Steenbeek Brace: Patterns of Wear

Area of Science:

• Orthotics and Biomechanics
• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Clubfoot Treatment

Background:

• The Steenbeek foot abduction brace (SFAB) is crucial for correcting congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) using the Ponseti method.
• SFABs are typically used for 3-4 years, necessitating an understanding of their wear patterns during this period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the wear patterns of the Steenbeek foot abduction brace (SFAB) in relation to a child's developmental stage and age.
• To identify common areas of damage and their probable causative factors in SFABs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 100 Steenbeek foot abduction braces (SFABs) deemed unusable due to advanced wear.
• Categorization of brace wear patterns based on developmental stages: general use, sitters/crawlers, and walkers.
• Detailed inspection of individual brace components (sole, insole, leather, abduction bar, laces).

Main Results:

• General wear included shredded tongues, torn lace holes, peeled paint on abduction bars, and frayed laces.
• Sitters and crawlers showed wear at the junction of the upper leather and outer sole (anteromedial, anterolateral, posterolateral).
• Walkers most commonly experienced damage to the abduction bar, with breaks at the weld or bending at the midpoint.

Conclusions:

• SFAB wear patterns are directly correlated with the child's age and specific activities.
• Simple modifications and parent education on proper brace usage may extend the reusability of the Steenbeek foot abduction brace.