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 46:363-8.
Shane Wurdeman (Scientific Liason) has added a great summary and review on the site to start the discussion. “This article addresses the effect of a posterior leaf spring AFO on balance. The study recruited 25 chronic post-stroke long duration hemiparetic patients for testing. They utilized the Biodex balance system and the Berg Balance Test. The Biodex balance system is a platform that the individual stands on and has various test while the center of pressure is recorded on the platform, similar to the more common Neurocom balance master. The Berg Balance Test is a clinically friendly balance assessment through various standing/sitting movements where the individual receives a score based on performance. For those not familiar, you can find a copy of the test here:
Berg Balance Test
Download article here:AFO_improves_balance.pdf
Please consider logging on to the site and participating in the discussion. Registration is required to access the site. The Academy allows participation on the site for a limited time prior to requiring Academy or Society membership. If you have questions about Society and/or web site membership, please feel free to contact me directly.
John Brinkmann, CPO, LPO, FAAOP
Gait Society Chair
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