Specific Systems

Today was gorgeous outside here in NYC, unfortunately I spent most of the day reviewing for the final I have tomorrow. I think they call it specific systems because that is a nicer way of saying "everything we couldn't fit in any other class goes here." Fortunately, this last exam is focused on orthotics of the lower limb, spine and PVD. Let's review...

AFO's (ankle-foot orthoses) extend downward from the calf and generally attach to the heel via a stirrup (split or solid). These are generally used to prevent deformity and are made of metal, leather and/or plastic. Basic ideas that have come out of these lectures has been to create the most functional orthosis for the patient. While we as PT's very rarely "create" the orthosis, we are a point of information and advice for the patient in having an optimal piece of equipment. There are components that can make things easier, lighter, more/less restrictive, increase stability, durability, more economical, etc. In fact there are a lot of variations available to meet many different needs, which is what makes studying for tomorrow not that fun :( but it is all good to know. Another large part of the PT scope of practice is knowing how the orthosis affects biomechanics, especially of gait.

Something is going on with my internet right now, so I leave you here and go off to finish reviewing, enjoy yourselves :-D

As a side note, although this wasn't that exciting a year for it, the NFL draft is such a great event :-D