Functional Electronic Stimulation (FES) is an advanced medical device that may provide immediate and dramatic improvement in walking for patients with foot drop. Interruption with the natural nerve to muscle communication between the leg and brain prohibits one’s ability to lift the foot naturally. Functional Electronic Stimulation (FES) replaces the communication by sending electrical signals to the peroneal nerve which controls movement in the ankle and foot.
Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) or braces (plastic or carbon fiber), may be solid or encompass an ankle joint and all (or part) of the foot. AFOs are externally applied and intended to control position and motion of the ankle, compensate for weakness, or correct deformities. They control the ankle directly, and can be designed to control the knee joint indirectly as well. AFOs are commonly used in the treatment of disorders affecting muscle function such as stroke, spinal cord injury, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, polio, multiple sclerosis, and peripheral neuropathy. AFOs can be used to support injured or weakened limbs, or to position a limb with contracted muscles into a more normal position. They are also used to immobilize the ankle and lower leg in the presence of arthritis or fracture, and to correct foot drop.
An AFO is generally constructed of lightweight polypropylene-based plastic or lightweight carbon fiber in the shape of an “L”, with the upright portion behind the calf and the lower portion running under the foot. They are attached to the calf with a strap and are made to fit inside accommodative shoes. The unbroken “L” shape of some designs provides rigidity, while other designs (with a jointed ankle) provide different types of control.
