The Effects of Footplate Stiffness on Foot Loading Within Carbon Fiber Custom Dynamic Orthoses
Carbon fiber custom dynamic orthoses (CDOs) improve function, reduce pain, and offload the foot and ankle. CDOs include a proximal cuff that wraps around the leg just below the knee, a posterior carbon fiber strut that bends to store and return energy, and a semi-rigid carbon fiber footplate. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of CDO use and CDO footplate stiffness on foot loading, limb mechanics, pain, and comfort.
• Between the ages of 18 and 65
• Healthy without current complaint of lower extremity pain, spine pain, open wounds or active infections, or medical or neuromusculoskeletal disorders that have limited their participation in work or exercise in the last 6 months
• Able to hop without pain
• Able to perform a full squat without pain
• Ability to read and write in English and provide written informed consent
• Ability to fit in a generic sized CDO