Foundations Lecture

Question 1

What is an orthosis?

Answer 1

Externally applied device used to modify the structural or functional characteristics of the neuromuscular system

External appliance worn to restrict or assist motion or to transfer load from one area to another

Question 2

What is the general function of a static orthosis?

Answer 2

Allows for motion to occur and support joint alignment

Question 3

What is the general function of a dynamic orthosis?

Answer 3

Assist with a motion

Question 4

What is a splint?

Answer 4

Temporary device that only has static properties

Question 5

What is a CO?

Answer 5

Certified orthotist

Question 6

What is a CPO?

Answer 6

Certified orthotist prosthetist

Question 7

What is the primary indication to use an orthosis?

Answer 7

Improve function

Question 8

What are the five main ways to improve function with an orthosis?

Answer 8

1. Immobilize and protect weak, painful, or healing body region
2. Relieve pain by limiting ROM and weight bearing
3. Reduce axial load
4. Prevent or correct a deformity
5. Enhance motor control function

Question 9

What are the three ways to improve comfort?

Answer 9

Maximize contact, make sure the fit is snug, leverage

Question 10

What is the effect of changing the length of the lever?

Answer 10

As the lever arm increases, the forces decrease and disperse over a greater surface area with can increase comfort

Question 11

What forces can be controlled with an orthosis?

Answer 11

Tension, compression, shear, torsion, ground reaction force

Question 12

What system controls tensile and compressive forces?

Answer 12

Three-point pressure system

Question 13

What is a three-point pressure system?

Answer 13

Involves a primary force on one side that is counterbalanced by two secondary forces on the opposite side both proximally and distally

Question 14

What are the three forces involved in valgus prevention at the knee?

Answer 14

1. Primary force applied medially and directed laterally at the joint line
2. Secondary force applied laterally at the proximal thigh and directed medially
3. Secondary force applied distally at lateral leg and directed medially

Question 15

What are the three forces that control plantarflexion while wearing an orthosis?

Answer 15

1. Primary force originates anteriorly at the ankle strap and is directed posterior and inferior
2. Secondary force originates posteriorly at the superior trim line and is directed anteriorly
3. Secondary force originates inferior from the orthosis at the MPT and is directed superiorly

Question 16

What are the three forces that control dorsiflexion while wearing an orthosis?

Answer 16

1. Primary force originates posteriorly at the heel cup and is directed anterior and superior
2. Secondary force originates anteriorly at the superior leg strap and is directed posterior
3. Secondary force originates superior at the forefoot strap or shoe and is directed inferiorly

Question 17

What system controls shear force?

Answer 17

Four-point pressure system

Question 18

Compare and contrast a shorter and longer lever arm

Answer 18

Shorter lever arm = more force
Longer lever arm = less force, better control

Question 19

What is a flexible deformity?

Answer 19

Alignment of the body part can be corrected to a neutral or optimal position

Question 20

What is a rigid deformity?

Answer 20

Patient is not able to be positioned into neutral alignment, but can have motion

Question 21

What is a static orthosis?

Answer 21

Maintains the joint position

Can allow for movement, but does not provide assist to the movement

Question 22

What is a dynamic orthosis?

Answer 22

Mechanically facilitates active movement, provides assist

Question 23

What are the three main types of orthotics based on material?

Answer 23

Plastic, metal, or hybrid

Question 24

The terms rigid, semirigid, and flexible orthotics apply only to which body regions?

Answer 24

Spine and knee

Question 25

What is the alignment of a bar?

Answer 25

Vertical

Question 26

What is the alignment of a band?

Answer 26

Horizontal

Question 27

What type of orthosis contains both bars and bands?

Answer 27

Rigid

Question 28

What type of orthosis contains either bars or bands?

Answer 28

Semirigid

Question 29

What type of orthosis contains neither bars nor bands?

Answer 29

Flexible