Orthoses for Neurological Ankles: Difference between revisions
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An orthosis is a device that ''supports'' residual function. This is in contrast to a prosthesis which is a device that ''replaces'' function. Orthoses provide support to prevent joint movement past normal or target range. | An orthosis is a device that ''supports'' residual function. This is in contrast to a prosthesis which is a device that ''replaces'' function. Orthoses provide support to prevent joint movement past normal or target range. | ||
== Basic Principles == | |||
They can be used in a wide variety of clinical scenarios, including: | They can be used in a wide variety of clinical scenarios, including: | ||
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When prescribing an orthosis, functional aspects such as abnormal movement, posture, and range of motion are more important than the underlying disease process. It is also important to consider aspects of [[gait]] and the specific phase or phases of impairment. | When prescribing an orthosis, functional aspects such as abnormal movement, posture, and range of motion are more important than the underlying disease process. It is also important to consider aspects of [[gait]] and the specific phase or phases of impairment. | ||
== Swing Phase == | |||
Disorders of swing phase include [[Foot Drop|foot drop]] due to dorsiflexor weakness (e.g. peroneal neuropathy) or spasticity of the plantarflexors. With the latter the orthosis needs to be more precisely fit as greater forces are required. For the former a DIY or over the counter solution can work well e.g. a simple elastic foot lifter. | |||
== Resources == | == Resources == | ||
Revision as of 19:05, 6 January 2023
An orthosis is a device that supports residual function. This is in contrast to a prosthesis which is a device that replaces function. Orthoses provide support to prevent joint movement past normal or target range.
Basic Principles
They can be used in a wide variety of clinical scenarios, including:
- Patients who cannot ambulate to help with correct ankle positioning to allow for standing and help with standing transfers
- Prevent further loss of range of movement for example in bed-bound patients and in high muscle tone
- Patients with loss of range of movement by applying a sustained stretch
When prescribing an orthosis, functional aspects such as abnormal movement, posture, and range of motion are more important than the underlying disease process. It is also important to consider aspects of gait and the specific phase or phases of impairment.
Swing Phase
Disorders of swing phase include foot drop due to dorsiflexor weakness (e.g. peroneal neuropathy) or spasticity of the plantarflexors. With the latter the orthosis needs to be more precisely fit as greater forces are required. For the former a DIY or over the counter solution can work well e.g. a simple elastic foot lifter.
