Development & Evaluation of Pneumatic Artificial Muscle(PAM) for Patients With Ankle Foot Orthosis(AFO)

Superior University

Status: Active, not recruiting

Conditions: Orthopedic Disorder

Treatments: Diagnostic Test: PneuFlex AFO Assist

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06438835

MSRSW/Batch-Fall22/703

Details and patient eligibility

About

Pneumatic Artificial Muscles (PAMs), inspired by the structure and function of natural muscles, offer a lightweight and adaptable solution compared to traditional rigid Ankle Foot Orthosis(AFOs).

Full description

The development process involves design optimization to ensure proper, fit, functionality and durability. Researchers utilize advanced materials and manufacturing techniques to create PAMs that mimic the natural movement of the ankle joint while providing sufficient support and flexibility. Evaluation of PAMs involves rigorous testing in both laboratory settings and real world environments. Bio-mechanical analysis assesses the performance of PAMs during various activities such as walking, running and stair negotiation. Critical trails involving patients with AFOs provide valueable feedback on usability, comfort and overall satisfaction. Additionally, long-term studied monitor the durability and reliability of PAMs over extended periods of use. Overall, the development and evaluation of PAMs for patient with AFOs represent a significant advancement in assistive technology. By offering a more natural and adaptive solution for gait assistance, PAMs enhance mobility, independence and quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments.

Enrollment: 4 patients

Sex: All

Ages: 14 to 65 years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosis of droop foot
• Ability to tolerate pneumatic pressure
• Sufficient muscle strength activation

Exclusion criteria

• Allergy to materials used in device fabrication
• Severe muscle weakness preventing activation
• Uncontrolled hypertension, pregnancy.

Trial design

Primary purpose: Diagnostic

Allocation: N/A

Interventional model: Single Group Assignment

Masking: None (Open label)

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4 participants in 1 patient group

PneuFlex AFO Assist

Experimental group

Treatment:

Diagnostic Test: PneuFlex AFO Assist