Use and fabrication of temporary orthotics.
Orthotics are effective for altering compensatory motions which result from abnormalities in the foot and lower extremity. In specific cases, temporary use of an orthosis is beneficial for reducing abnormal stresses while allowing involved structures to heal. Additionally, a temporary orthotic may provide a trial period to determine if the athlete would benefit from a permanent orthosis. A step-by-step procedure is presented for the fabrication of a temporary semirigid orthotic. Used as an adjunct to the treatment and rehabilitation program, temporary orthotics are effective in encouraging early weight-bearing tolerance, while placing the foot near the subtalar joint neutral position.
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Denise L. Massie is Athletic Trainer at West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, Coordinator of Education and Research at Morgantown Physical Therapy Associates, Morgantown, WV.