Menu

Schedule Your Next Visit

Contact Us

foot and ankle injuriesResearchers from Carnegie Mellon University, Harvard University, the University of Southern California, MIT and Biosenses have developed a soft but wearable robotic device for patients with ankle-foot disorders, such as drop foot. The device is powered by pneumatic artificial muscle actuators beneficial for rehabbing patients.

The orthotic device uses these soft plastics and composite materials combines with pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs), sensors to achieve the realistic and natural motions in the ankle. Researchers were able to attach the device to four test subjects and found that the prototype was capable of generating an ankle range of 27 degrees sagittal motion. The device may be suitable for aiding patients with neuromuscular disorders of the feet.

If you have experienced a foot or ankle injury, there may be a variety of therapy options available to you. For help choosing one, consult podiatrist Dr. Nicholas Crismali of Crismali Foot & Ankle. Dr. Crismali can analyze your recovery and offer you advice on what therapy would be most effective. 

Most common injuries

People who are constantly on their feet are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is important to take part in physical therapy in order to get back on the right track quickly.

What to do when injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. This is important for those wanting to get back into the game quickly. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. These are some steps physical therapy often involves:

  1. Basic stretching & twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
  2. Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate and relax the muscles.
  3. Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.    

If you have any questions, please contact our offices in Hesperia, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Therapy.