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Reciprocal walking orthosis with composite material body brace: initial development.
J Stallard1, N McLeod, P J Woollam
1Orthotic Research and Locomotor Assessment Unit, Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic and District Hospital NHS Trust, Oswestry, Shropshire, UK.
Summary
Reciprocal walking orthoses for thoracic lesion patients can now be more rigid and less obtrusive. New composite materials and manufacturing methods ensure improved walking efficiency and patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Orthotics and Biomechanics
- Materials Science in Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Reciprocal walking orthoses (RWO) are vital for thoracic lesion patients' ambulation and independence.
- Conventional RWOs often compromise between structural rigidity for efficiency and aesthetic appearance.
- Existing manufacturing methods limit the ability to achieve both desired rigidity and a less obtrusive design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an innovative RWO using composite materials.
- To enhance lateral rigidity for improved walking efficiency.
- To ensure safe failure modes and acceptable cosmesis for long-term patient compliance.
Main Methods:
- Devised a novel production technique for composite body braces.
- Manufactured prototype body braces using advanced composite materials.
- Conducted laboratory testing to assess structural properties, failure modes, and lateral rigidity.
Main Results:
- Prototype body braces demonstrated improved structural integrity and predictable, safe failure modes.
- Testing confirmed enhanced lateral rigidity compared to conventional designs.
- The concept orthosis exhibited sufficient durability for field evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Composite materials offer a viable solution for creating rigid yet less obtrusive RWOs.
- The developed manufacturing technique ensures the safety and efficacy of novel orthotic designs.
- This advancement promises improved walking efficiency and patient acceptance for individuals with thoracic lesions.