Ankle

Yes.

A prerequisite of this is to firstly recommend Orthotics in different tiers of management, such as recommending the cheapest, lowest risks options first.

We provide ongoing options and education surrounding equipment, so the patient can choose with an informed decision.

For example, a patient may visit and choose a regular AFO model. After some time, the patient loves the AFO and wishes to upgrade this to a carbon-fibre model.

In this case, we would use the cast we already have on file, or retake a new cast, then make a new model AFO exactly the same.

Follow-up appointments will be recommended by your Orthotist.

In these appointments, we will reassess if what we’re trying to achieve has been achieved, namely the management of symptoms and improving daily life/function.

The equipment’s condition and settings will be reviewed.

We would suggest the most common ankle referrals relate to:

• Ankle osteoarthritis
• Foot drop
• Lateral ligament injuries
• ASOs
• Moon boots
• Tibialis posterior dysfunction (severe pronated feet)
• General ankle pain

This varies depending on the condition.

If it’s an osteoarthritic ankle, our suggestions will be based on the severity of the condition.

Early osteoarthritis may respond well to support, adjustments in ankle posture with orthotics and an exercise program as well as other interventions such as medications. Late stage osteoarthritis, where other interventions have been unsuccessful, may respond well to reducing movement and controlling the ankle joint. This is often in lieu or a precursor to an ankle fusion.

For ligament injuries, typically we will work collaboratively with a Physiotherapist but provide an environment of functional healing. This is where the damaged ligament is protected during the early phases of healing. Many ligaments respond well to appropriate loading during the healing process, but too much and excessive movement can be detrimental.

For fractures, typically there is no exercise prescription during the acute phase, however after the cast is removed, we would recommend a Physio or rehabilitation specialist. We may also prescribe a basic range of motion exercises.

For those who have been immobilised for a long time, a less conservative brace may be suggested to allow confidence to build back in the injured limb.

E.g. for a patient coming out of a lower limb cast after 8 weeks, wearing an ASO might make the patient feel more stable and provide the confidence to progress more quickly with their rehabilitation program. It may also protect the injured and weaker ankle from re-injury during the early phases and during their return to sport if this is their goal.

Our Orthotists will provide you this information during your assessment.

The answer to this depends on why the patient is falling.

For people falling as a result of decreased strength in the lower limb, we are likely to make an enormous difference within one session.

In contrast, if that person is falling due to poor eyesight or complications with prescription medication, then that would be outside the scope of our Orthotists.

Orthotics Plus will always provide our recommendations from a holistic perspective, such as recommending undertaking a falls prevention program.