Evaluating Gait After Use of The Motus Nova Foot Device for Patients With Hemiplegia
MultiCare Health System Research Institute
Summary
Individuals with hemiplegia commonly demonstrate gait deviations such as difficulties with heel strike at initial contact, foot drop in swing, asymmetrical limb loading, muscle activation, and balance impairments. This study evaluates whether a therapeutic device (Motus Nova Foot; FDA approved) used in the home setting can increase heel strike, decrease limp, improve foot clearance in swing phase, improve quality of active muscle contraction of the affected limb, and improve balance. The Motus Nova Foot moves the ankle/foot and uses guided computer/video activities to encourage active participation while automatically recording device use and duration.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 12–20 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 12-20 years. * Diagnosis consistent with hemiplegia and gait/balance impairments involving ankle/foot control (e.g., reduced heel strike). * Able to ambulate and safely participate in laboratory walking and balance testing. * Able to follow instructions and use the Motus Nova Foot system at home with family support as needed. * Willingness to refrain from standard clinic-based PT during the study period. Exclusion Criteria: * Skin integrity issues or hypersensitivity preventing safe use of straps/pads. * Medical/orthopedic conditions making walking or balance testi…
Interventions
- DeviceMotus Nova Foot
Motus Nova Foot device used in home therapy to improve gait for individuals with hemiplegia.
Location
- Mary Bridge Children's Therapy Research & Movement LabPuyallup, Washington