Re: Suggestions Needed

Re: Suggestions Needed

Eric Ramcharran, CPO

Hello Colleagues,

Here are the list of responses from my question:

First the original question:

Today, I was asked for a suggestion by a Dr. about his nephew.

It appears that this 11 year old boy with RT fibular Amelia. He also had a
leg length discrepancy that side. Within the last year he had a lengthening
procedure done. He is still slightly short and now wears an AFO with a shoe
lift. The Dr. states he ambulates well with this.

The problem is that he still has some ML instability due to lack of the
fibula. This seems to be contained with the use of the AFO while ambulating,
but the boy like to swim. He seems to be having trouble controlling his leg
in the water.

Any help and suggestions will be appreciated. I am doing this as a favor,
and I am in Florida, and his nephew is in Ohio. Thanks in advance for your
help.

=======================Responses===================

I would recommend one of the neoprene or canvas ankle supports with the
plastic reinforcements. It will give him some support and will not be
affected
by the water. End up with a strange tan though.

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There is a listserv for parents and relatives of congential amputees
that might be of help. The list is called I-CAN and the moderator is
Bill Baughn. He can be reached at < <Email Address Redacted> >

The URL for the web site and list info is

                      <URL Redacted>

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Have you tried the Generation II KAFO model? This works great when dealing
with multiple pathologies. John Parks, CO is the senior orthotist on staff.
Their telephone number is 800-462-7252.

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What about a hinged ankle brace - but just the lateral portion with elastic/
velcro wraps to secure on the leg. Use pre -molded plastic (ie the lateral
portion of a lower extremity fracture brace).

==================================================

Interesting problem...not sure I'll be much help but suppose taping was
tried. ie. athletic taping. I suppose one could experiment with ace-wrap as
a trial. Even a pull on neoprene support might be helpful. Just some
thoughts about the least interfering thing to swim in.

My choice:

Have him use a simple U-stirrup type brace. Not an Aircast, because that
would be too buoyant in the water.

Thanks to all that replied.

Eric Ramcharran, CPO