Observational StudyCharacterization and Clinical Trial of a Variable Friction Shoe

Inclusion Criteria:

1. At least 3 months poststroke
2. Age 18 or older
3. Possess a prescribed AFO or be a potential candidate for use of an AFO
4. Can ambulate at least 10m with or without an assistive device such as a cane or walker
5. Medically stable as determined by physician medical clearance
6. No expected change in medications for at least 3 months
7. Adequate stability at the ankle during stance
8. Ability to hear clicking noise made by the VF shoe
9. Physician approval
10. Ability to give informed consent
11. Able to sit unsupported and be able to follow a three-step command
12. No unhealed/unresolved orthopedic injury to either upper or lower extremity and no history of severe back pain
13. English speaking
14. Willing to follow an exercise program with both devices for at least 30 minutes per day, at least 5 days per week for the full length of the program (6 months)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of falling more than once a week prior to the stroke
2. Gait speed: self-selected velocity (SSV) greater than 1.2 m/s
3. Inability to operate in the devices safely and no caregiver assistance available
4. Morbid obesity (body mass index >40 kg/m2)
5. Preexisting conditions such as serious cardiac conditions, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, demand pacemaker, seizures, excessive dysesthetic pain, and severe lower extremity pathology that would interfere with fit or use of the shoe.
6. Severe deficits in cognition or communication
7. Pregnant women (status determined by self-reporting).
8. Co-morbidity that interferes with the study (e.g. significant arthritis or joint problems, history of back injury, neuromuscular disorders, epilepsy, etc.).
9. Severe Osteoporosis (status determined by self-reporting).
10. Prisoners
11. Not currently receiving botox to the lower extremities.