Publication: Design and testing of patient-specific ankle foot orthosis (AFO)
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Date
2023-07
Authors
Celine, Gan Kar Yan
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Abstract
Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a medical device that is commonly used in the field of orthotics to assist individuals with lower limb impairments in improving their mobility and functional abilities. It is a custom-made or prefabricate brace that provides support and stabilization to the ankle and foot region. Current available AFO in the market is not comfortable to wear, expensive and often cause problems to patient. Most AFOs are imported from foreign countries which are not suitable to use locally or during hot weather. They have restricted size options and potential inability to perfectly match the foot and leg geometry of every patient. This study aims to design, fabricate using 3D printing, and test a patient-specific AFO. Firstly, MediACE3D software was utilized to design the Solid AFO and Hinged AFO based on the scanned foot. Then, the AFOs were fabricated using Flashforge Guider II 3D printer. Walking gait analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the AFOs on the subject’s walking pattern. The walking motions of the subject were captured and the relative angles of ankle during walking gait phases are measured using Kinovea software. The results show that the subject successfully presented normal gaits with the aid of the fabricated Solid AFO and Hinged AFO. It was found that the subject is able to lift the front part of the foot when walking with the assistance of the AFO. This proves that the Solid AFO and Hinged AFO can provide substantial assistance and advantages especially to individuals experiencing foot drop.