Patient Video Diaries

The following files are very large, MPEG (video) files and will require the appropriate software (such as Windows Media Player or RealOne Player) to view them. They will take some time to load on a 56k modem connection but are well worth a look if you would like to see how effective they are in real life. If you experience any problems a CD is available by completing our contact sheet.

Clip 1 (4.2Mb)

This patient has been diagnosed with Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) type 1 a hereditary genetic disorder that has left the patient with drop foot and a general weakness in both lower limbs as well as weakness in her hands. The patient attended our clinic after being told she would have to wear rigid plastic AFOs which she felt would be more of a hindrance than a help. Since being supplied with a pair of SAFOs, the patient has enjoyed an active lifestyle with huge improvements to her walking and quality of life.

Clip 2(3.5Mb)

This patient came to us with a Peroneal Nerve Injury to his right foot and ankle due to a road traffic accident. The patient had been wearing a made to measure rigid plastic AFO. This clip shows him walking briefly bare foot and then with the SAFO and shoes. He had found that the rigid AFO didn’t allow him to walk symmetrically, straight away, the SAFO made him feel more comfortable and “free”.

Clips 3 (7.3Mb) & 4 (5.2Mb)

This patient also had a Peroneal Nerve Injury causing drop foot, she does however have active plantar flexion of the foot. When she came to us, she had given up wearing a rigid plastic splint because it was too uncomfortable. The clips show her walking bare foot and with a SAFO and shoes on. You may be able to spot the gap which appears at the front of the SAFO at toe off. The patient has a tight Achilles Tendon which acts against the elasticity in the silicone.