Orthoses and Aids
摘要
This chapter presents an overview of the most frequently used lower limb orthoses used in cerebral palsy (CP), differentiating them based on their aim: corrective, compensatory, static, dynamic, with possible variations of geometry. In addition to the involved segment (RO, SMO, AFO, KAFO, HKAFO, TDA, SWASH), orthoses used in walking activity can be: articulated (HAFO), rigid (SAFO, FAFO), flexible, i.e., dynamic (DAFO), with energy restitution (GRAFO, FRO, PLS), able to inhibit hypertonia (TRAFO), and to contain torsional deformities, simple spiral (SpAFO) or double spiral (Sp2AFO). The choice of orthoses must take into account the prevalent defect and/or deficit in gait architecture. To function properly, orthoses must be accepted and internalized mentally by the patient, that is, become part of their intrapersonal world, shared by the family, and be aesthetically and socially acceptable. Based on the gait characteristics of the different forms of CP, both unilateral and bilateral, the most suitable orthoses and timing of their utilization with appropriate training are proposed. Aids and devices related to problems of sleep, sitting position, assisted verticalization, and walking are considered.