[Use of pneumatic braces in the rehabilitation of motor handicaps]

The authors describe the advantages of pneumatic orthesis which are: On a mechanical standpoint the comfort related to the lightness and elasticity of the bracing allowing better walking, specialty in paraplegies from thoracic level. The rigidity of the orthesis can be changed by modifying the air-pressure and this type of bracing can be used in various diseases such as cerebral palsy or myopathies. On a social standpoint this type of orthesis can be obtained more rapidly than conventional ones. It allows a shorter hospitalization and, therefore, a better rehabilitation.