Which intervention allows activation of the anterior tibialis and gastrocnemius/soleus muscles while walking?

The option indicating that an AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) with decreased stiffness allows for the activation of the anterior tibialis and gastrocnemius/soleus muscles while walking is correct because a softer, more flexible AFO can facilitate a more natural range of motion during the gait cycle. This flexibility allows for better dorsiflexion and plantarflexion movements, enabling the anterior tibialis to assist in bringing the foot up during the swing phase and the gastrocnemius and soleus to help during the stance phase by allowing the heel to lower smoothly to the ground.

Increased stiffness, in contrast, might restrict the natural movements of the ankle and foot, inhibiting the appropriate activation of these muscle groups during walking. A FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation) device, while effective in activating muscles through electrical impulses, does not rely on mechanical properties of an orthosis and may not facilitate natural muscle function as smoothly as a properly adjusted AFO. An EFO (Elastic Foot Orthosis) generally provides support but may lack the specific alignment and function necessary to encourage the targeted muscle activation efficiently during walking.

Thus, an AFO with decreased stiffness is optimal for allowing the anterior tibialis and gastrocnemius/soleus to work