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The Align Clinic Blog
​ Your Home For Orthotic and Prosthetic Knowledge

What’s a Leg Shrinker and How Can It Help Your Child?

2/15/2023

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Leg shrinkers are therapeutic aids designed to help improve mobility and reduce leg pain. Whether your child is born with a condition or has suffered an injury, a leg shrinker can enhance their quality of life.

Living with limited mobility can be difficult for children, affecting their day-to-day activities, lifestyle, and overall well-being. Fortunately, leg shrinkers can provide support to help them move more freely with less pain.

When used correctly, leg shrinkers can tremendously impact restoring mobility and improving quality of life. Read on to learn more about this helpful tool, how it works, and what benefits it can provide to your child.

What’s a Leg Shrinker?

A leg shrinker is a medical device designed to help children with leg length discrepancy (LLD). It consists of two straps placed around the thighs and can be adjusted for different compression levels.

The device's purpose is to stretch the longer leg and relieve pain or discomfort. The pressure applied to the strap causes the soft tissue to contract and shrink, making the leg shorter.

The compression level can be altered to meet the specific needs of each patient. It's important to keep in mind that a leg shrinker should only be used under a doctor's supervision.

Benefits of Using a Leg Shrinker

Using a leg shrinker can provide numerous benefits for children with mobility issues. Here are four major advantages to consider when looking into this therapeutic aid.

1. Improved Stability

Leg shrinkers can help improve overall stability and reduce the risk of falls. The device applies even pressure around the legs, making it easier for children to stand upright and move without worrying about slipping or losing balance. 

The even pressure of the leg shrinker also helps balance out discrepancies between the legs and reduces pain in areas with tightness or tenderness. 

2. Increased Mobility

The adjustable pressure of the leg shrinker helps reduce muscle pain and tension, allowing for improved mobility. Children can move around more easily with greater flexibility and range of motion.

For children with congenital conditions, using a leg shrinker can help improve the alignment of their legs and reduce pain associated with walking. The device helps stretch the longer leg and reduce asymmetry, allowing for more comfortable movement.

Using a leg shrinker can also help improve coordination and gait patterns. The improved alignment of the legs can reduce fatigue and make it easier to walk or move with more ease.

3. Enhanced Comfort

Comfort is often a major concern when it comes to mobility devices. Leg shrinkers are designed to be comfortable and adjustable, allowing for a custom fit specific to each person's needs.

The device is lightweight, breathable, and adjustable for different compression levels. The straps are made from a durable, gentle material on the skin and won't cause irritation or discomfort.

4. Better Posture

Having better posture can significantly improve one's health and wellbeing in general. With the help of a leg shrinker, children can improve their posture by reducing asymmetry in the legs.

The device can help straighten the spine and distribute weight evenly, allowing for better posture. This will help with breathing, coordination, and balance. By improving posture, children can move freely and comfortably.

Who Can Benefit From a Leg Shrinker?

The use of a leg shrinker can be beneficial for kids with cerebral palsy or other neuromuscular disorders. It provides the support needed to help maintain proper positioning for the lower limbs, helping prevent muscle contractures and encourage healthy movement.

If your child has difficulty staying in one position and finds it difficult to remain standing, they may benefit from a leg shrinker. 

Additionally, suppose your child has already experienced joint contractures due to muscle spasticity or stiffness. In that case, the leg shrinker can help reduce the impact of those contractures by providing support and relieving pressure on those joints.

Finally, new amputees may find that a leg shrinker can help them transition to using prosthetics. The leg shrinker can help the amputee learn how to stand and walk again and provide support for the remaining leg.

Types of Leg Shrinkers  

Leg shrinkers come in various sizes and styles, so it's important to know what type of leg shrinker is best for your child. Leg shrinkers come in three primary categories, depending on the user's requirements:

1. Above Knee

Just above the knee, the leg shrinker fits tightly around the leg. Its adjustable straps help provide even pressure to the area, helping to reduce pain and tension.

2. Below Knee

It wraps around the leg and calf, just under the knee. This leg shrinker helps support the knee joint and improves the lower legs' stability. It can help reduce pain and discomfort, allowing for better mobility for your child.

3. Ankle Length

The ankle-length leg shrinker fits around the ankle, providing support to the lower limbs and helping to reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, it aids with balancing and stability for greater mobility. For ultimate comfort and protection, its adjustable straps allow for a customizable fit.

How to Use a Leg Shrinker Effectively

When using a leg shrinker, there are five key ways to ensure it’s used correctly and to get the best results. To get the most out of your leg shrinker, follow these tips:

  • Ensure proper fit by measuring the length of your child's lower limb before purchasing a leg shrinker.

  • When performing tasks that call for standing or walking, be sure to wear the leg shrinker.

  • Adjust the straps regularly to ensure proper fit and alignment.

  • Practice daily stretching and exercise routines to keep the legs strong and flexible.

  • Regularly check for wear signs, such as fraying or discoloration, and replace as necessary.

  • Monitor your child's progress to ensure their condition is improving with the use of the leg shrinker.

Help Your Child Thrive

Leg shrinkers help improve mobility and reduce pain for children with limited movement. With the right support, these aids can provide your child with an improved quality of life that allows them to engage in activities they otherwise may not have been able to do.
​

Align Clinic specializes in scoliosis and pediatric orthotics and can help determine if a leg shrinker is the right solution for your child and guide you through the process. To find out more about how we can help your child thrive, contact us right away.
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How to Choose the Right Orthosis Device for Your Condition

2/8/2023

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Orthosis devices help in supporting, aligning, and protecting different parts of the body such as the limbs, joints, and spine. They play a crucial role in the management of various conditions such as joint pain, spinal injuries, and osteoarthritis. They also help in supporting weakened muscles, relieve pain, and reduce the progression of tightened tendons and muscles. Additionally, orthosis devices are used in physiotherapy to stretch and straighten muscles, restore balance and grip, and improve gait.

In a nutshell, orthotics help in improving your overall function after an injury or illness. Orthosis is derived from the Greek word “ortho” which means “making straight.”

Orthosis devices are also known as orthopedic braces. There is a wide range of orthosis devices available in the market. It can be challenging to choose the right one for your specific needs. In this article, we will discuss the factors that you need to consider when selecting the right orthosis device for your condition.

First, let’s look at the different types of orthosis devices.

Types of Orthosis Devices

There are different types of orthosis devices, each used on a different body part. Here’s an overview of orthosis devices available:
​
  • Spine Orthoses: These are external orthosis devices used to support a patient’s spine. They stabilize and maintain spinal alignment to help in curing or preventing spinal deformities from a herniated disc. Besides keeping a fractured spine stable, they also support weakened muscle groups and restore malformed body portions. Additionally, an orthosis device can protect a body component from additional harm or correct a body part's posture.

  • Wrist-Hand Orthosis: The primary purpose of wrist-hand orthosis devices is to reduce or immobilize wrist motion and enhance the stability of the wrist and hand. They limit excessive wrist and hand movements and also help in treating biomechanical nonalignment. The device only covers the wrist so the patient can still use their fingers. 

  • Foot Orthoses: Foot orthosis devices include ankle braces and arch support. They are often used by patients with severe foot problems, foot/ ankle inflammation, and ligament laxity. They are designed based on the patient's shoe size and inserted inside the shoes. They also help in correcting foot abnormalities that impede a patient’s foot health and performance.

  • Elbow Orthosis: The elbow orthosis is very handy for dealing with elbow injuries. They limit elbow flexion during post-surgical rehabilitation, ligament damage, or a physical injury. There are some variations of elbow orthosis, such as the one that comes with elastic metal joints, for treating more severe cases. 

  • Ankle Foot Orthoses: These protect the foot and the ankle. Some of the foot and ankle conditions they help cure include avulsion fracture, osteoarthritis, or foot eversion. Their main purpose is to help relieve pain and enhance walking mobility. Ankle foot orthoses are also ideal for people suffering from distal muscle weakness.

  • Head Orthoses: They are also referred to as cranial orthoses. They are used in treating various conditions such as plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly in newborn children. They are also highly recommended for young patients who require additional head protection.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Orthosis Device

There are many orthotic devices, each with minor changes designed to assist people with various mobility issues. Generally, almost all orthotics are named after the body part they support. With the different types of orthotic devices available, there are various things to consider when you’re searching for the best one suited for you.

Here are the factors you should consider when choosing an orthosis device:

1. Medical Condition

As mentioned, orthosis devices are generally named after the body parts they support. This means that the most important thing to consider is your medical condition. Different orthosis devices are designed to treat specific medical conditions, such as knee braces for knee osteoarthritis, back braces for spinal injuries, and wrist braces for carpal tunnel syndrome. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the type of orthosis device that would best suit your needs.

2. Level of Support

The level of support that you require from an orthosis device also depends on the severity of your medical condition. For instance, if you have a mild condition, a simple brace may be sufficient, but if your condition is more severe, a more rigid and supportive device may be necessary. You need an expert to determine the right kind of support you need. 

3. Comfort and Ease of Use

The orthosis device that you choose should be comfortable to wear, especially if you are required to wear it for an extended period. Look for devices that are made from soft, breathable materials, and have adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. If you have sensitive skin, consider choosing a device with a smooth, non-irritating surface.

Additionally, it’s important to choose an orthosis device that you can easily put on and take off. Devices with adjustable straps and simple fastening systems are often the most convenient and user-friendly options.

4. Durability

Orthosis devices can be expensive, so it is crucial to choose one that is durable and built to last. Look for devices made from high-quality materials, such as lightweight and durable metals, that are resistant to wear and tear.

5. Flexibility

Some orthosis devices are designed to be more flexible, allowing for a greater range of motion, while others are more rigid, providing more support. The level of flexibility that you require depends on your medical condition and the type of activity that you engage in. It is essential to discuss your flexibility needs with your doctor to ensure that you choose the right orthosis device.

6. Customization

In some cases, a custom-made orthosis device may be required to provide the best fit and support. Custom orthosis devices are made to fit your body precisely, ensuring the best possible outcome. We can assist you in determining if a custom-made device is necessary for your specific condition.

7. Cost

Orthosis devices can be expensive, so it is important to consider your budget when choosing one. In some cases, your insurance may cover the cost of an orthosis device, but it is essential to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

8. Brand Reputation

There are many orthosis device manufacturers and providers. You should always go for reputable brands and buy your orthosis devices from quality service providers such as Align Clinic. We strive to provide the highest quality products and services to all of our patients, based on our combined 60 years of experience. We will provide a thorough evaluation of your individual needs including muscle testing, range of motion, sensation, and gait assessment to find a treatment plan suited to your goals.

Get the Right Orthosis Device From Align Clinic
​

Choosing the right orthosis device for your medical condition is crucial for ensuring that you receive the best possible support and protection. These tips will help you select the right orthosis device for your needs. If you feel you need an orthosis device, book an appointment today with one of our orthosis experts to discuss any questions or concerns you might have.
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Scoliosis Bracing: Things to Consider Before Getting One

2/1/2023

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Scoliosis bracing is common among people suffering from scoliosis. This treatment strategy has been around for a while now and it combines different modalities. However, most people wonder if scoliosis bracing is an effective option.

In this article, we will look at the different scoliosis bracing options and what to consider before choosing one. 

What is Scoliosis Bracing?

To understand what scoliosis bracing is, we must first gain insight into what scoliosis is. Simply put, scoliosis is a condition that results in an abnormal spine curve. When your spine has an abnormal curve, it can lead to back pain, uneven shoulders and hips, rib cage tilting, body tilting, and the head not being centered.

Doctors recommend wearing a scoliosis brace around the torso to treat this condition. The bracing prevents the spine curve from getting worse. It can also slow the progression of the spine curve. However, it’s very important to note that a brace for scoliosis only works in both children and adults who experience bone growth. 

Therefore, it may not be ideal if your bones have stopped growing. According to most doctors, it should be worn starting from an early growth stage of between 9 and 12 years up to skeletal maturity that ranges from 15 to 16 years in females.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) has indicated that scoliosis bracing is effective in 80% of the patients treated with it.


Should I Get One?

Scoliosis braces cannot correct the scoliosis condition and are only ideal if you want to keep the curve on the spine from deteriorating. It can be effective if you want to manage the condition during the early stages. 

In children, bracing is recommended to slow down curvature progression by manipulating the spine. Also, scoliosis braces provide support for adults and eliminates spinal movement.

Things to Consider Before Getting One

Before getting a brace for your thoracic or sacral spine, several things should be considered. Here are some of the things to keep in mind.

The Severity of the Curve

If you have a mild spine curve, your doctor might not recommend treatment immediately. However, this may change if the curve worsens and gets to 25 degrees to 40 degrees. Also, this treatment may not work if the curve is more than 40 degrees.

Your Age

Other than the severity of the curve, your age can also be a great determinant when deciding whether or not to get braces. You may want to consider correcting scoliosis with a brace if your bones are still growing. If they have stopped growing, scoliosis braces may not be of help and you may have to consider surgery.

Type of Bracing

There are different types of braces in the market and the most suitable will depend on your specific needs. If you want one that you can wear during the day and at night, you can consider a full-time brace. On the other hand, a nighttime brace is only designed to be worn at night.

The Types of Braces You Need

Generally, there are two types of scoliosis bracing available to choose from- full-time braces and nighttime braces. Full-time braces offer more support and are more comfortable while nighttime braces provide a more intense treatment.

Full-Time Braces
As the name suggests, these braces are designed to be worn both during the day and at night. There are different types of braces in this category. They include:

  • Boston Brace
    This is a common type of scoliosis brace that is usually made from prefabricated mold options. Also considered a type of TLSO (thoracic-lumbar-sacral orthosis), this scoliosis brace applied corrective pressure on the outer part of the curve. It then has a cutout on the inner side of the curve, allowing the spine to go in that direction.

  • Wilmington Brace
    Like the Boston brace, the Wilmington brace is also a type of TLSO. A difference, however, is that this brace is usually custom-designed to fit each wearer. This is done when the patient is lying down and facing upward. 

    Depending on the patient’s spinal curve, the orthotist places corrective forces to fit their requirements. This scoliosis brace works by applying it to the body to achieve a tight fit. Hence, it has no open spots or gaps.

  • Milwaukee Brace
    This is a common type of cervico-thoracic-lumbar-sacral orthosis (CTLSO). Crafted from a contoured plastic pelvic girdle, this scoliosis brace is designed with the patient’s full upper body in mind. There is also a neck ring for keeping the head in a central position. 

    It goes from the pelvic to the neck and is most suitable for those with a thoracic curve. Both the front and the rear of the brace are connected with a metal bar that helps to extend the torso. 

Nighttime Braces
These braces are worn at night while lying down. They are more intense and are known to overcorrect the spine. Some of the nighttime braces for scoliosis include:

  • Charleston Bending Brace
    This is a TLSO scoliosis brace that is highly recommended for nighttime or when you are lying down for an extended time. It is custom-made to fit your spinal curve and your body and works by applying strong pressure on your spine. As a result, it bends the spine beyond your back’s midline.

  • Providence Scoliosis Brace
    Unlike the previous nighttime scoliosis brace, this bracing comes with improved comfort while still ensuring maximum curve correction. It works by applying direct opposing forces to the abnormal curve rather than bending the spine. It is, however, considered uncomfortable, especially when one walks with it.

The Length of The Time Needed

Usually, the period for wearing a scoliosis brace will depend on your curve. Nevertheless, most orthopedic doctors recommend wearing the brace at least 18 hours to 20 hours a day. 

For children, the length will depend on their curves as they are growing. However, it is best to note this brace works best when a child is growing and ends when they are done growing. 


The Pros and Cons of Wearing One

Pros:
  • Helps stop or slow spine curvature progression
  • ​Available in different types
  • Enables the body to maintain correct posture
  • Limits chances of spinal surgery

Cons:
  • It may not work if the curvature is severe
  • Only works when bones are growing
  • Causes blisters, soreness, and rashes
  • Traditional braces can do more harm than good

Other Options to Consider

One of the most common problems with scoliosis bracing is that it only deals with the symptoms of the condition. Hence, it does not address the underlying issue. What’s more, it may not tackle conditions where the curvature is over 40 degrees. In this case, you may want to consider other options. 

They include:


  • Exercise
    To make scoliosis bracing more effective, there is a need to incorporate a training exercise routine to reduce the spine curve and improve breathing. Eventually, this will help slow down the curvature progression.
 
  • ScoliSMART Activity Suit
    This activity suit helps to create a new posture memory that can help your spine to unwind. It works with the body’s natural torque pattern to stabilize the muscles and reduce the curvature without applying any pain or pressure.

  • Surgery
    If your curve is severe, then you may want to consider undergoing surgery to correct it. This is because bracing only works for curves that range from 25 degrees to 40 degrees. Surgery may also be suggested if the curve is more than 50 degrees as this indicates nerve damage.

Conclusion

Ultimately, scoliosis bracing can come in handy if you want to slow the progression of spine curvature. It can be sued in both children and adolescents with skeletal maturity. However, this treatment is limited and may not correct the condition completely.
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San Mateo, California
700 S Claremont St
Suite #105
San Mateo, CA 94402 
Hours: 8:30-5:30 M-F
​Phone: (650) 375-2231
Fax: (650) 627-4632
Green Bay, Wisconsin
445 Cardinal Lane
Suite #110
Green Bay, WI 54313
Hours: 8:30-5:30 M-F
Phone: (920) 940-5277
Fax: (844) 308-8462


Houston, Texas
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The Woodlands, TX  77380
Hours: 8:30-5:30 M-F
​Phone: (346) 770-2970
Fax: (281) 419-1615
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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​Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313
attention only by appointment
Phone:
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Fax: (844) 308-8462
Photos used under Creative Commons from shixart1985, wuestenigel
  • Home
  • Locations
    • AC San Mateo, CA >
      • Inside AC SM
      • Our Practitioners >
        • Grant Wood
        • Steve Baum
        • Miguel Bustamante
      • Advanced Technology
      • Stanford Children's Health Partnership
      • Local Hotels
      • Contact Us
      • Team Members
    • AC Green Bay, WI >
      • Inside Wisconsin
      • Patient Testimonials
      • Contact Us
      • Emery Maloney
    • AC The Woodlands, TX
    • AC Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • The WCR Brace
    • Case Presentations >
      • Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis
      • Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis
      • Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
      • Switching to a WCR Brace
      • Adult Scoliosis Bracing
      • Neuromuscular Scoliosis
      • Treating Upper Thoracic Curves
    • Brace Articles
    • Patient Testimonials >
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    • Past Events >
      • Advancements in Conservative Treatment of Scoliosis 2018 >
        • Award for Advancements in the Conservative Treatment of Scoliosis
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      • Advancements in Conservative Treatment Of Scoliosis 2017
      • Shanghai Clinic
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    • Past SOSORT Conferences >
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      • SOSORT2017 Lyon/France
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    • Northeast Region Re-Align Clinic
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