A cranial helmet, or cranial reshaping orthosis, is a unique treatment involving a custom-created helmet that fits over the head with regions of open space above the flattened areas. These spaces enable the continuous development of the head to fill out these areas over a few weeks or months. Essentially, this is a painless and, most importantly, safe treatment. No direct pressure is applied to the problematic areas of the head, ensuring the safety and comfort of your child. A cranial helmet aims to correct moderate to severe head-shape abnormalities to avoid developmental delays and meet growth milestones.

1. What is the desired age for a cranial helmet?

The ideal age for cranial helmet therapy is between four to six months. This is the best time to correct any skull contour issues.

2. What do cranial helmets do?

Cranial helmets are designed to effectively correct the contour of the skull, giving you hope for a positive outcome.

3. How long is helmet moulding therapy?

The duration of the treatment is tailored to your baby’s unique needs, but the typical time is three months. Rest assured, we will provide the best care for your little one.

The S.O.M.I orthosis is an adjustable device designed to immobilise, stabilise, and set the head in one specific position only. The device allows the patient to lie comfortably with the removable chin support, ensuring a restful experience. After removing the chin support, the device's headband support provides a secure connection, ensuring the patient's safety and comfort. The device can be placed in the supine position with minimal disturbance and effortless placement, further enhancing the patient's comfort.

This cervical orthosis assists with positioning, flexion and immobilisation of the particular area.

1. When do you need a SOMI brace?

A SOMI brace is designed to provide support and stability for spinal injuries, related traumatic injuries, and stable fractures.

2. Can you sleep while wearing a neck brace?

Yes, you should always wear a neck collar as your doctor advises. Their professional advice is essential for your recovery.

3. How many hours should you wear a SOMI brace?

The duration of wear depends on several factors, such as the type and extent of the injury, the individual's recovery progress, and the advice of a healthcare professional.

Compression garments are specially designed apparel that assist in the recovery process by optimising circulation and reducing the risk of blood clot formation. Typically made from strong, comfortable materials such as nylon and elastin, they are highly effective in promoting circulation in areas most needed where blood flow is minimal. The compression wear assists by evening out the wound site, reducing the formation of unsightly bulges and ripples in the skin and providing reassurance in the recovery process.

Compression garments are commonly used to treat lymphedema, an unusual swelling caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid, and to promote blood flow.

1. What types of compression garments do you get?

Compression garments come in the form of stockings or sleeves.

2. How many hours must the compression garment be worn?

The duration of wearing a compression garment is flexible and depends on many different factors, including the individual and the condition. This flexibility is designed to accommodate your unique needs.

3. Must you sleep with the compression garment on?

It's important to note that sleeping with the compression garment on is not usually required, providing you with a comfortable night's sleep.

A neck collar or cervical brace plays a crucial role in supporting the spine and neck, particularly after a traumatic injury. These braces are designed to limit movement in these areas, thereby preventing unnecessary motion of the head. This not only preserves the area but also significantly reduces the risk of further damage, providing a sense of security. There are different types of collars, each serving a specific purpose and made from various materials. For instance, a soft collar made from foam rubber aids in the rehabilitation of neck sprains and whiplash. On the other hand, a rigid collar, with its plastic shell and vinyl or foam interior, provides a higher level of support. Remember, the neck is the most fragile spine area and must be safeguarded at all costs.

1. How can a neck collar help with an injury?

A neck collar is designed to provide comfort by relieving pain and reducing the risk of further damage.

2. What are sport neck collars?

Sports neck collars are rigid collars designed to provide a sense of security by preventing damage to the neck in the event of sudden collisions.

3. How long should I wear a neck collar?

The duration of wear depends on several factors, such as the type and extent of the injury, the individual's recovery progress, and the advice of a healthcare professional.

Shoulder braces, particularly those built for compression, alleviate swelling, inflammation and pain. As a result, shoulder braces exert minimal pressure, which improves circulation and, therefore, aids in the natural healing process. Furthermore, shoulder braces are created to correct bad posture, which is common for those working at a desk without the right support system. These braces are made to gently pull the shoulders, providing a non-invasive solution by carefully repositioning them in their natural anatomical state. By doing this, the braces reduce strain on the upper back muscles and shoulders, which helps relieve tension and corrects posture over time.

1. When will I need to wear a shoulder brace?

You may need a shoulder brace for the following conditions:

• Ligament and muscle tear
• Impingement of the shoulder
• Shoulder pain that is stress-related
• A shoulder sprain
• Injury of the rotator cuff

2. How can an arm sling help?

An arm sling is a crucial part of your recovery, providing temporary pain relief and protecting your arm from further damage.

3. Must I sleep with an arm sling on?

Yes.

Elbow braces, a form of orthotic gear, are designed to stabilise and support the elbow. They apply gentle yet firm pressure on the overstrained, painful, or injured area of the elbow. By compressing the elbow, the device can firmly secure the region, preventing further damage to the area. The brace works by stimulating the muscles to better reinforce the joint; it stimulates blood flow around the injured site, a process that boosts recovery and reduces swelling and pain. An elbow brace is used to alleviate pain and discomfort from elbow tendonitis and mild arthritis.

1. Can I still sleep with an elbow brace on?

Yes, the brace will assist with joint pain.

2. Do elbow braces really work?

Yes, they work by compressing the injured site, which helps stabilise and support the joint.

3. Is it better to tape or brace your elbow?

Bracing is generally more effective than taping.

Wrist braces play a crucial role in protecting and stabilising the damaged or arthritic parts of the wrist, preventing further injury. They help immobilise the wrist, limit movement, and preserve the joint. This orthotic device significantly minimises the risk of injury by supporting the damaged areas of the joint and holding the wrist in one secure position. The straps secure the brace in one position, preventing it from shifting to minimise the risk of nerve impingement when the nerve is at risk of compression. The duration of its wear depends on the reason for the brace.

1. What can a wrist brace do?

A wrist brace is designed to protect and reinforce the arthritic or damaged parts of the wrist, providing a comforting level of support.

2. How long should I wear the wrist brace?

The duration of wearing a wrist brace depends on the condition, but it's a reassuring measure to prevent overstraining the hands.

3. What conditions require a wrist brace?

• Arthritis
• Tendonitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sprains and strains of the wrist

Hand and wrist splints are a balancing act, supporting and safeguarding painful, swollen, and inflamed joints and nearby structures by safely positioning the hand and wrist. Typically, splints are used for arthritis, degenerative disease and other disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s best to get optimal use of the splint, but you must not wear it for a long time, too, because this can cause the joint to become stiff. There are two types of splints: one used when working with the hands and another worn at night while at rest.

1. Can I still sleep with my hand splint on?

Yes, you may still wear it at night. Wearing the splint at night can help maintain the correct hand position and reduce discomfort.

2. How long must a splint stay on?

The duration depends on the condition, the severity of the injury, and the individual's response to treatment. Generally, it can take a few days or weeks.

3. Can a splint end pain?

Indeed, a splint can provide relief by reducing pain and swelling, offering hope and optimism.

Spinal braces are used for various reasons, such as all other orthotic devices, to prevent further injury, hasten recovery, assist with muscle weakness, and correct or prevent the progression of a spinal deformity. Spinal braces compress the targeted regions, enabling pressure offloading from the vertebral column and providing relief and reassurance.

Spinal bracing plays a crucial role in reducing pain. It insulates the skin, creating a comforting warmth that minimises painful sensations. Additionally, it offers support for the back, which is particularly beneficial as certain movements can trigger pain receptors. Therefore, limited mobility can help reduce this discomfort, providing a sense of relief.

1. How long must I wear a spinal brace?

The duration of wearing a spinal brace is a decision best made in consultation with your doctor. It depends entirely on the type of condition and your doctor’s advice. This could mean several weeks of use, but your doctor will provide the most accurate guidance.

2. Can a spinal brace help with compression fractures?

Yes, a spinal brace reinforces the spine and reduces its movement.

3. What are the advantages of wearing a spinal brace?

Wearing a spinal brace is a proactive step in your recovery. It minimises micro-motions at the injured site and reinforces the affected part of the spine, preventing further injury. By taking this step, you are actively contributing to your own health and well-being.

The heart hugger, a supportive harness that stabilises the affected region, offers support for the sternum, alleviates pain and prevents wound complications. This device wraps around the rib cage, applying gentle pressure and supporting the area. Patients notice improved comfort, reduced pain and optimal healing, ensuring the recovery outcome is in their capable hands. In addition, it acts as a support vest, providing extra support for those with breast tissue, which can be particularly useful for recovery.

1. What is a Heart Hugger™ for?

The Heart Hugger™ is designed to assist with pain management, stability, and sternum support, providing comfort and aiding in the recovery process.

2. How long must I wear my Heart Hugger™?

The duration of Heart Hugger™ use is a personalized decision tailored to each patient's unique needs and recovery process.

3. Do you size a Heart Hugger™?

It is crucial to measure the Heart Hugger™ before the surgery to ensure it fits properly.

A hernia brace, truss or belt is a supportive device designed to manage the symptoms of a hernia when a segment of tissue protrudes through an opening in the weakened muscular wall. It's important to note that a hernia does not resolve on its own and requires surgical correction for long-term relief. A hernia brace can provide temporary pain relief, but it is not a permanent solution. Its primary purpose is to manage the discomfort until a doctor's assessment and surgical repair can be performed. Several surgical options for hernia repair exist, such as open surgery or laparoscopic repair.

1. Must I wear the hernia belt throughout the day?

Yes, you will be advised to wear it for the day. This recommendation is based on the potential benefits of the hernia belt in managing your condition.

2. Is surgery the only way to treat a hernia?

It's important to remember that surgery is the only way to permanently fix a hernia, ensuring you are fully informed and prepared for the best course of action.

3. How can a hernia belt help?

A hernia belt plays a crucial role in temporarily relieving hernia pain and offering support until surgery can be performed, providing you with a much-needed respite.

The hip brace is meant to distribute and even out weight appropriately. It assists with load dispersion and helps manage mild to moderate pain associated with hip osteoarthritis. Therefore, it stabilises the hip and improves hip mobility and functionality. By compressing the affected area, the brace strengthens and supports the hip. As a result of enhanced mobility, you can still easily carry out daily tasks. This comprehensive support system ensures you are well informed about the benefits of hip braces.

Hip bracing is a promising solution for those with long-term hip disorders and those recuperating from hip surgery. It offers a beacon of hope for a smoother recovery journey.

1. Can I still wear the hip brace at night?

Your doctor's guidance is crucial when it comes to wearing the brace at night. They will be able to provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and needs.

2. How long must I wear the hip brace?

How long you'll need to wear the hip brace is like asking how long a piece of string is. It really depends on the type and severity of your hip condition. In some cases, it could be a few weeks.

3. What do you aim to achieve with a hip brace?

The hip brace is designed to ensure your hips are aligned and at the right level, which is crucial for optimizing healing and promoting recovery.

Callipers, a traditional orthotic device, are pivotal in the treatment of various conditions, particularly in assisting mobility. They aid in the movement of the pelvis, hips, knees, ankles and feet. While they are commonly recommended for adults, there are also lightweight versions for children.

Leg callipers, specifically designed for those with muscle paralysis, are beneficial for conditions affecting the ankle, foot and knee muscle groups. These conditions can stem from a variety of disorders such as central nervous system disorders, stroke (CVA), brain tumours, encephalitis or brain abscesses, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries and spastic spinal paralysis.

1. How can leg callipers help?

Leg callipers offer support and safely restrict ankle, foot, and knee movement, providing a sense of security for parents.

2. Can children wear leg callipers?

Children are empowered to wear leg callipers, which can help fix a foot deformity or contracture, providing them with the support they need.

3. What can leg callipers help with?

Leg callipers are versatile supportive devices for the lower legs, aiding in controlling the ankles and assisting with a range of exercises, from walking to cycling, offering a hopeful outlook for children's mobility.

A knee brace is a device made to firmly hold the knee in place, stabilising the joint. It is created to relieve pressure on the knee and reduce joint pain. Knee braces are designed to safeguard the knee and support the joint after a serious injury or knee surgery. The brace holds and immobilises the knee, securing it in place to prevent future injury or further damage to the knee joint, providing a sense of security. A knee brace prevents unnecessary motion of the knee, preventing it from moving too far too quickly.

1. What are the advantages of wearing a knee brace?

Wearing a knee brace is a quick and effective way to provide relief, stabilizing the knee and alleviating stiffness and pain.

2. How long should I wear a knee brace?

The duration of knee brace usage is not a one-size-fits-all answer. It's dependent on the type of knee condition and its severity, ensuring you get the personalized care you need.

3. Do knee braces really work?

Yes, knee braces do work. They reinforce the knee joint, effectively reducing the risk of further injury and providing you with the confidence to move without fear.

A knee-ankle foot orthosis is a specialised, custom-created orthotic device that reinforces the foot, ankle, and knee. The device corrects posture and returns mobility and independence. This orthosis ensures proper alignment, regulates mobility, and treats instability in the lower extremity. Each individual case is unique, with the patient’s status always changing. However, the decision for an orthosis is a proactive approach, empowering healthcare professionals to ensure optimal health and mobility. The knee-ankle-foot orthosis is a leg brace tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

1. What are the clinical indications for a knee-ankle-foot orthosis?

• Knee and ankle instability
• Weakness in the quadriceps
• Valgus deformity correction
• Paralysis in the legs

2. How long should I wear a knee-ankle-foot orthosis?

While the wear time of a knee-ankle-foot orthosis depends on the condition type, you have the flexibility to increase the duration each day, giving you a sense of control over your treatment.

3. Can I drive while wearing a knee-ankle-foot orthosis?

Yes, but only in a specially adapted vehicle suited for persons with disabilities.

Ankle braces, available in a variety of designs, including those tailored for sports, all share a common goal: to enhance ankle support and reduce the risk of sprains. Ankle braces are a critical part of the recovery process and a key element in every treatment plan. They play a pivotal role in maintaining balance, flexibility, mobility, endurance, and strength. Comfort is a top priority when it comes to ankle braces, so finding the right fit is crucial. They act as an external support system that restricts certain movements, which is essential for joint preservation.

1. Can ankle braces always help with arthritis?

Bracing and sometimes splinting can provide significant relief from discomfort, offering hope for a more comfortable daily life.

2. Can I sleep with my ankle brace on?

An ankle brace is advised for daytime use only because it provides support and stability during activities, but wearing it at night may not be necessary and could potentially restrict blood flow.

3. Why shouldn’t I use an ankle brace for a long time?

It's important to be aware that long durations of wear can cause ankle weakness, ensuring you are fully informed about the potential risks.

Ankle foot orthoses are biomechanical devices that restore function and mobility in the lower limbs. They help stabilise affected joints, correct gait, and improve lower limb functions, particularly in cases of muscle weakness and joint instability. Their role in the rehabilitative process is significant, ensuring a complete and effortless recovery. Importantly, they also contribute to restoring independence, enabling individuals to become more self-sufficient and easily resume day-to-day activities, thereby enhancing their quality of life.

1. Can I wear the ankle-foot orthosis all day?

The duration of wear is unique to each individual, tailored to their specific needs and condition.

2. What do ankle foot orthoses help with?

Ankle-foot orthoses are designed to assist with walking and cadence, providing support and stability to the ankle and foot. They can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.

3. Are ankle foot orthoses worn permanently?

These aids are designed to be temporary, offering hope for improvement and not a permanent solution.

A moon boot, a controlled ankle motion (CAM) boot, is an orthopaedic tool designed to stabilize fractures, serious sprains, and ankle or foot ligament and tendon tears. CAM boots are reusable, removable, and adjustable, unlike plaster casts, offering a more comfortable and convenient healing process. The comfort provided by CAM boots can help you feel at ease during your recovery.

Moon boots vary in size (height), entirely dependent on the type of injury sustained. As a result, high-grade, premium Moon boots have inflatable and adjustable compartments to enhance support and comfort. A few walkers consist of a plastic shell enclosing the back and sides, with removable plastic plates in the front to protect the affected ankle or leg.

1. Should I wear the moon boot all the time?

The duration of wearing the moon boot is a crucial aspect of your recovery. It's important to follow our advice, especially when the injury is severe and immediate offloading is necessary.

2. Can I remove my moon boot when preparing to sleep?

It’s best advised to keep the moon boot on while asleep. You can remove it for a while to allow the leg to rest or when washing, but it should remain on.

3. Must I wear socks with my moon boots?

Yes, you must wear socks with your moon boots. This is to maintain hygiene and provide additional warmth, which can aid in the recovery process.

Diabetic footwear, a specialised comfort, is a relief for diabetic patients who experience diabetic foot complications or poor circulation. These custom-created orthotic devices are designed with special insoles and a wider toe box to alleviate pressure on certain parts of the foot and reduce the risk of sores and blisters.

Diabetic patients are at an increased risk of foot-related issues due to neuropathy and poor circulation. Diabetic footwear, specially made to improve comfort, plays a crucial role in boosting blood circulation and minimizing the risk of complications such as infections and foot ulcers.

1. When will I need diabetic shoes?

If you've experienced foot complications due to diabetes, it's crucial to consider the benefits of specially designed footwear.

2. Can diabetic shoes still appear stylish?

With modern innovations, diabetic shoes are available in a wide variety of styles, empowering you to choose based on your preferences.

3. What does the fitting process involve?

The fitting process for diabetic shoes involves a specialist assessing your needs and overall foot health, followed by precise measurements to initiate the design process.

Custom-made foot orthoses, designed to the specifics of each individual’s feet, provide a unique level of comfort and support. These tailor-made solutions not only address foot disorders and alleviate pain and discomfort but also offer significant support and stability to areas of the body like the lower back, hip, and knee that may be affected by foot malalignment. The primary aim of these devices is to stabilize the foot in one position to support its anatomical structure, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance to those who use them.

1. Is a gait analysis part of the fitting process?

Yes, a gait analysis is not just a part but a crucial cornerstone of the fitting process. It’s part of the assessment for those with neuromuscular disease, biomechanical conditions and peripheral neuropathy, ensuring the right fit with confidence.

2. Are custom orthotics proven to be effective?

Custom orthotics, unlike over-the-counter inserts, are specifically designed to address your unique foot structure and gait pattern. This personalized approach makes them highly effective for those with diabetes, arthritis and chronic foot pain.

3. Are custom foot orthoses worn for a long time?

Yes, they have not just stood the test of time, but proven to be effective over many years, providing long-term relief and comfort.

Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker (CROW) boots are designed to provide comfort while controlling the offloading pressure from the foot and ankle. They are advised for those with progressive diabetes who also suffer from Charcot foot, a disorder that develops when the bones, soft tissue, and joints in the ankle and foot start to weaken and become deformed. CROW boots are an integral part of the multidisciplinary care for diabetes. They assist with overall foot health, providing stability, support, and, most importantly, comfort.

1. Can I still drive with a CROW boot on?

No.

2. Is a CROW boot a permanent device?

No, the CROW boot can be removed.

3. What does a CROW boot do?

It reinforces the ankle and foot and reduces the risk of deformity and ulcers.

Shoe raises, or build-ups, are a crucial tool in achieving balance by correcting leg length discrepancies. It’s vital to consult the orthotist about raising measurements before you order shoe raises. This step ensures that your shoe raises are custom-made to fit you perfectly, empowering you with a solution that's tailored to your needs. A shoe raise doesn't just increase the length of the leg; it provides a lift for the heel, offering relief to anyone suffering from a painful musculoskeletal condition. Leg length inequality, which can lead to several musculoskeletal disorders affecting areas like the foot, ankle, knee, hip and spine, can be effectively managed with this personalized approach. By addressing leg length disparities, we can significantly reduce alterations in biomechanics and unequal joint forces.

1. Can shoe raises help with posture?
   

Yes, shoe raises help align the body properly.

2. What can shoe raises do?
   

They help align the ankle and foot bones and alleviate pain and inflammation.

3. Do shoe raises help with back pain?

Yes.