The new AFO and FES fact sheet will help people working with physical therapists understand the differences between AFO and FES. The fact sheet describes the features and benefits of AFO and FES and how AFO or FES may help a person after a stroke.

A Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Ankle-Foot Orthoses and Functional Electrical Stimulation Post-Stroke. J Neurol Phys Ther. 2021 Apr 1;45(2):112-196. doi: 10.1097/NPT.0000000000000347.

The 2 types of AFO orthoses most often prescribed after stroke are Fixed AFO and Articulated AFO. The Fixed AFO is indicated to eliminate excessive plantar flexion and minimize hyperextension of the knee. It is also utilized to prevent joint …

Oct 24, 2024 · The use of an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) can improve the motor function of stroke patients in several ways. AFOs have been shown to increase walking speed, cadence, step length, and stride length. They can also improve gait stability and general ambulatory ability.

Apr 1, 2021 · Summary: This CPG suggests that AFO and FES both lead to improvements post-stroke. Future studies should examine timing of provision, device types, intervention duration and delivery, longer term follow-up, responders versus nonresponders, and …

This study was conducted to compare the effects of three ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) designs on walking after stroke and determine whether an ankle plantar flexion contracture impacts response to the AFOs.

May 2, 2013 · We found that an AFO or an FDS used for 30 weeks after stroke had similar effects on gait speed. Still, with effect sizes ranging from 0.93 to 1.00, the FASTEST trial provides encouraging evidence that rehabilitation interventions for drop foot can have a positive impact even many years after stroke.

We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the effectiveness of ankle–foot orthosis (AFO) use in improving gait biomechanical parameters such as walking speed, mobility, and kinematics in patients with stroke with gait disturbance.

Feb 24, 2021 · Moderate evidence exists that AFO and FES increase quality of life, walking endurance, and muscle activation, and weak evidence exists for improving gait kinematics. AFO or FES should not be...

Nov 10, 2023 · For stroke patients, AFOs compensate for the weakened or paralyzed muscles, assisting in foot clearance and preventing the foot from dragging while walking. This support reduces the risk of tripping or falling, promoting a more natural gait pattern.