Could a new type of ankle brace assist walking in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy?
Project leader: Dr Ros Quinlivan Location: RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry Duration of project: 3 years (starting October 2007) Total project cost: £32,400 Official project title: Pilot project investigating the use of novel ankle-foot orthosis and footwear combination to improve walking stability in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy Duchenne muscular dystrophy is characterised by progressive muscle weakness and muscle contractures. Loss of independent walking is inevitable, and commonly occurs between the ages of six and twelve. At present, steroid treatment is the only treatment that prolongs independent walking. Children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy often toe walk to compensate for their leg weakness and so develop contractures – a loss of joint motion – initially at the ankle. As the weakness and contractures progress, balance becomes more difficult, leading to the loss of independent walking. A recent experience using a novel orthosis/footwear combination that supp
