Lightweight, modular knee-ankle-foot orthosis for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: design, development, and evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to design and construct a modular system of knee-ankle-foot orthotics (KAFOs) that could be quickly and easily assembled and provided to children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. A pilot study would then compare the modular orthotics with the childrens' existing devices.

DESIGN

Measurements from the legs of a consecutive sample of 26 Duchenne boys were taken to determine the sizing of the modular system. Nine boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy were randomly selected to take part in a pilot study that focused on a comparison between their original and modular KAFOs of supply time, weight, energy expenditure during gait, gait speed, and ease of don/doff.

SETTING

The supply and fitting of the KAFOs can be done either in the hospital, clinic, or school.

PATIENTS

Boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, referred by the clinician for provision of KAFOs. Nine boys were approached to take part in the pilot study; all accepted. Their age range was 5 to 13 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

It is possible, by use of a modular KAFO system, to provide long leg orthoses to boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in approximately 1 hour.

RESULTS

The pilot study also showed that the modular KAFOs provided a 23% weight saving, resulting in a 10% energy saving during ambulation and an 8% increase in walking speed. They were easier to don/doff and were preferred by all involved.