An ankle-foot orthosis can improve the ankle and knee kinematics, kinetics and energy cost of walking in stroke survivors.

The (A) placebo, (B) counterforce elbow strap, (C) counterforce elbow sleeve, and (D) wrist splint.

The results provide initial evidence of the potential of 'active TENS' to benefit physical function after stroke which warrants further phase II trials to develop the intervention. Concerns that stimulation could have a detrimental impact on balance and increase risk of falls were not supported.