Semi-active Orthosis for the Treatment of Equinus Foot
摘要
Orthopedic devices, particularly orthoses, have seen significant innovation aimed at improving assistive functions during injury recovery. Modern advancements have made these devices more ergonomic and accessible, promoting integration into daily life. However, traditional solutions often rely on immobilization, which can hinder long-term recovery in conditions such as neuronal disorders affecting extremities. A clear example is equinus foot, where patients are unable to complete the stance or swing phases of gait due to insufficient strength to maintain the ankle at 90 degrees. Existing passive devices immobilize the ankle, leading to neuromuscular inactivity. In contrast, active orthoses use servomotors to assist movement based on real-time gait analysis, but they face challenges such as limited ergonomics and high costs. This article introduces a novel, technically and economically viable semi-active orthosis for equinus foot. It does not use motors to drive movement but instead provides adjustable assistance through elastic mechanisms. This configuration promotes neuromuscular activation while maintaining ergonomic comfort. The orthosis offers a customizable range of motion and assistance intensity, supporting the rehabilitation process under professional supervision. By bridging the gap between passive and active systems, this solution offers a new pathway for effective and accessible rehabilitation in patients with equinus foot. The result of this research has been reflected in the filing of a patent application.