What is a positioning orthosis?

A reduction in motor function can lead to shortened muscles and tendons (contractures). This causes muscles and joints to become misaligned. Finger flexion of the hand (“claw hand”), internal movement of the thighs (“adductor spasticity” and foot drop (“pointed foot position”) are common.

Positioning orthoses counteract misalignments caused by contractures or help to prevent the development of contractures. The orthoses are made of plastic, which – based on a plaster cast – is adapted to the individual shape of the body region to be treated. The positioning orthoses must be worn for several hours a day in order to be fully effective. They are worn either at bedtime or during other times when the limb is at rest (e.g. when watching television or during other relaxation phases)