A microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis improves balance, risk of falling, mobility, function, and quality of life of individuals dependent on a knee-ankle-foot orthosis for ambulation
Year: 2023
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: Introduction The C-Brace microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis was designed to overcome safety and functional limitations of traditional knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) for individuals with lower limb paresis. However, a systematic comparison to established KAFO types has not been performed in a bigger sample.Methods International multicenter, randomized, controlled, cross-over clinical trial. Legacy KAFO users at risk of falling were randomized to KAFO/C-Brace or C-Brace/KAFO use for three months with each orthosis. Primary outcome was balance assessed with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Secondary outcomes were falls, mobility, function, and quality of life.Results Intention-to-treat analysis with 102 participants. With the C-Brace, the BBS improved by 3.3 ± 6.3 points (p < 0.0001). Significantly fewer participants presented BBS scores <40 indicative of increased fall risk (16 vs. 36, p = 0.018). Mean falls reduced from 4.0 ± 16.8 to 1.1 ± 3.3 (p = 0.002). Outcomes for function, mobility, and quality of life showed significant improvements with the C-Brace.Discussion The improvements in fall risk and mobility can be attributed to the stumble recovery and controlled knee flexion during weight bearing of the C-Brace and have a positive impact on the quality of life of users.Conclusion The C-Brace represents an option for KAFO users with increased fall risk and reduced mobility.
Source: Disability and Rehabilitation
Authors: Axel Ruetz, Tom DiBello, Chris Toelle, Bea Hemmen, Jason Wening, Eric Weber, Frank Braatz, Tobias Winkler, Friedemann Steinfeldt, Marina Umari, Rüdiger Rupp, Sascha Kluge, Alexander Krebs, Shane R. Wurdeman
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4387077458