Orthotic Treatment of Neuromusclar Diseases

Orthotics

Neuromuscular conditions are the result of a communication breakdown between parts of the nervous system and muscles they control. These conditions can occur at any age, ranging from congenital presentations to conditions that occur in adulthood.

Some prevalent congenital neuromuscular conditions include cerebral palsy, spina bifida (also called myelomeningocele), and both Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies. Frequently treated neuromuscular diseases in adulthood include stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth. Some of these conditions, such as muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis, are progressive disorders that worsen over time, whereas others, like stroke and cerebral palsy, are non-progressive.

Hanger Clinic has the expertise to treat a variety of neuromuscular diseases with the use of orthotic devices. Orthotic intervention for neuromuscular disorders varies widely depending on the goals of the treatment.

Generally, an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) can be used to treat dysfunction of the foot and ankle caused by a variety of neurological and musculoskeletal disorders described above. In some instances of neuromuscular disease, bracing of the spine and/or upper extremities may also be required. Cervical orthoses can also be used with ALS patients who have difficulty positioning their head and neck due to muscle weakness.