Why is the reduction of stiffness important in AFO designs for patients poststroke?

The reduction of stiffness in ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) designs is particularly crucial for promoting muscle activation in patients post-stroke. When stiffness is reduced, it allows for greater flexibility and a more natural range of motion in the ankle and foot, which can facilitate the engagement of muscles that are often weakened or compromised due to the stroke. This flexibility enables patients to utilize their existing muscle control more effectively, which can promote re-learning and improvement of motor functions.

Encouraging muscle activation is vital for rehabilitation outcomes. Enhanced muscle engagement can help in rebuilding strength, coordination, and proprioception, ultimately leading to improved functional mobility. By fostering a more active participation of the lower limb muscles, patients may experience better overall performance in activities of daily living and greater independence.

In contrast, while comfort, stability, and fall risk are important considerations for AFO design, the specific focus on reducing stiffness directly ties into the goals of activating underused or weak muscles, thereby playing a key role in the rehabilitation process for stroke survivors.