Specialty Pediatric Bracing
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Foot Abduction Brace
The foot abduction brace is a common, non-invasive method used to maintain clubfoot correction following the casting phase of the Ponseti method or serial casting which involves initially manipulating the foot into a more natural position and applying a series of casts to hold the foot in place as it gradually corrects. Once the foot is properly aligned, the bracing phase help maintain the correction obtained by casting. A pair of special boots/ AFOs are attached to a bar that keeps the feet in an abducted and dorsiflexed position. The foot abduction brace, or boots and bar, is usually worn full-time for the first few months, followed by part-time use for 3-5 years during naps and nighttime, depending on the severity of the condition. This treatment helps prevent recurrence of the clubfoot, ensuring that the child’s feet remain in the correct position and prevents contractures from forming. The boots and bars approach is highly effective in achieving long-term correction of clubfoot, promoting proper foot development and walking.
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) means that the hip joint is
not well-formed. The hip socket (acetabulum) may be shallow,
resulting in looseness or instability of the ball joint of the thigh bone
(femoral head) within the hip socket. The degree of looseness or
instability varies, from looseness in the socket (subluxation) to
complete dislocation.Treatment with a Pavlik Harness or Hip Abduction Brace (HAB):
- A Pavlik Harness is a soft harness used to treat DDH in infants typically up to 6 months of age. The harness works by holding your baby’s hip joints in an abducted and flexed position, but still allows their legs to move.
- A HAB is a rigid brace made of plastic, foam, and Velcro. It is typically used for children ages six months and older. It is also used to treat DDH by holding your baby’s hip joint(s) in the correct position. It keeps your baby’s legs out to sides (in abduction) and allows the knees to bend freely. In this position your baby’s hip socket(s) can be encouraged to develop properly.
Supramalleolar Orthosis
A Supramalleolar Orthosis (SMO) is a type of custom-made foot and ankle brace designed for individuals with more severe foot deformities and mild to moderate ankle instability or misalignment. The SMO fits around the ankle just above the malleoli (the bony prominences on either side of the ankle) and helps control foot biomechanics and improves foot positioning during walking. It is often used to treat conditions such as low tone, midfoot break, or mild foot drop. SMOs are typically made from lightweight, flexible materials that allow for more natural movement while still offering support. This makes them a popular choice for children or individuals who need more support than a foot orthosis but allows for a greater range of support around the ankle than an AFO.
Help Your Child Move Freely and Confidently
Give your child the support they need with custom pediatric braces. Schedule Your Consultation today, and let’s take the first step toward better mobility and independence.
Orthos Orthopaedic Solutions Inc. is a leading provider of custom-made ankle foot orthosis and state-of-the-art neuromuscular and skeletal devices that enhance mobility and expedite recovery for individuals facing orthopedic challenges. Based in New Westminster, we serve clients across New Westminster, Coquitlam, Surrey, Burnaby, Abbotsford, Vancouver, Langley, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, and Richmond.