Objective

Toe filler combined to ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) can be used to improve gait after a partial foot amputation. The AFO supports the plantar aspect of the foot, and the toe filler gives a longer lever arm that helps for pivoting over the lost metatarsals. However, the AFO type can influence gait parameters.

The objective of this study case was to evaluate the effect of prosthesis with toe filler combined to:

– an articulated AFO;

– a fixed carbon-fiber AFO on gait.

Patients and methods

A gait analysis was practiced on a 20-year-old male with a partial foot amputation.

Kinematic and kinetic data during walking, gait efficiency (Energy Expenditure Index), and postural control were evaluated in both conditions.

Results

An improved ankle power was observed at toe-off with the fixed carbon-fiber AFO. Moreover, spatiotemporal gait parameters were more symetrical with the fixed carbon-fiber AFO. Gait efficiency was higher with the fixed carbon-fiber AFO compared to the articulated one.

Discussion/Conclusion

The fixed carbon-fiber AFO improves ankle kinematic and kinetic during walking and results in an improvement of walking efficiency in this participant with partial foot amputation.