University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
About the Study This study builds on the completed IM ABLE study (DOD Award #W81XWH-16-1-0738) and addresses a critical gap in the orthotics literature: whether advanced, custom carbon-fiber AFOs offer meaningful long-term benefit over conventional AFO designs. Participants (Veterans and Service Members with lower extremity trauma) will be fit with both AFO categories, complete a structured accommodation and training period, undergo functional and patient-reported outcome testing, and be followed for approximately 14 months to assess device utilization, function, pain, and preference in real-world community settings. Minimum Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, or physics; and a graduate from a physical therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Requires Florida State Licensure as a Physical Therapist. Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct...