Can a simple ankle brace help stroke survivors walk and think at the same time?

NCT ID NCT07500662

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether wearing a carbon fiber ankle foot orthosis (AFO) helps stroke survivors walk better while doing another task, like listening or carrying something. Twenty-six stroke survivors walked with and without the brace while researchers measured their walking speed, balance, and brain activity. The goal was to see if the brace reduces mental effort and improves performance during everyday multitasking.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

carbon fiber ankle foot orthosis (AFO)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help guide rehabilitation choices for stroke survivors to improve walking while multitasking.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with only 26 participants, so results may not apply to all stroke patients. It measured short-term effects, not long-term benefits.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Department Physical therapy National Cheng Kung University

    Tainan, 704, Taiwan