Measuring Surface Electromyography with Textile Electrodes in a Smart Leg Sleeve.

This paper presents the design, development, and validation of a novel e-textile leg sleeve for non-invasive Surface Electromyography (sEMG) monitoring. This wearable device incorporates e-textile sensors for sEMG signal acquisition from the lower limb muscles, specifically the anterior tibialis and lateral gastrocnemius. Validation was conducted by performing a comparative study with eleven healthy volunteers to evaluate the performance of the e-textile sleeve in acquiring sEMG signals compared to traditional Ag/AgCl electrodes.

Effects of Ankle-Foot Orthosis on Balance of Foot Drop Patients.

Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs) are common non-surgical treatments used to support foot and ankle joint when their normal functioning is compromised. AFOs have relevant impact on gait biomechanics, while scientific literature about effects on static balance is less strong and confusing. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a plastic semi-rigid AFO in improving static balance on foot drop patients.

Reliability of IMU-Derived Gait Parameters in Foot Drop Patients.

Foot drop is a deficit in foot dorsiflexion causing difficulties in walking. Passive ankle-foot orthoses are external devices used to support the drop foot improving gait functions. Foot drop deficits and therapeutic effects of AFO can be highlighted using gait analysis.

Maria Adelaide brace in the management of Scheuermann's Kyphosis.

Purpose: This prospective observational study aims to assess the MA brace effectiveness in hyperkyphosis correction, focusing also on patients' compliance of bracing and its psychological impact.

Methods: Patients referring to our spine outpatient department with Scheuermann's kyphosis (SK) from January 2011 to January 2017 were prospectively recruited. Patients were divided into two groups, according to their global thoracic kyphosis (TK): Group-A TK < 60°, Group-B TK ≥ 60°.