Objective
To compare the immediate effects of walking training without or with an ankle support device (ASD) on spatiotemporal gait parameters, mobility, and satisfaction among 20 ambulatory participants with chronic stroke.
Methods
This crossover design required the participants to complete the four 30-minute walking training conditions in a randomized order: without ASD, with ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), with long ankle sling made from 3- to 4-inch elastic bandage, and with elastic ankle support equipment (EASE) developed from elastic bands with buttonholes and plastic rivets, with a 7-day washout period. Gait parameters and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) were measured before and after each training program, and satisfaction with the three ASDs was assessed upon completion.
Results
Spatiotemporal parameters (except walking cadence and symmetry) and TUG after training with a long ankle sling and EASE were significantly better than those following training without ASD and with AFO (p<0.001). Participants satisfied with both elastic ASDs in terms of dimensions, weight, safety, comfort, and effectiveness (p<0.001). The EASE was also satisfied for its ease of application and adjustment. The AFO was durable and easy to use but heavy, uncomfortable, and unsafe.
Conclusion
The elastic ASDs were designed to assist ankle movements during the stance and swing phases. Thus, they improved walking and mobility of the participants significantly greater than the training with AFO and without ASD. The findings suggest the use of a long ankle sling and EASE as an alternative ASD to promote mobility of ambulatory individuals with chronic stroke.

Objective
To compare the walking ability, mobility, and satisfaction among 24 ambulatory participants with stroke while walking under four conditions: without an ankle support device (ASD), with a plastic ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), and with two types of elastic ASDs— namely, a long ankle sling made from a 3- to 4-inch bandage, and elastic ankle support equipment (EASE) made from elastic bands with buttonholes and rivet buttons.
Methods
This crossover design study assessed spatiotemporal gait variables and mobility using the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) while participants walked under the four conditions in random order. They then completed a self-report questionnaire regarding satisfaction with the three ASDs. The findings were compared using the Friedman and Wilcoxon signed rank test.
Results
The participants’ spatiotemporal and TUG data improved significantly when walking with a long ankle sling and EASE compared to the other two conditions (p<0.05). Participants satisfied with the dimensions, weight, safety, security, and effectiveness of the long ankle sling and EASE (p<0.001). The EASE was also comfortable and easy to adjust, whereas the AFO was noted for its durability (p<0.01).
Conclusion
With the design to promote mobility during both the swing and stance phases, the present findings support the clinical benefits of elastic ASDs, specifically a long ankle sling and EASE. The EASE is also user-friendly; thus, it can be applied in various clinical and community settings, particularly in those with limited budget.

Citations

• Immediate Effects of Walking Training With Elastic Ankle Support Devices on Walking and Mobility of Ambulatory Individuals With Stroke
  Thaksin Chanata, Sugalya Amatachaya, Teerawat Nithiatthawanon, Jirabhorn Wannapakhe, Wannapai Chanwised, Arpassanan Wiyanad, Thiwabhorn Thaweewanakij, Wilairat Namwong
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2026; 50(4): 278.     CrossRef