0 Item(s)
Should Dynamic Stance Control Orthoses be added to the Rancho R.O.A.D.M.A.P.? A Case Presentation
Keyword(s)
AM2021-CT03, clinical techniques, ct3
Credit Information
1.5 Credits (Scientific)
Author(s)
Jackie Valdez, M.Ed., CO, BOCP, FAAOP
Description
Patients with quadricep weakness are often prescribed a knee-ankle-foot orthosis that locks the knee in full extension during both stance and swing phases of gait. Locking the knee results in compensatory gait patterns characterized by lateral sway, hip hiking, vaulting, or leg circumduction. The Stance-Control Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (SCO) allows free knee motion during swing while resisting knee flexion during stance. The resultant movement more approximates a natural gait that is more energy efficient. Many studies related to gait support the approach of maintaining the range of motion as much as possible and locking out that ROM only as needed for stability. Stance Control Orthosis designs have become a viable, if not preferred, alternative to locked knee joints that immobilize the knee during gait.