The 'shape&roll' prosthetic foot: II. Field testing in El Salvador.

A field test was performed in El Salvador to evaluate the usefulness of the Shape&Roll prosthetic foot, a foot developed for low-income countries, involving 12 participants. Quantitative gait parameters were measured with a Direct Ultrasound Ranging System (DURS). Qualitative information was obtained from questionnaires administered before and after a three-week trial. The results indicate that the Shape&Roll foot widened the speed range of all participants. According to the questionnaires, the Shape&Roll foot eases walking, enabling participants to walk significantly longer distances. The participants rated its roll-over as very natural and smooth, resulting in a self-perceived reduced walking effort. Handling inclined and uneven surfaces was also rated superior to their current Solid Ankle Cushioned Heel (SACH)-like feet.