• Physical Therapy Korea
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• v.22 no.3
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• pp.91-97
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• 2015

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of the removable ankle-foot orthosis (RAFO) which was developed to improve the gait of stroke patients. The subjects of this study were five stroke patients who agreed to participate in this study by signing a written consent form. To verify gait improvement after wearing the orthosis, a Timed Up and Go test and Functional Gait Assessment were performed, and spatiotemporal gait variables such as gait speed, cadence, stride length, double limb support, and the efficient gait test of body sway angle were performed. For every variable, the differences prior to and after wearing the RAFO were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Every gait variable improved significantly after wearing the RAFO compared to prior to wearing it. The pilot study will enhance future efforts to evaluate orthotic function objectively during gait in stroke patients.

• The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy
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• v.19 no.5
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• pp.51-63
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• 2007

Diabetic foot ulcers result from abnormal mechanical loading of the foot, such as repetitive pressure applied to the plantar aspect of the foot while walking. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy causes changes in foot structure, affecting foot function and subsequently leading to increased plantar foot pressure, which is a predictive risk factor for the development of diabetic foot ulceration. To early identify the insensitive foot makes it possible to prevent diabetic foot ulceration and to protect the foot at risk from abnormal biomechanical loading. Abnormal foot pressures can be reduced using several different approaches, including callus debridement, prescription of special footwear, foot orthosis. injection of liquid silicone, Achilles tendon lengthening, and so forth. Off-loading of the diabetic wound is a key factor to successful wound healing as it is associated with reduced inflammatory and accelerated repair processes. Pressure relief can be achieved using various off-loading modalities including accommodative dressing, walking splints, ankle-foot orthosis, total contact cast, and removable and irremovable cast walkers.

• Journal of Korean Foot and Ankle Society
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• v.7 no.1
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• pp.78-82
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• 2003

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of acute achilles tendon rupture patients treated by early mobilization after operative repair. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, 12 patients of acute Achilles tendon rupture were surgically treated from May 2001 to November 2002, with follow-up period of at least 6 months. There were 10 men and 2 women, and mean age was 35.9 year. The repair method was single Krackow suture technique. Two to three weeks after the operation, early ROM with removable ankle-foot orthosis(AFO) was started. We used Amer-Lindholm scale for the clinical evaluation and analyzed patient's satisfaction and subjective strength deficit. Results: We had 11 excellent results(92%), and 1 good results(8%). One-leg heel raising was possible in all patients. All the patients returned to the preinjury occupations and 7 patients(58%) reached the preoperative level of sports activities. There was no significant difference in ankle ROM and ankle plantar flexion isokinetic strength compared to contralateral side. There was, no reruptures. Conclusion: Early mobilization proved to be a well tolerated, safe, and effective means for the compliant patient.