Individuals with hemiplegic CP often use uncomfortable prosthetic devices that limit their mobility but help them retain balance. This grant test an alternative prosthetic that may be lower profile and more effective at helping individuals regain their independence.

Initial Observations

• Individuals with hemiplegic CP (paralysis that affects one side of the body) often require prosthetic devices to retain their balance.
• These devices are bulky and uncomfortable; they limit mobility and motor learning.
• Functional electric stimulation neuropathies (prosthetic devices that use electrical stimulation to move muscles for the wearer) may be a more effective alternative.

Core Questions

Do these neuropathies help correct gait and mobility, both when worn and discarded?
Do these neuropathies help individuals engage in daily life?
Do individuals prefer to use the neuropathies or standard prosthetics?

Research Team

Dr. Amy F Bailes MS PT PCS, Dr. Jason Long PhD, Dr. Jen Schmit PhD DPT, Melissa Tremper MPT, Cailee Caldwell