Article

Although an orthotic device of the lower limb improves the
functionality of neurological patients, anecdotally clinical experience suggests
that the compliance is rather limited. OBJECTIVES:
The aim was to determine the
satisfaction and acceptance of a lower limb orthotic device.
STUDY DESIGN: A
qualitative observational pilot study with a mix-method design. METHODS: Adult
neurological patients who had a prescribed lower limb orthotic device were
included. One published and clinically used questionnaire about satisfaction
(D-Quest) and one ad hoc constructed questionnaire about acceptance of the
orthotic device (MIRAD-ACCORT questionnaire) were used for data collection.
RESULTS: In total, 33 patients participated (28 ankle-foot orthotic device, 3
knee-ankle-foot orthotic device and 2 other types). In general, they were
satisfied about their orthotic device and the services. Less than one-fourth of
the patients had some negative comments about the 'visual aspects' and the
'ability to hide' of their orthotic device. These, however, had a lower priority
when compared with functionality, which was reported as a main advantage and is a
reason for continuing the use of their orthotic device. CONCLUSION: Patients were
satisfied in relation to their lower limb orthotic device. With regard to
acceptance, it can be concluded that factors associated with functionality and
comfort are more important than the aesthetic and psychological aspects of the
orthotic device. Clinical relevance Patients were satisfied with their lower limb
orthotic device. Some patients had some negative comments about the 'aesthetics
aspects' and the 'ability to hide' their orthotic device. However, improvements
in functionality were mostly reported as a main advantage and a reason for
continuing the use of their orthotic device.

Langue : ANGLAIS