POAT Unit 4: UE Orthosis

Question 1

With Orthotic Considerations, what will longer resistance arms lead to?

Answer 1

Less force required for needed torque

Question 2

With Orthotic Considerations, what will Adequate effort arm length and depth lead to?

Answer 2

Increased comfort

Question 3

With Orthotic Considerations, what will longer and broader effort arms lead to?

Answer 3

Increased force

Question 4

Why is Angle of Application Important?

Answer 4

Maximizes therapeutic effect of external forces
- 90° is most optimal

Question 5

What is compressive stress?

Answer 5

Forces pushing toward each other

Question 6

What is Shear Stress?

Answer 6

Forces parallel to surface

Question 7

What is Tensile Stress?

Answer 7

Forces pulling away from each other

Question 8

With Thermoplastic Materials, what are the characteristics of Comformability and stretch resistance material?

Answer 8

This refers to the degree a heated material will mold to its intended shape and resistance is the degree to which its able to counteract the forces placed on it

Think about the orthosis we did in class

Question 9

With Thermoplastic Materials, what are the characteristics of Memory material?

Answer 9

The degree that a material is able to return back to its original shape
- This allows more room for modification
- Good for novice PTs

Question 10

With Thermoplastic Materials, what are the characteristics of Rigidity material?

Answer 10

The stiffness or strength of a material
- Highly rigid brace is recommended when the stress will be place on the brace is significant

Question 11

With Thermoplastic Materials, what are the characteristics of Bonding material?

Answer 11

The ability of the material to adhere to itself when heated
- The main reason to use bonding material is to attach outriggers or when trying to reinforce a specific spot

Question 12

With UE orthosis, what happens if you wrongly place or have the wrong straps?

Answer 12

This can render the orthosis ineffective

• Strap too narrow can cause increased pressure, leading to skin redness and irritation. While straps that are too broad can restrict full ROM

Question 13

With UE orthosis, what are Outrigger systems?

Answer 13

These are external extensions that stem from the base of the brace. It is adjustable, allowing for the therapist to maintain the optimal 90° of pull on each joint

Question 14

With UE orthosis, what are Hinges?

Answer 14

These are used to address wrist and elbow joints as they allow motion in only one plane
- They are very versitile and can be set either static or dynamic

Question 15

With UE orthosis, what are Fingertip Attachments and Finger Slings?

Answer 15

These allow for force to be applied directly to the fingertips for mobilization of the digits

Question 16

What are the Characterisitcs of Static Orthoses?

Answer 16

These immobilize the joint they cross, they are the most common orthosis therapist make

• They can support and position weak or paralyzed UE and are used to prevent contractures or other deformities
• It also protects repairs or fractures, off-load sore tissues or completley block unwanted motion
• Also used as a plateform for other attachments, such as outrigger systems.

Question 17

What are the Characterisitcs of Serial Static Orthoses?

Answer 17

This is an orthosis with a static fit that is periodically remolded (serially) at new end-ranges
- You’ll use this when you want to gain larger ROM jumps over days/weeks but dont need - or cant affort - the complexity of adjustable hardware
- We use this becuase its simple materials, each new cast or splint “locks in” progess. Downside is the need for regular clinic visits

Question 18

What are the Characterisitcs of Static-Progressive Orthoses?

Answer 18

A static shell with an adjustable hinge or strap that applied a mild, consistant end-range stretch
- You’ll use this when you need to lengthen soft tissues (capsules, ligaments) gradually - common after contractures or prolonged immobilization
- We use this becuase it provides controlled, incremental gains in ROM; patient (or therapist) can dial in tension as tolerated

Question 19

What are the Characterisitcs of Dynamic Orthoses?

Answer 19

This incorporates elastic bands or spring-loaded hinges that apply a continuous, gentle stretch throughout movement
- You’ll use this to maintain or restore motion while still allowing functional use (e.g., finger extension orthosis that lets you grasp but restricts closing)
- We use this becuase it encourages active use, can be worn during daily tasks and provide a low-load, long duration stretch. Requires careful design to avoid over tension or fragile of elastic components