1/3. Dokuz Eylul University (DEU) orthosis: an orthotic method of preventing ankle equinus during tibial lengthening.An orthosis developed in Dokuz Eylul University (DEU) at the School of Physical Therapy and rehabilitation, Department of Orthotics and Prostheticsis is described. It is applied as a non-invasive device attached to the distal ring of the Ilizarov external fixator to keep the ankle joint in a neutral position and prevent ankle equinus during tibial lengthening with ilizarov technique. This minimises additional invasive techniques such as heel cord release and prophylactic pinning of the heel and the foot, and manipulation under anaesthesia. It may also be detached by the physiotherapist or patient when physical therapy is needed during the lengthening procedure.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = physical (Clic here for more details about this article) |
2/3. Managing equinus in a child with cerebral palsy: merits of hinged ankle-foot orthoses.A comparison of hinged versus solid ankle orthoses in a child with moderate spastic diplegia demonstrated that solid ankle braces blocked needed foot and ankle mobility. The loss of movement forced the child to use extraneous movement patterns in order to move the upper body over the foot. These iatrogenically induced deviations were considered reasons for surgery. When ankle and foot mobility were increased by the use of hinged ankle braces, the gait improved and with physical therapy the reasons for surgery were removed. This case study shows that significant biomechanical changes can be achieved by simply switching from solid to articulated or hinged ankle-foot orthoses.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = physical (Clic here for more details about this article) |
3/3. Managing equinus in children with cerebral palsy: electrical stimulation to strengthen the triceps surae muscle.A new therapeutic proposal for the management of equinus in children with cerebral palsy is to strengthen the calf muscles instead of weakening them surgically. Prior research indicates that in children with cerebral palsy the triceps surae muscle is weak and needs strengthening. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) was used as an adjunct to physical therapy. A portable NMES unit with a hand-held remote switch stimulated an active muscle gait cycle. Results are discussed for four children, who showed improved gait, balance, posture, active and passive ankle range of motion, and foot alignment. The toe walkers became plantigrade and the equinovalgus posture of the foot decreased. Spasticity did not increase.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = physical (Clic here for more details about this article) |