A pilot study to determine the efficiency of lightweight carbon fibre orthoses in the management of patients suffering from post-poliomyelitis syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the usage of carbon fibre orthoses in assisting post-polio syndrome patients who reported advancing weakness and difficulty in maintaining their independent ambulatory status.


METHODS
Carbon fibre orthoses that are 30% lighter than metal braces were constructed.


METHODS
Thirty patients who complained of difficulty in maintaining their ambulation using long-leg braces were provided with lightweight orthoses.


RESULTS
Seventy per cent of the patients reported satisfaction with their braces. There were, however, problems in construction and use.


CONCLUSIONS
Ambulation can be preserved in some patients who report advancing weakness because of post-polio syndrome.
Heim
M
M
Lewis National Rehabilitation Institute, Department of Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
Yaacobi
E
E
Azaria
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D002244:Carbon; D000077482:Carbon Fiber; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016262:Postpoliomyelitis Syndrome / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011474:Prosthesis Design
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D000077482:Carbon Fiber; D002244:Carbon