The Glasgow/Maastricht foot model is the result of three years of work by researchers at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU). “Previous to this development, most computer models of the human body ended in a black rectangle – the foot was too complicated to model,” said Professor Jim Woodburn, project coordinator at GCU who worked with colleagues at Maastricht University. The human foot is difficult to model because it has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles.
This new model will be used to test new treatments and cures which will hopefully lead to faster recovery times for those injured, better orthotics, as well as other improvements. Although there are developments such as this, it is still recommended to see a podiatrist such Dr. Zahid Ladha, F.A.C.F.A.S. of Foot First Podiatry if you think you need orthotics or treatment for a foot injury. Dr. Ladha can diagnose your foot injury, address your concerns, and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.
Orthoses
Orthoses are devices used to correct physical impairments that are caused by scoliosis, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, or foot deformities. Orthopedic devices control, guide, limit or immobilize body segments. They assist in movement; reduce weight bearing forces and aid in rehabilitation from fractures. They also correct the shape and function of the body.
Orthoses include ankle foot orthosis, thoracolumbosacral orthosis, knee orthosis and wrist hand orthosis. When orthoses were first made, plaster of Paris molds were made of the patient and then materials like plastic, elastic, metal or a combination of those materials. Now braces for participants in contact sports are made from neoprene to allow movement but reduce the range of movement.
Different Types of Braces
-The Boston Brace
-Used to assist patients who suffer from scoliosis.
-The Charleston Bending Brace
-This is worn only at night, the design of this brace is built to correct the curve of the scoliosis.
-The Milwaukee Brace
-Used for mid-back curves. This brace consists of a plastic pelvic girdle and a neck ring. This brace is rarely used but patients with a curve very high in the spine can benefit from wearing it.
-A knee orthosis is a brace worn to given the knee strength. Ostero arthritiscan cause significant pain, knee braces allow a person to remain active.
Orthoses have changed over the decades as new material and technology have advanced. The materials used for the actual orthotic devices have evolved and help to stop pain and give patients the ability to move pain free.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office which is located in New Albany, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.