A study published in the journal Prosthetics and Orthotics International August 5 assessed the validity and reliability of the Orthosis Comfort Score, a self-report instrument adapted from the Prosthetic Socket Fit Comfort Score. The prospective, observational study was designed to establish initial evidence of validity and reliability for an outcome measure that assesses comfort.
AFO users completed the Orthosis Comfort Score and two validated patient satisfaction questionnaires. An orthotist documented an assessment of fit. Post-visit Orthosis Comfort Scores were documented after the appointment as well as two to four  weeks later. Orthosis Comfort Scores were compared to the patient satisfaction questionnaires, assessment of fit, and orthosis use (hours per week).
Forty-six people participated in the study. Patients’ Orthosis Comfort Scores had a moderate positive correlation with their orthotist’s assessment of fit, very strong positive correlations with patient satisfaction questionnaires, and fair positive correlation with orthosis use (all correlations p < 0.05), the study found.
