Degree dissertation- Power development of AFO's in Ambulation- Help appreciated

Degree dissertation- Power development of AFO's in Ambulation- Help appreciated

D.A.Buchanan

11/14/1997

I am a third year student studying P+O in the UK.

My final project involves the use of EMG, force plates and isokinetic
analysis- to ascertain, scientifically I hope, the extent to which the
anterior trim lines affect the performance of cosmetic polyprop. AFO's.

I wish to try and provide an insight into the possibility of allowing
progressive rehabilitation of surgically repaired (or lengthened)
Tendo-achilles:- Cutting back the trim lines will reduce the power
developed by the AFO, requiring more patient input; aligning stresses in
scar tissue during healing and providing a stronger repair. (A
neccesarily simplistic view- I'm only aiming to pass my degree, whilst
stimulating interest from other, more knowledgable, parties.)
With reference to lengthened T.A's I hope to an insight into
adaptability to help prevent Crouch gait development.
The above mentioned apparatus will be used to measure, on a normal fit
male, the following:-

1.Maximum contraction of medial head of Gastroc. (EMG and Isokinetic
concurrent)

2.Muscular contraction required for push off. (EMG and Force plates
concurrent). After each trim line revision.(3 trim revisions per AFO).

The above will be fully carried out using one AFO, then repeated using
another to ensure decent results.

If anybody has got any ideas, or references, that may help- don't be
shy.
In our establishment we problems with journals etc non turning up when
ordered, so any pointers are going to make my literature review etc
easier; leaving me time to do a good job (hopefully.


Yours respectfully

Dave Buchanan
Bsc(hons)P+O
Department of Rehabilitation
Salford University
U.K.
<Email Address Redacted>