Lower extremity orthotic management for the spinal-cord-injured client

Abstract

The desire to ambulate following traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is ever present. However, the practicality of walking for most complete SCI clients is minimal to none due to the energy requirements. On the other hand, people with incomplete injuries, both tetraplegia and paraplegia, are much more likely to regain some ambulation ability. These clients usually require walking aids and orthotic devices. This article summarizes the use of, and need for, a variety of lower extremity orthoses and the energy required to use them. The article also takes a closer look at the component parts of lower extremity orthotic devices. Last, this article gives a brief summary of functional electrical nerve stimulation (FES) as it is used in this client population for standing and stepping.