Orthotics

Abstract

Most patients affected by paraplegia or tetraplegia have severe physical disability needing the assistance of exterior splints and appliances knows as orthoses. The prescription of an orthotic device or orthoses must be undertaken with the same precision and care as the prescription of any drug. Orthoses commonly in use can be divided into two major groups: the dynamic and the static. Static orthoses are those which hold limbs in a firm position and are usually made of rigid materials such as plaster, wood, wire, polyethylene, plastic, or metal. Dynamic splints are those designed for mobility and have a series of hinges with attachments allowing the patient to move in one direction with elastic recoil in another. They also include mechanisms of mobility such as the wheelchair, the stand-alone frame, and power-operated chairs of many types. Finally, all aids to daily living can be considered as orthoses.