Orthotics Flashcards
What is orthotics?
The science that deals with the use of specialised mechanical devices to support or supplement weakened or abnormal joints or limbs
What is an orthosis?
An externally applied device (may also be called a brace, splint or orthotic)
Who is an orthotist?
A registered health care professiona who specialises in the assessment of the whole body for biomechanical problems and if appropriate may prescribe, measure, fit or review an orthosis
List the 6 types of lower limb orthotic
Foot orthosis Footwear AFO - Ankle Foot Orthosis KO - Knee Orthosis KAFO - Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis HKAFO - Hip Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis
What is a valgus deformity?
Everted position in the frontal plane
What is a varus deformity?
Inverted position in the frontal plane
What is an equinus deformity?
Plantarflexed position in sagittal plane
What is a foot orthosis?
A moulded walking base used inside footwear (insoles and heel cups)
What can foot orthoses be used for?
Re-distribution and reduction of plantar pressure Relieve pain Improve function Prevent structural deformity Correct mobile deformity Accommodate fixed deformity Limit or prevent joint motion
What is a mobile foot deformity?
The foot can be manipulated into a ‘normal’ alignment
What is a fixed foot deformity?
The foot cannot be manipulated into a ‘normal’ alignment
How does the use of foot orthoses differ in mobile or fixed deformity?
Mobile = foot orthosis to CORRECT deformity Fixed = foot orthosis to ACCOMMODATE deformity
What is involved in the physical assessment before prescribing an orthotic?
ROM Muscle Powers Sensation Proprioception Circulation Muscle tone
How does a foot orthosis correct a valgus deformity?
Manipulate corrected position and hold foot by applying 3 point forces - MEDIAL wedge on insole or footwear
How does a foot orthosis accommodate a valgus deformity?
Accept foot position and accommodate to achieve greater stability - LATERAL wedge on insole or footwear
How does a foot orthosis correct a varus deformity?
Manipulate corrected position and hold foot by applying 3 point forces - LATERAL wedge on insole or footwear
How does a foot orthosis accommodate a varus deformity?
Accept foot position and accommodate to achieve greater stability - MEDIAL wedge on insole or footwear
What is an equinus deformity?
Plantarflexed position in the sagittal plane
How is an equinus deformity corrected with foot orthoses?
Manipulate corrected position and hold foot by applying 3 point forces
Is equinus normally a fixed or mobile deformity?
Fixed
What is it important to ensure when fixing an equinus deformity with a foot orthossi?
Ensure knee is not made unstable (can cause hyperextension)
How is an equinus deformity accomodated with foor orthoses?
Heel raise - following the contour of the foot and ensurring the knee is nto made unstable
What can happen if the equinus is not adequately accomodated?
Knee hyperextension
What additional treatment may be required alongside equinus foot orthosis?
Compensatory heel raise in contralateral shoe
What footwear design features are good for an insensate foot?
Soft leather upper Few internal seams Padded tongues and cuffs Lace/velcro fastening Wide and deep toe box Rocker soles
Name 4 ways in which footwear can be adapted
Raises
Wedges
Flares
Rocker soles
What is the purpose of a shoe/heel raise?
To accommodate fixed equinus foot or leg length discrepancy
What are the purposes of shoe wedges?
Correct mobile or accommodaye fixed varus/valgus foot