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AxioBionics WalkAide - Functional Electrical Stimulation System for Foot Drop

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The WalkAide is a specialized neuroprosthetic device designed to address foot drop, a condition often resulting from interrupted communication between the brain and muscles that control foot movement. By employing Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), the device restores this communication by sending targeted electrical impulses to the peroneal nerve. These impulses are crucial for activating the muscles responsible for lifting the foot, thereby facilitating a smoother and safer walking experience. Unlike traditional bracing, the WalkAide allows for unrestricted movement, promoting enhanced muscle health through reduced atrophy and improved range of motion. Patients undergo a detailed evaluation to ascertain suitability for the device, which may necessitate partnering with physical therapists to refine gait mechanics. If unsuitable, alternative solutions such as AxioBionics' TripleFlex or custom orthotics are available to address foot drop. The FES systems offered are integral in providing a better quality of mobility and helping patients regain flexibility naturally.

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Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) puts muscles back in control of movement, the way they're supposed to work.

AxioBionics is recognized by Innovative Neurotronics as both a "Premier" and "Pediatric" Provider of the WalkAide® Neuroprosthesis.

FES is a rehabilitation technique that generates patterns of electrical stimulation in muscles of the limbs and trunk that are coordinated in such a way as to produce purposeful movement.

Move the way you want - regain your flexibility

FES systems are designed to control muscles that are weak or paralyzed from neurological injury or disease and therefore lack the ability to contract appropriately on their own.

Unlike bracing, FES allows limbs to move freely without restriction and this may feel more natural to the patient. Besides increased function, FES promotes a healthier muscle with less atrophy and better range of motion.

Examples of FES systems offered by AxioBionics are:

  1. WalkAide® (muscles are triggered by a tilt sensor inside the device)
  2. freeSTEP™ (muscles are triggered by a heel switch placed inside the shoe)

WalkAide - It's Time to Improve Your Mobility

WalkAide is an advanced medical device that may provide immediate and dramatic improvement in walking for patients with foot drop.

Interruption of the natural nerve-to-muscle communication between the brain and the leg inhibits one’s ability to lift the foot naturally. WalkAide replaces this communication by sending electrical signals to the peroneal nerve, which controls movement in the ankle and foot. These gentle electrical impulses activate the muscles to raise the foot at the appropriate time during each step. The result is a smoother, more natural and safer walking motion.

Patients are evaluated for FES devices before they are determined to be a candidate.

Evaluations require at least one or more visits and possibly a home trial. Patients may be asked to undergo a comparative gait analysis walking barefoot, with orthosis and with FES.

FES walking devices are not for everyone. Patients must meet a select criteria and demonstrate the ability to walk well with the device. Training with a physical therapist may be necessary in some cases to ensure safety and to optimize gait characteristics.

If it is determined that the patient is not a candidate for FES, AxioBionics offers other novel foot drop corrective solutions.