extension assist tension bands for custom contoured orthotic knee joints

extension assist tension bands for custom contoured orthotic knee joints

Ramsey, Jason A. (HSC)

6/2/2008

Hello List,
 
I'm seeing a 6 y/o patient who needs knee extension assist during stance. Her diagnosis is Guillain-Barre. We considered a floor reaction AFO, but her ability to dorsiflex was not impaired and we wanted free ankle motion to remain. A KAFO was fabricated with an articulated ankle and a lateral Tamarack assist joint (95 durometer) at the knee with bilateral free motion 1/2x3/16 Becker knee joints to act as extension stops. It looks like it will provide the control we want. However the fabrication was tedious.and so I'm wondering if there is a better alternative for pediatric patients.
 
I've read some old list messages on extension assists for orthotic knee joints. Someone mentioned that Otto Bock used to make elastomeric bands that could be retrofitted onto posterior offset knee joints for extension assist. According to the person I spoke with at OB, these are no longer available. Does anyone know if I can get them elsewhere, or methods of making them myself? The available mechanisms I found for extension assist are all for larger patients (Becker Load Response, Trick Knee, OB 17Y-32).
 
Thanks,
 
Jason Ramsey, CP, orthotics resident
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center