Introduction
NMD, loss of evertor strength, stroke, orthosis, AFOs, Disability, peripheral neuropathy, AFO
DISEASES, STROKE, NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASE, SECONDARY, PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY
Diseases that affect the strength of the dorsiflexor muscles, such as stroke, peripheral neuropathy and neuromuscular disease (NMD), can result in foot drop. Foot drop restricts gait capacity and induces compensatory strategies, such as increased hip and knee flexion, to clear the foot and avoid tripping [Ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly prescribed, conservative methods to reduce foot drop and improve gait capacity [Many types of AFOs have been designed and different materials have been used [According to Alam et al. (2014), the ideal AFO must meet the following design specifications: be lightweight, compact, efficient, and untethered, prevent drop foot during swing while allowing normal ankle motion during other phases, and assist push off if necessary [Few commercialised orthoses currently meet all these criteria: carbon orthoses are lightweight and compact and may provide some push off assistance [One of the authors of the present study (BC) designed and developed a new type of carbon fibre orthosis with a helical shape that would: (1) prevent foot drop in swing, (2) allow normal ankle range of motion, (3) not reduce propulsion and (4) provide medial–lateral stability of the ankle. It was also intended to be lightweight, and aesthetically acceptable. Such an orthosis could improve gait capacity.The purpose of this study was first to determine if the orthosis improved gait capacity, which is the main aim of the wearer (activities level of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health [The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of this helical AFO (hAFO) on functional gait capacity (distance) in comparison with the effects of a posterior leaf spring AFO (plsAFO) or no AFO in patients with peripheral neuropathy or NMD causing drop foot with or without a concomitant loss of evertor strength. The secondary aims were to evaluate and compare functional mobility, 3D kinematic and kinetic gait variables and satisfaction between the two types of AFO.