Comparative Efficacy of Posterior Leaf Spring vs. Static Ankle Foot Orthoses on Balance, Mobility, and Quality of Life in Post-Stroke Hemiparetic Patients
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Keywords
Post-stroke hemiparesis, posterior leaf spring AFO, static AFO, balance, mobility, quality of life.
Abstract
Post-stroke hemiparesis often results in impaired balance, mobility, and quality of life. Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly prescribed to improve these functions. The posterior leaf spring (PLS) and static AFOs are two widely used types, yet their comparative efficacy remains under-researched.
Aim: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of posterior leaf spring versus static ankle foot orthoses on balance, mobility, and quality of life in post-stroke hemiparetic patients.
Methods: A total of 120 post-stroke hemiparetic patients were enrolled in this study, conducted from March 2023 to February 2024. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: one received posterior leaf spring AFOs (n=60), and the other received static AFOs (n=60). Outcomes were measured using standardized assessments for balance (Berg Balance Scale), mobility (Timed Up and Go Test), and quality of life (Stroke Impact Scale) at baseline and at the end of the study period.
Results: Both groups exhibited significant improvements in balance, mobility, and quality of life over the study period. However, patients using posterior leaf spring AFOs showed a statistically significant greater improvement in balance (p<0.05) and mobility (p<0.05) compared to those using static AFOs. Quality of life scores also improved more in the PLS AFO group, although the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Posterior leaf spring ankle foot orthoses demonstrated superior efficacy in improving balance and mobility compared to static AFOs in post-stroke hemiparetic patients. While both types of AFOs enhanced the quality of life, the PLS AFOs were more beneficial in terms of balance and mobility enhancements
References
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