Orthoses (footwear insoles) or braces support or restrict joints and are often used after surgery to prevent strain and further injury. They can also be used to enhance sporting performance. Some orthoses are designed, manufactured and fitted to suit the patient, while others are standard sizes and designs. Padded and elasticated braces can also be used.
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Benefits
Orthotics and braces help to:
- Aid rehabilitation of fractures after the cast has been removed
- Control, guide, limit or immobilise a joint or part of the body
- Restrict or assist movement
- Reduce weight-bearing forces
- Correct the shape and/or function of the body, to provide easier movement or reduce pain
- Aid performance in sport
How it works
An orthosis is an externally applied device that is used to modify the structure and function of bones and muscles. If we have experienced ongoing pain or abnormal function in a part of our body, the rest of our body adapts which can lead to further pain. Orthoses are designed to correct the function and movement of the affected part of the body to train our bodies to perform normally again. Custom orthoses are designed and manufactured for each individual patient, based on the core principles of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, biomechanics and engineering.
Risk factors
There are virtually no risk factors associated with orthotics and braces.
What are Orthotics and Braces used to treat?
There are a number of different types of orthoses and braces for different conditions.
1.Foot orthoses: These are worn inside the shoe to modify the forces acting on the sole of the foot. They help the foot and lower limbs to function more normally and decrease the chance of damage to the foot, lower limbs, hips and spine during weight-bearing activities.
There are standard orthoses which are made in average sizes and shapes to match the most common foot types. There are also custom-made foot orthoses, which are individually designed and made using a 3D representation of the foot, created from a scan, negative casting or compressible foam impressions.
There are different types of foot orthoses, which perform different functions:
- Functional foot orthoses correct abnormal foot function and abnormal lower limb function. They are made from flexible rigid or semi-rigid plastic or graphite and easily fit into most types of shoes.
- Accommodative foot orthoses are used to relieve pressure from painful or injured areas on the bottom of the foot – for example diabetic ulcers.
- Functional/accommodative foot orthoses combine both functions.
2.Lower limb orthoses: These are external devices attached to a lower limb. They provide support, control motion, reduce pain, and correct deformities and prevent them from progressing. Lower limb orthoses include:
- Knee orthoses: for conditions such as osteoarthritis; moderate to severe anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injuries and collateral ligament instability.
- Knee ankle and foot orthoses: for conditions such as cerebral palsy, Multiple Sclerosis and knee instability.
3.Spinal orthoses: These are designed for patients with spinal injury to assist with rehabilitation. They include:
- Spinal brace: to maintain alignment of the spine and provide stability.
- Resting orthoses: for use overnight and while resting during the day. To maintain muscle length and range.
4.Shoulder orthoses: These are designed for neuromuscular stabilisation of the shoulder joint.
5.Hand and wrist orthoses: These are designed to support the wrist and stabilise the wrist and thumb.
6.Knee, hip and thigh orthoses: These provide active support and stabilisation for the knee, hip and thigh.
7.Orthopaedic shoes: Orthopaedic footwear can help to support people with a wide range of different health conditions including:
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lymph oedema
- Forefoot deformities
- Users of lower limb orthotics
- Blisters and prevention of blisters during sports
Who they help
Some orthoses are designed to provide relief from the pain of illness and injury while others provide support and protection during sports.
FAQ’s
Should I use my foot orthotics continuously?
Your feet and legs may have been functioning abnormally for many years and it may take a little time to correct this. Wearing an orthotic all day every day is not recommended at first. It is better to build up by around an hour each day to allow your body time to adapt.
How long do orthotics last?
On average they last around five years, although they can last much longer. Some orthotics are made from softer, foam materials and these tend to last for a shorter time, typically around 12 months.
Is it right for the orthotic to feel uncomfortable?
Your body will take a little time to adapt to the orthotic and there may be a degree of discomfort at first. However, the orthotic shouldn’t be consistently uncomfortable. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing ongoing discomfort.
Personal outcomes – what to expect
Each year, the use of Orthotics and braces enables thousands of patients to enjoy an active life, free of chronic pain.
Our patient-care process
- Once all of your diagnostic procedures are completed, we will be able to explain whether surgery is recommended.
- We will go through the procedures with you, covering the operation itself, the recovery process and the future prospects.
- Your orthopaedic surgeon will also explain the risks: these are small, but it is important for you to understand them.
- You can feel reassured that you will receive expert care from the start of the process, including your after-care.
Other useful information
Orthosis and brace specialists that we work with include:
Anglia Orthotics Consulting
Bauerfeind UK
DJO Global
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If you are experiencing pain in your pelvis, hip, knee or ankle, or are suffering from a sports injury, seek specialist help to get you back to living your life. Contact can be made direct, or through your GP.
Email:
enquiries@carrothersorthopaedics.co.uk
Phone:
+ 44 (0) 1223 667 376.