Comprehensive analysis of energy storing prosthetic feet: Flex Foot and Seattle Foot Versus Standard SACH foot.

This study compared the mechanical and biomechanical functions, metabolic demand, and shock absorption of two dynamic elastic response (DER) prosthetic foot designs with the SACH foot. Nine individuals who had undergone unilateral below knee amputation were studied. Mechanical properties of the feet were related to gait biomechanics.

Comprehensive analysis of dynamic elastic response feet: Seattle Ankle/Lite Foot versus SACH foot.

This study evaluated biomechanical and metabolic performance differences between two prosthetic foot designs in light of their mechanical properties. Ten unilateral below-knee amputee subjects, at least 1 year after amputation, capable of walking and running, were studied. Differences in heel and forefoot compliance explained differences in gait events and alignment.

Influence of cryotherapy on spasticity at the human ankle.

The application of cryotherapy to temporarily reduce spasticity is a widespread clinical practice. A method of quantifying spasticity, based on viscoelastic stiffness measurements at the ankle, was applied to objectively determine the efficacy of cryotherapy in reducing spasticity of the calf. Baseline, cryotherapy and one-hour postcryotherapy measurements of spasticity were performed in 25 subjects with clinical signs of spasticity secondary to traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and stroke.