Brace (orthopaedic): Difference between revisions
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An '''orthopaedic brace''' (also orthosis or orthotic) is a device used to: |
An '''orthopaedic brace''' (also orthosis or orthotic) is a device used to: |
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*immobilize a [[joint]] or body segment, |
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*restrict movement in a given direction, |
*restrict movement in a given direction, |
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*assist movement, |
*assist movement, |
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Most often in the [[United States|U.S.]], the last purpose listed above is what persons call in common speech a '''brace''', whether it is made from [[elastic]], [[neoprene]], or a stiffer, more restrictive construction such as hard [[plastic]] or [[metal]]. An '''orthotic''' is most often understood to be a somewhat flexible device, often an insert for shoes, to [[correct leg length]], fallen arches (flat feet), or some other foot problem. |
Most often in the [[United States|U.S.]], the last purpose listed above is what persons call in common speech a '''brace''', whether it is made from [[elastic]], [[neoprene]], or a stiffer, more restrictive construction such as hard [[plastic]] or [[metal]]. An '''orthotic''' is most often understood to be a somewhat flexible device, often an insert for shoes, to [[correct leg length]], fallen arches (flat feet), or some other foot problem. |
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In the UK a brace of this kind is usually referred to as a [[caliper]], or sometimes |
In the UK a brace of this kind is usually referred to as a [[caliper]], or sometimes misspelled as [[calliper]]. Often the older type of leg brace is meant, constructed of steel side bars and ring, with spurs which fit into a metal tube in the heel of an adapted shoe or boot, and with leather straps and bands around the leg to hold the splint in position. The straps can be secured with [[velcro]] but many patients prefer buckles. This type of [[caliper]] can be either non-weight relieving or, by slight lengthening, made to relieve weight by raising the heel of the foot away from the heel of the shoe or boot. These splints have to be individually made by an [[orthotist]] or appliance maker, closely to fit the particular contours of the leg being supported. |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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*[[Forrest Gump]] (a movie about a fictional character who had leg braces as a child) |
*[[Forrest Gump]] (a movie about a fictional character who had leg braces as a child) |
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*[[Polio]] a disease that resulted in many children and adults having to use leg and other braces. |
*[[Polio]] a disease that resulted in many children and adults having to use leg and other braces. |
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*[[Abasiophilia]] a psycho-sexual condition resulting in a |
*[[Abasiophilia]] a psycho-sexual condition resulting in a fascination with orthopaedic braces and their users. |
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[[Category:orthopedics]] |
[[Category:orthopedics]] |
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Revision as of 17:46, 15 January 2007
An orthopaedic brace (also orthosis or orthotic) is a device used to:
- immobilize a joint or body segment,
- restrict movement in a given direction,
- assist movement,
- reduce weight-bearing forces, or
- correct the shape of the body.
(adapted from Rehabilitation Medicine, ISBN 0-397-50764-X)
Most often in the U.S., the last purpose listed above is what persons call in common speech a brace, whether it is made from elastic, neoprene, or a stiffer, more restrictive construction such as hard plastic or metal. An orthotic is most often understood to be a somewhat flexible device, often an insert for shoes, to correct leg length, fallen arches (flat feet), or some other foot problem.
In the UK a brace of this kind is usually referred to as a caliper, or sometimes misspelled as calliper. Often the older type of leg brace is meant, constructed of steel side bars and ring, with spurs which fit into a metal tube in the heel of an adapted shoe or boot, and with leather straps and bands around the leg to hold the splint in position. The straps can be secured with velcro but many patients prefer buckles. This type of caliper can be either non-weight relieving or, by slight lengthening, made to relieve weight by raising the heel of the foot away from the heel of the shoe or boot. These splints have to be individually made by an orthotist or appliance maker, closely to fit the particular contours of the leg being supported.
See also
- Dental brace
- Forrest Gump (a movie about a fictional character who had leg braces as a child)
- Polio a disease that resulted in many children and adults having to use leg and other braces.
- Abasiophilia a psycho-sexual condition resulting in a fascination with orthopaedic braces and their users.