New shoe design to help people with foot drop after stroke
Characterization and clinical trial of a Variable Friction Shoe, a new paradigm of reduced-constraint locomotor therapy for people exhibiting foot drop due to stroke
This study is testing a special shoe that helps people with foot drop from a stroke walk more safely and naturally, making it easier for them to regain control of their steps and possibly rely less on braces.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Barbara NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Barbara, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10912048 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel Variable Friction shoe aimed at improving walking for individuals experiencing foot drop due to stroke. The shoe is designed to provide high friction during the stance phase of walking to prevent tripping, while allowing low friction during the swing phase for natural movement. Additionally, it incorporates auditory feedback to enhance therapeutic outcomes. The goal is to enable patients to regain better control over their gait and potentially reduce their reliance on traditional orthotic devices.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced foot drop as a result of a stroke.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have foot drop or those with severe mobility impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mobility and independence for patients with foot drop.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise with similar approaches, but this specific method using a Variable Friction shoe is novel.
Where this research is happening
Santa Barbara, United States
- University of California Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hawkes, Elliot Wright — University of California Santa Barbara
- Study coordinator: Hawkes, Elliot Wright
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.