What is an orthosis?

Many people do not know what an orthosis is. What does the term mean? An orthosis is a group of orthopedic devices used to stabilize and relieve the joints and spine after certain injuries, surgeries or neurological diseases.

It is a comfortable and convenient variant of the plaster cast used for sprained joints or neurological syndromes. The choice of orthosis should only be made on the advice of a medical specialist, as choosing an orthosis that is too stiff or not stiff is not conducive to rapid rehabilitation in the case of severe injuries.

Relief and immobilization may also be required for the following conditions:

Paralysis and paresis (in acute cerebral circulatory disorders);
development of contractures (in cerebral palsy);
Congenital anomalies of the musculoskeletal system.

Orthoses are a collective term for all orthopedic constructions and devices that are used to treat, immobilize and restore a specific part of the musculoskeletal system (spine in general, foot, elbow, knee, wrist and hip joints).

Orthotics have been used for a long time and are an integral part of therapeutic medicine. However, only now have some models been developed that enable effective and comfortable immobilization of the joint.

What is that?

What is a tunic? It is a plaster construction that allows the lower limb to be held in a fixed position. As a result, a functionally favorable posture can be adopted immediately, which is necessary in the case of a large number of diseases. In most cases, the orthosis holds the leg in place or only moves it in one direction. Sometimes it involves flexion and extension.

Orthoses can be used not only in adults, but also in children. They are most commonly used in orthopedic braces:

This device helps correct lower limb deformities. The manufacturers therefore offer different models. Sizes range from 10 to 22.

Characteristics of the orthosis and their distinction from bandages and orthoses

This device is designed for ankle repair. Typically, such devices are divided into dynamic and fixative. The latter type should preferably be used at night. The dynamic orthosis is suitable for use during the day. Derotation shoes come in standard designs. In some situations, however, it is advisable to have them custom-made.

Derotation shoes differ fundamentally from bandages and orthoses. The limb is fixed as tightly as possible with a derotation shoe. In essence, it is a monolithic cuff. Some models consist of several (3-5) independent rings. For the manufacture of such a bandage, as a rule, dense materials are used, elastic fabrics are not used.

At the same time, bandages focus on poor fixation and are prescribed to prevent complications after injuries or with various diseases. An orthosis consists of a large number of components. This device is designed to rigidly fix the limb, but only the lateral segments. The incisions are made of materials with different degrees of hardness. In this case, the construction necessarily includes soft parts. Usually these parts are made of polymers (neoprene).

Whole foot orthoses are widespread. These are detachable, non-carrying models. They are made in different variants.

shelf life

Low-temperature thermoplastic orthoses do not have a specific recommended durability, but it is acceptable to use the orthoses longer than the treatment time. Thermoplastic splints have a long service life as long as the recommended storage and use conditions are observed. Changes and removal of the splint should be coordinated with the doctor.

Make sure that the joint is completely protected;
distribution of pressure on the affected area;
to reduce pain syndrome;
reducing recovery time;
have a 'breathing' effect.

Orthopedic splints promote proper bone fusion. The progress of the treatment can be monitored as the thermoplastic allows for X-ray fluoroscopy. If necessary, adjustments can be made to the device.

Why choose a low temperature plastic wrist brace?

Compared to classic immobilization methods, thermoplastic orthoses are characterized by their well-groomed appearance and their low weight, which is why they are used successfully in pediatric orthopedics. The possibility of choosing a colorful wrist brace is particularly attractive for young patients.

In addition, modern orthoses have a number of other advantages:

They do not stick to skin and hair when modeling.
They prevent wounds and abrasions.
They are affordable.
They are non-allergenic and do not emit any toxic substances.
Easy and quick to put on the body (the whole process takes less than 10 minutes).
Offers a close fit without extra padding.
Does not require special hygiene, can be washed and maintained with detergents.
Durable shape.

Possibility of adjusting the orthosis in sections by locally heating the material. This can e.g. B. after the swelling has gone down. Plastic products can be adjusted with straps and Velcro. The clothing can be worn over the orthosis.

Knee support systems: Variety

There are a number of models and types of this orthopedic aid. They differ in terms of the materials they are made of. Knee braces can be open or closed, they can be flexible or rigid. They may also come equipped with knee pins, metal ion inserts, magnetic plates, silicone rings, and even infrared heaters.

Depending on the intended use, there are knee brace models in the following variants.

Bandage. An elastic corset to stabilize, warm and relieve the knee area.
orthosis. It is similar to a bandage, but is more functional.
Bandage. It is used for prophylactic purposes and helps support the knee joint to prevent damage.
orthosis. A rigid kneecap that is used in most cases during the rehabilitation period. This type of kneecap is prescribed for osteoarthritis in the knee.
Stroke. A metal splint resembling a splint with a rigid attachment. It is prescribed after an operation or injury. Soft materials are usually used for these knee orthoses. This device is hypoallergenic.
Flexible knee brace. A well-known device that is convenient and easy to use.
Duct tape. An elastic tape. The taping is intended to help reduce the strain on the muscles and ligaments.

About knee braces in detail

Even 'neglected' joint problems can be treated at home! Just remember to rub the product in once a day.

Knee braces are used to fix the knee in a simple way. The knee pads help to minimize stress, but at the same time do not restrict freedom of movement. The fixation device is made of cotton, plastic and knitted fabrics.

The bandage is somewhat similar to a bandage. The main difference is that there are additional elements in the bandage. This type of product is functional and, depending on the cause, contributes to the recovery of the knee joint. They can be equipped with rigid ribs and inserts, silicone rings and side hinges. Knee braces can be attached with Velcro.

An orthosis is a special splint whose primary function is moderate or rigid immobilization. This tool is much more convenient and practical than a plaster cast. Also, using a brace instead of a cast significantly reduces the time it takes for the knee to regain function.

The main task of an orthosis is to completely immobilize the knee. The knee brace is equipped with hinges that allow the patient to move without stressing the knee, as well as stiffening ribs covered in neoprene that help carry out the necessary movements without damaging the meniscus. This type of device is worn to protect the joint in osteoarthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as meniscus tears.

The orthoses are intended for people who play sports and lead an active lifestyle. The bandage helps to avoid the risk of various injuries, protects and secures not only the joint, but also the muscles and collateral ligaments, the kneecap and the meniscus.

The elastic bandage was in vogue even before the advent of modern fixation devices. It was used in sports activities to prevent injuries and relieve pain.

Types of knee braces

Knee braces are divided into subspecies:

Therapeutic orthoses are used to treat broken bones, torn ligaments, joint inflammation and to be worn after surgery;
Prophylactic orthoses of medium rigidity are used to prevent bone fractures in osteoporosis and arthrosis;
Special orthoses with medium and low stiffness for patients with cerebral palsy.

The doctor may prescribe an extender to immobilize the knee joint or an extender to immobilize the limb in a 30 degree flexed position.

Manufacturers produce knee braces in different sizes. Knee braces for children are also available.

Advice on the use of knee braces

If a knee brace is prescribed for therapeutic or preventive purposes, the physician should explain to the patient how to use the device.

Only general guidelines for the use of the orthosis are given here:

The orthosis must be worn for a long period of time and should only be removed for hygiene purposes or for medical checks;
Sometimes the doctor can allow the orthosis to be removed at night;
Wear the orthosis on your back with your knee slightly bent;
Don't put too much pressure on the leg.

Always consult your doctor if you have any doubts about wearing the orthosis correctly. Wearing it incorrectly can lead to damage – poor circulation, pain or increased stress on the knee joint.

What is the effect of thermoplastic splints on hand fractures?

The most important effects of thermoplastic wrist orthoses:

immobilisation of the wrist and/or forearm bone;
decompression of the joint;
Pain relief (including chronic pain associated with neuropathy, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, etc.).
fixation of bones and ligaments in anatomically correct position;
Accelerated bone healing;
Accelerated soft tissue healing.

When heated to 60-100 °C, the ORDEKT orthosis becomes soft and can be easily deformed. Within a few minutes, the therapist applies the orthosis to the limb and adapts it to the anatomical conditions of the patient's hand. Once the swelling has gone down, the brace can be removed, warmed up and reattached to the wrist. This quick and easy adjustment is comfortable for both therapist and patient.

Why should you choose low temperature plastic products?

Kids will love the bright, colorful design
Light and comfortable.
Easy to maintain products
Ergonomic and stylish design
Hypoallergenic side
Curing time less than 10 min.
Can be modeled in fragments
Not visible on x-rays
Can be wet
Affordable price

To purchase a low temperature plastic wrist brace from our store, order online or call us at +7 (495) 54-04-754.

If you have any questions, you can leave them as a message on the website (fill in the feedback form), contact an advisor online or speak to a manager by phone.

The article was authored by Maxim A. Strakhov, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics and Military Field Surgery, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, and Associate Professor in the Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Federal State Budgetary Institution of the Russian Federal Medical and Biological Agency (Moscow), peer reviewed.

Plaster and plaster casts

The most classic example of a fixation material is plaster of paris. This powder mixed with a liquid is applied to the injured area in a circular motion, hardens and takes shape, immobilizing the limb.

A more advanced form of immobilization is a medical cast, that is, strips of gauze soaked in plaster of paris. The plaster is evenly distributed on the gauze and treated with a special bacteriostatic agent. The cast is moistened before use and then applied to the injured area where it smooths and hardens. In addition, such a bandage can be fixed with an elastic bandage or gauze.

Plaster and plaster casts are most commonly used in trauma departments for bone fractures, soft tissue injuries, joint diseases, etc.

ligatures and splints

Ligatures and splints come in many varieties: dorsal, palmar, U-shaped, etc. These splints are prostheses (made of plastic, wood, or metal) that are used to prevent and treat various injuries and disorders of the skeletal system. A bandage and splint are attached to the injured area with special bandages to completely immobilize the limb or part of it to allow tissues to regenerate more quickly.

Modern medicine also uses prefabricated plastic orthopedic devices, such as bandages, orthoses and binders. Wearing such orthoses is intended to treat pathologies and eliminate the effects of mechanical injuries on the limbs, and plastic prostheses are also used to prevent tissue destruction. An orthosis is a rigid, elastic bandage with straps that can partially limit the mobility of the injured area. The orthosis has a rigid base with bandage-like attachments - elastic straps or Velcro. The orthosis has a one-piece capsule construction and is mainly made of polymer fibers, which can ensure a tight fit of the orthosis.

In practice, there are several types of knee braces:

– Knee braces is a generic term for all knee braces;

– Bandages are elastic bands used to immobilize the knee in conditions such as arthritis, osteoarthritis and after minor injuries. There are types with a papilla ring to support the kneecap;

– An orthosis is a rigid device that fixes the knee in a specific position (knee straight). It is used after serious injuries when complete immobilization of the knee is required;

– Knee brace – a device that prevents the knee from moving sideways in ligament and kneecap injuries. It is used during rehabilitation and helps maintain the patient's mobility.

Often the term 'brace' refers to any device worn on the knee to relieve pain, including bandages and casts. Products that protect a healthy knee from injury (e.g. protectors for hockey players, motorcyclists) are usually referred to as knee orthoses.

Knee braces are determined according to the indications:

– rehabilitation period after acute knee injuries;

– ligamentous and cartilage diseases (including the use of knee braces in gonarthrosis and osteoarthritis of the knee);

– maintaining physical activity in knee pathology.

The following orthoses/bands are classified according to the level of immobilization:

Slight degree of fixation The knee orthosis corresponds to a bandage, but fixes more. They are used in active sports to prevent injuries;
Semi-rigid knee orthoses are used to relieve pressure in chronic conditions;
The adjustable, semi-rigid knee brace with patella fixation is used for herniated discs and diseases of the patella. The fixation improves the load distribution on the ligaments. Thanks to the joint mechanism, the orthosis can be individually adjusted;
A semi-rigid knee brace without additional fixation of the patella is worn when such fixation is not necessary;
Rigid Knee Brace. Used after severe injuries when complete immobilisation of the joint is required;
Articulating rigid knee braces are complex mechanical devices that use a ball and socket mechanism and hook and loop fasteners to hold the knee in place securely and with adjustable range of motion.
The soft knee orthosis is a half sock that is attached to the leg with elastane. The additional ring that supports the kneecap is often made of medical-grade silicone.
Intermediate stiffness knee braces are sometimes divided into ribbed, hinged, open and closed devices. These properties of the products allow practically any type of joint fixation.
The most common knee orthoses consist of a swivel joint that partially restricts extension and flexion and relieves the knee joint in whole or in part.

To make a good choice, you should consult a doctor. Most models are equipped with laces and Velcro to attach the device to the leg. To choose a knee brace, measure the circumference of the knee in a semi-bent position with a tape measure (tailor's tape). Knee brace dimensions (general average; specifications vary from manufacturer to manufacturer)

rules for selection

Whether you buy them from your local orthopedic store or online, you should only do so after consulting your doctor.

Of course, there are sometimes situations when you have to adjust orthopedic aids yourself. For example, if the previous fitting unexpectedly broke or the child has outgrown it. As with orthoses or bandages, there is a size table that is usually given on the product packaging. All you have to do is measure the circumference of the joint to be immobilized.

For example, if you are looking for a children's ankle brace, measure the circumference of the foot at the instep with a centimeter and then use the chart to find the correct size. If you are looking for an adult knee brace, you should measure the circumference at the center of the kneecap and the circumference of the leg 15 cm above and below.

Orthoses for children, especially for cerebral palsy, can reach the knee or the groin, but they can also cover the entire thigh and part of the back. As a rule, they are worn until the age of 2 to 3 years, and not only during the day, but also at bedtime. It is therefore best to have them custom made.

Rules of Use

You should not wear a bandage if you are allergic to the material used, have poor circulation including hemorrhosis, or have inflamed or damaged skin.

Muscle spasms and tunnel syndrome are also contraindications.

The model chosen must have good joint stabilization, fit well, be abrasion-resistant, made of safe materials, and be easy to wear and maintain. The right orthosis reduces pain and joint stress, prevents the development of complications and enables easier movement.

What is an orthosis?

How do I choose the right orthosis for my wrist?