Types of Orthotics
Orthotics are devices that support or “brace” a weak, deformed, or damaged part of the body. The subject of orthotics is vast and includes everything from simple arch supports to microprocessor controlled knee ankle foot orthoses. Listed are just a few of the more common orthotic devices and or areas of expertise that we offer at New Hope Prosthetics and Orthotics.
Foot Orthotics: Generally these are custom insoles that are used in the treatment of certain foot injuries or deformities. They are made of a variety of materials based on what ailment is being treated. A few of the most common issues that we treat with foot orthotics are flat feet (pes planus), plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, metatarsalgia, hammer toes, high arches (pes cavus), rheumatoid arthritis, and tendonitis.
Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO): This is any device that controls both the foot and the ankle. It is generally a custom made device that is designed from a cast impression that is taken of your leg. Newer designs are being offered in an off-the-shelf or custom to measurement option and have expanded the variety of this orthosis. AFOs are very common devices and are used to treat a wide variety of diagnoses. They come in many shapes, heights, colors, and materials. Some of the more common issues that are treated with an AFO are stroke (CVA)/foot drop, Cerebral Palsy, PTTD, severe pronation or supination, chronic ankle sprains, fractures, charcot foot deformity, talo/calcanel injuries, rheumatoid and osteo-arthritis, spasticity, high tone, toe walking, and paralysis.
Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO): This device controls movement in the knee, ankle, and foot. It is primarily a custom device that is designed from a casting of your leg. KAFOs come in many different styles and materials based on the individual's needs. These braces are most often used for treatment of paralysis or severe muscular weakness but can also be utilized when deformities or joint issues are present. Common issues treated with a KAFO include stroke/CVA, Head injury, Spinal injury, paraplegia, hemiplegia, spina bifida, severe hyperextension, and non-union fractures.
Knee Orthosis (KO): Also referred to as the Knee Brace, this device is very common and is used for the treatment of a variety of conditions of the knee. As the name implies, this orthosis focuses control over the knee only. It is often utilized to stabilize strained, sprained or repaired tendons and ligaments. The other increasingly common use of this device is for the treatment of Osteoarthritis in lieu of knee surgery or replacement. Knee braces can be custom made but are more often fit from measurements as an off the shelf item. Issues commonly treated with the use of a KO include Osteo Arthritis, medial or lateral compartment syndrome, hyperextension, ACL, PCL, LCL, or MCL injury or repair, Varus or Valgus deformity, cartilage damage
Hip Orthosis (HO): These devices can be utilized as a stand-alone device or in conjunction with a KO or a KAFO to better stabilize an affected limb. In the stand-alone option, a hip orthosis is usually used to prevent hip dislocations after hip replacement surgery. These devices are often designed or fit from measurements and rarely require that the patient be casted.
Spinal Orthosis (Back Brace): Spinal orthotics could be as simple as an elastic lower back support or as advanced as a custom CTLSO. If a condition of the spine exists, chances are there is a back brace that can be used to treat or alleviate it. The most common usage is for chronic lower back pain, but they are also used for many other more serious conditions. Common conditions treated with Spinal Orthotics are DJD, arthritis, DDD, pinched nerves, spondylolisthesis, spondylosis, bulging disk, muscle spasms, fractures, kyphosis, scoliosis, post surgical stabilization.
Upper Extremity Orthotics: We offer the widest selection of upper extremity orthotics available and are the only Saebo certified provider in the state. Our practitioners are fully trained in the nuances of the many devices to treat paralysis and contractures of the hand and wrist. Many of these devices are fit to measurement but in more advanced cases, custom casting may be required.
Common conditions treated with upper extremity orthotics include carpal tunnel, paralysis, CVA, CP, arthritis, contractures, spasticity, ulnar nerve conditions, neuropathy, shoulder dislocation, post surgical stabilization, tendon injury.
At New Hope Prosthetics and Orthotics you will not only have the best personal care in the industry but you will have access to the most advanced technology currently available. If you have questions about prosthetic limbs, orthotic services, diabetic socks, or any of our other services, explore our website. We’re conveniently located in 7 cities across Arkansas and Mississippi.