A Randomized Controlled Evaluation of the Efficacy of an Ankle-Foot Cast on Walking Recovery Early After Stroke: SWIFT Cast Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Timely provision of an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) orthotist customized for individuals early after stroke can be problematic.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of a therapist-made AFO (SWIFT Cast) for walking recovery.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled, observer-blind trial. Participants (n = 105) were recruited 3 to 42 days poststroke. All received conventional physical therapy (CPT) that included use of "off-the-shelf" and orthotist-made AFOs. People allocated to the experimental group also received a SWIFT Cast for up to 6 weeks. Measures were undertaken before randomization, 6 weeks thereafter (outcome), and at 6 months after stroke (follow-up). The primary measure was walking speed. Clinical efficacy evaluation used analysis of covariance.

Re

SUBMITTER: Pomeroy VM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4704299 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature