Application of an adjustable medical foot support pillow to prevent foot drop in patients with stroke

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Foot drop is one of the most common complications after stroke.

OBJECTIVE:

This study investigates the role of an adjustable medical foot support pillow in preventing foot drop and improving the lower limb function of patients after stroke.

METHODS:

A total of 88 patients with strokes admitted to our hospital from September 2019 to September 2020 were selected and categorised into the control ( $n=$ 44) and intervention groups ( $n=$ 44) using a random number table. The control group received routine rehabilitation nursing, while the intervention group adopted a self-made adjustable medical foot support pillow based on routine rehabilitation nursing. After four weeks, the simplified Fugl Meyer Assessment (FMA) and the modified activities of daily living (ADL) scales were used to measure the ankle range of motion of the lower limbs. The lower limb motor function, ADL, and ankle mobility before and after treatment, as well as the incidence of foot ptosis, were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS:

After the procedure, the intervention group was superior to the control group in the FMA score of the lower extremities, ADL score, and ankle joint mobility in the lower limbs, indicating statistically significant differences ( $P<$ 0.05). The incidence rate of foot drop was lower in the intervention group than in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant ( $P<$ 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The adjustable medical foot support pillow can prevent foot drop in patients after stroke, improve lower limb function, provide a favourable basis for walking training, and improve the ADL of patients.