Orthotics

Question 1

What are the characteristics of an ideal orthosis?

Answer 1

• controlling
• comfortable
• cost
• adaptability
• timing
• cosmesis

Question 2

Most important aspect of an orthosis

Answer 2

control

Question 3

How does an orthotic create stability through control for a flexible deformity?

Answer 3

correction - trying to change it

Question 4

How does an orthotic create stability through control for a fixed deformity?

Answer 4

accommodation - build up to the deformity

Question 5

Things to consider with orthotic comfort?

Answer 5

• temperature (needs to breathe)
• easy to don/doff
• avoids skin breakdown

Question 6

Things to consider with cost

Answer 6

• energy

- monetary

Question 7

What can happen if you’ve created a super stable position in stance with an orthotic to gait? (cost)

Answer 7

could add so much weight the pt can’t move far without getting exhausted

Question 8

orthotics: planning ahead and cost

Answer 8

• AFO with built up plastic can be cut down as the pt improves
• think ahead to what you expect them to be able to do

Question 9

cost of materials: impact of weight on orthosis

Answer 9

does the person require state of the material for stability?

• 100lb pt vs 500 lb pt
• heavier pt would cause the plastic to become deformed

Question 10

orthosis prescription and timing: What do you need to consider?

Answer 10

• when is the best time to get orthoses for the pt?
• wait until after a bit of therapy and see if you can strengthen and avoid getting too many
• no perfect answer on how long to wait

Question 11

orthoses: Which group is cosmesis important for?

Answer 11

pediatrics: kid might wear it more if it has something they like on it

Question 12

Along with the cosmesis aspects of an orthosis, what else is important to consider (clothing)

Answer 12

think old-school knee immobilizer vs. low profile plastic

• can you get clothes over it?
• can it fit inside a shoe or does it attach to the outside?

Question 13

What are the big picture purposes for putting an orthosis on people?

Answer 13

1. stabilize or immobilize
2. maintain or correct alignment
3. protect against injury
4. prevent/decrease likelihood of deformity (ex. RA)
5. assist with function (tenodesis splints)