[Effects of ankle-foot orthosis on gait stability and balance control in patients with hemiparetic stroke].

OBJECTIVE: To quantitatively analyze the effects of ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) on gait stability and explore its use for walking capacity, gait stability and balance control in post-stroke patients. METHODS: A total of 25 inpatients with prior chronic hemiparesis from stroke who could walk at least 10 meters without assistance were recruited. The maximal walking speed and gait asymmetry index were examined by a motion analysis system. Functional balance was assessed by the Functional Ambulation Categories, Berg Balance Scale and Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test. RESULTS: AFO had positive effects on the hemiplegic gait parameters of improving walking speed, gait stability and functional balance (P < 0.01). Pair wise comparisons suggested that there were significant differences in the maximal walking speed, Functional Ambulation Categories and gait asymmetry index after an immediate use of AFO (P < 0.05). At Week 4, there were significant differences in the parameters of walking speed, gait asymmetry index and functional balance control (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The use of AFO may compensate the instability of gait and balance. Functional tests improve significantly with orthosis.