Page 92 - C:\Users\cbaro\OneDrive\Documents\Flip PDF Professional\Study Guide for the Orthopaedic Technology Certification Exams\

o Function: Keeps the wrist in a neutral or slightly extended position to relieve strain on
the median nerve and tendons.
o Design Features: Rigid support with adjustable straps for compression and fit.
• Thumb Spica Brace
o Indications: Scaphoid fractures, thumb ligament injuries, de Quervain's tenosynovitis,
arthritis.
o Function: Immobilizes the thumb while allowing movement of the fingers and wrist.
o Design Features: Reinforced structure around the thumb with adjustable compression.
• Elbow Hinged Brace
o Indications: Ligament injuries, elbow fractures, post-surgical stabilization.
o Function: Controls flexion and extension movements to facilitate healing.
o Design Features: Adjustable range-of-motion dials and cushioned padding for comfort.
• Shoulder Immobilizer
o Indications: Shoulder dislocations, rotator cuff injuries, clavicle fractures, post-operative
shoulder procedures.
o Function: Restricts shoulder movement to allow healing and prevent re-injury.
o Design Features: Velcro straps and padded supports to hold the arm close to the body.
• Wrist Splints (Cock-Up Splints) – Used for carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist fractures, or
tendonitis.
• Thumb Spica Brace – Supports the thumb and wrist, often used for de Quervain's
tenosynovitis or scaphoid fractures.
• Elbow Hinged Brace – Limits elbow movement in cases of ligament injuries or post-
surgical stabilization.
• Shoulder Immobilizer – Provides support after shoulder dislocations, rotator cuff
injuries, or clavicle fractures.

2. Lower Extremity Braces and Splints

Lower extremity braces provide crucial support to the knee, ankle, and foot, helping to stabilize
joints, offload pressure, and allow safe movement during rehabilitation.

• Knee Immobilizer
o Indications: Post-operative knee surgery, ligament sprains, patellar fractures.
o Function: Maintains the knee in full extension to prevent flexion.
o Design Features: Rigid posterior support, adjustable Velcro straps, and breathable
padding.
• Functional ACL Brace
o Indications: Post-ACL reconstruction, knee instability, ligament sprains.
o Function: Limits excessive anterior tibial translation while allowing controlled knee
movement.
o Design Features: Lightweight carbon fiber or aluminum frame with adjustable hinges.
• Ankle Stirrup Brace
o Indications: Acute ankle sprains, chronic instability, post-fracture stabilization.
o Function: Prevents excessive inversion and eversion of the ankle.
o Design Features: Rigid plastic shells with inflatable or gel padding for compression.
• Walking Boot (CAM Boot)
o Indications: Foot and ankle fractures, severe sprains, Achilles tendon injuries, post-
surgical protection.
o Function: Allows protected weight-bearing while immobilizing the foot and ankle.