A new dynamic triceps-driven orthosis (DTDO): achieving elbow flexion in patients with C5 deficits

This report describes a unique orthosis designed to assist activities of daily living for a patient with severe proximal upper limb weakness caused by traumatic central cord syndrome. The orthosis-the dynamic triceps-driven orthosis (DTDO)-provides elbow flexion using contralateral elbow extension to move a cable threaded across the shoulders and wrist cuffs bilaterally. The device is a simple, inexpensive design that can be reproduced by any orthotist. The DTDO has been used successfully for other patients with severe weakness in C5- and C6-innervated muscles.