Journal de pratique et de thérapie du yoga

Evaluation of efficacy and efficiency in implementing Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO) as a functionally assistive indoor ambulatory device for motor complete thoracic level (T10 –T12) spinal cord injury in males

Gamage Nuwani

The objective of this study was to evaluate the walking velocity, walking endurance, energy expenditure & risk of fall in use of KAFOs (Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis) over the alternative Aluminum Back Slab & Toe Raising Straps (ABS & TRS) on paraplegic (T10 –T12) ambulation which has not been performed among Sri Lankan patients. This was a case cross over study where fifteen, T10 – T12 motor complete paraplegic males who were using indoor ambulation with ABS & TRS and recommended to use KAFOs were recruited. A two weeks standardized ambulatory training was provided with either device prior to test.