OrthoPed

OrthoPed is a UK-based innovator developing a patented foot drop splint designed to help people walk more confidently, efficiently and safely. Founded by a practising physiotherapist, the business was built out of first-hand frustration with existing solutions and a determination to create something better for people living with foot drop.

By mid-2025, OrthoPed had made strong progress through laboratory testing, clinical studies and grant-funded development. The next challenge was commercial: to understand how the splint performed in the real world, how it compared to existing options, and what needed to change to maximise its appeal and impact for future users.

PFA Research was commissioned to deliver in-depth, independent insight to support these decisions.

Phase one: Understanding the lived experience

In July 2025, PFA carried out a programme of in-home depth interviews with people living with foot drop across the UK. The research explored daily challenges, emotional impacts, current coping strategies and experiences of existing products, before introducing participants to the OrthoPed splint itself.

This phase provided OrthoPed with a clear, human understanding of where current solutions fall short, how people judge value and usability, and where OrthoPed’s concept genuinely stood out. Crucially, it highlighted both strengths to protect and practical barriers that could limit uptake if left unaddressed.

The insight was grounded, honest and immediately useful. As a result, OrthoPed chose to invest further and extend the learning.

Phase two: Real-world testing over time

In autumn 2025, PFA designed and ran a follow-up ethnographic diary study with a smaller group of participants, tracking their experiences of using the splint in everyday life over a two-week period.

This second phase moved beyond first impressions to show how perceptions evolved with repeated use: what became easier, what frustrations persisted, and how confidence, comfort and mobility changed over time. The approach captured feedback in the moment, through short daily tasks and reflections, providing a richer and more realistic picture than a one-off interview could deliver.

Impact and outcome

Across both phases, PFA delivered insight that was practical, balanced and clearly prioritised. The findings helped OrthoPed refine product design, clarify positioning, and make informed decisions about next steps – not just what could be improved, but what would make the biggest difference to real users.

If you’re facing a business decision that needs clear, human insight – whether you’re refining an idea, testing a concept or planning your next move – talk to PFA Research about how we can help.