| Summary: | [Purpose] The aim of this study was to develop and assess the applicability of an
experimental ankle-foot orthosis during gait in patients with hemiparesis. [Subjects and
Methods] This was a noncontrolled cross-sectional study. Ten adult patients with
hemiparesis but who were capable of independent gait were included in the study. Gait
assessment was performed using two platforms (EMG System do Brasil), an electromyograph
(EMG System do Brasil), and a video camera. The experimental orthosis consisted of a
single piece that fit over the foot and 1/3 of the distal tibia and had a steel spring.
[Results] There was greater activation of the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis muscles
in the stance and mid-stance phases with the use of the experimental ankle-foot orthosis
in comparison with the use of a polypropylene ankle-foot orthosis and no orthosis.
Regarding spatial and temporal gait parameters, the individuals achieved an increase in
stride length with the use of the experimental ankle-foot orthosis in comparison with the
use of a polypropylene ankle-foot orthosis. [Conclusion] The results of the present study
demonstrate that individuals with hemiparesis achieved an improvement in the stance and
mid-stance phases of gait with the use of the experimental ankle-foot orthosis.
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