The effect of orthoses on gait: an integrated biomechanical perspective

Lower limb orthoses are an integral part of the rehabilitative medical management of children. Properly prescribed orthoses are essential to maximize the effectiveness of a brace and a patient's ambulatory function. Orthoses can be viewed in a similar light to a pharmacological intervention in the sense that they may have undesirable systemic side effects. A more global perspective of the effects of brace interactions with the entire body is necessary to match patients' needs and abilities with the function provided by orthoses while minimizing undesirable effects. Savvy clinicians can make use of technology to assist in the realization of these goals. Computer modeling and analysis can help in visualizing the highly coupled effects of body segment interactions and thus in clarifying the mechanisms by which braces work and how the body adapts to the orthotic application. This paper presents a brief introduction to developing analytical tools and research efforts making inroads in these areas.