Coping with Your Child’s Scoliosis

Discovering that your child has been living with an unusual physical condition like scoliosis can be very traumatic for parents. Family members ask themselves, "How did we not know?" "When did this start?" "What could we have done?" While there is a normal feeling of guilt and angst that comes with learning your child has scoliosis, it is important to focus on helping your child physically and emotionally to get through this difficult time.

Understanding Scoliosis

The first thing you should do is learn about your child’s condition. There are a number of resources you can utilize to solidify your understanding of scoliosis. You can browse medical websites, talk to other parents or youths with scoliosis and most importantly, talk to your doctor to obtain credible information about scoliosis. It’s important to realize that scoliosis is not a disease or syndrome – it is a condition. It is a curvature of the spine that becomes evident in adolescents during their growth spurt.

The severity of the curve varies greatly by individual case. This severity is what determines the physical risks your child may have. It is crucial that a medical professional diagnose your child’s severity based on x-rays and monitor its progress. It is important that you as a parent to be involved with your child’s care and medical attention. Ask questions and educate yourself so that you can offer real support to your child.

Emotionally Supporting your Child

Scoliosis can be incredibly hard on your child. This condition occurs normally during puberty, an already confusing and trying time for a child. He or she will need positive support and encouragement as they try to understand this condition they’ve been burdened with. If you approach this condition with an optimistic and prepared attitude, your child will too. Your child may mask feelings of fear, anxiety or anger with unusual outbursts, isolation, moodiness or passiveness. You will need to be ready to offer a shoulder as your child learns to understand and accept their condition.

Proactively Seeking Treatment

The majority of scoliosis cases do not require surgery. Surgery is required when the curvature is very extreme and is putting other organs, like the lungs or heart, at risk. Most likely, if your child is still growing, your doctor may recommend wearing a brace. While wearing a brace will not cure or reverse the condition of your child’s scoliosis, it may prevent worsening of the curve. A brace should be worn as many hours a day as possible.

Most likely, your doctor will recommend a thoracolumbosacral orthosis, or TSLO brace. This is a tight fitting brace unnoticeable under clothes and goes under your arms and around the ribcage. In cases where your doctor believes a TSLO brace would not be enough, he may recommend a CTO brace or Milwaukee brace. This type of brace is a full-torso brace and has rests for the chin and neck.

Regardless of the treatment your child needs, the support and love you show your child are invaluable. This type of condition is difficult for both the patient and his/her loved ones, but it is important to keep the focus on the child as they struggle to fight scoliosis.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a supplier of orthopedic medical products including a wide selection of orthopedic braces and supports. From top quality post-operative back braces to a wide selection of arthritis knee braces, MMAR Medical has bracing and support solutions for everyone.

Tips for Avoiding Skiing and Snow Boarding Injuries

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Winter Weather Joint & Brace FAQs

Can you wear a medical brace out in the snow?

Are your support braces water proof or water resistant?

Will I require more support when my joints are cold?

With winter weather upon us, it’s important to take some time to get the answers to your questions on how seasonal changes affect your health and how you use your braces during chillier months.

Does arthritis get worse in cold weather?

• Despite conflicting reports and anecdotal evidence from arthritis sufferers, medical evidence does not conclusively support the idea that arthritis worsens in cold weather. That said, when atmospheric pressure drops during a cold front, the tissues in your joints may react by expanding with the decrease in pressure. This change may put additional pressure on the joints resulting in pain and the stiff feeling in joints.


• Other medical studies suggest that commonly during the darker, colder winter season, moods and pain thresholds drop; therefore, people may ‘feel’ the pain more so than during ‘happier’ months.


• Another key to why joint pain spikes during winter? People are less likely to exercise during the winter months, and physical movement is key to healthily managing arthritis.

Winter solution: Be sure to continue your exercise regimen during the cold months. Not only will exercise improve overall joint function but it is also a tremendous mood booster. Likewise, continue using your arthritic gloves or arthritis knee brace just as you would during warmer months. Be sure to bundle up and keep your body warm to avoid tissue expansion in the joints and additional arthritic pain.

I want to ski and snow board! What knee brace can I use for support?

• If you’re thinking about skiing or snowboarding this season, make sure your orthopedic doctor has given you the go ahead to exercise.


• A quality knee brace will provide support and aid in injury prevention without limiting mobility, look for a brace made out of neoprene - the same material used in wet suits - which is designed to handle intense moisture as well as protect the skin against the cold.


• If you need more than just the light support of a neoprene brace, a hinged knee brace provides support for post-op knee patients who wish to continue vigorous physical activity.

Winter solution: You do not need to worry about water proofing neoprene to protect it from the snow. For other types of braces, wear water resistant pants on top of the brace to prevent water from weathering it or voiding warranties.

What is the difference between waterproof and water resistant products?

Waterproof: Waterproof indicates that water will not enter, leave or damage the item under any circumstances; the item is impervious to water.
Water resistant: Water resistant materials resist water though cannot completely prevent water from passing through the material. Typically, water resistant items can repel water up to a certain degree based on amount of time saturated with water but under certain circumstances, would eventually be permeated by the water.

Winter solutions: Look for medical support braces that are water resistant as your brace may be exposed to increased moisture from snowfall. You can always wear a water resistant pant or waterproof slip over the brace as an additional precaution.

Is there any way to add water resistant protection to a brace I already own?

Yes, there are a number of water resistant sprays that you can easily apply to your brace. Some of these sprays may affect warranties, so be sure to review your brace's warranty prior to apply any third party solvents.

I am worried about slipping on the ice and injuring myself further. What can I do?

• Prior to the winter ice and snow, make sure your high traffic areas outside have hand rails you can use for support when walking.


• Look for shoes that have substantial traction on the bottom to give additional support when walking on icy grounds.


• Be sure to shovel snow and ice away so that you have an accessible and safe walking route.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a supplier of orthopedic medical products including a wide selection of braces and supports. From top quality post-operative back braces to a wide selection of arthritis knee braces, MMAR Medical has bracing and support solutions for everyone.

Exercise for Mature Adults

No matter your age, exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy heart and bone mass. Experts recommend that all adults exercise at least 2.5 hours a week, but 5 hours a week for maximum health benefits. If you’re suffering an injury, consult a professional before beginning an exercise program and always, only exercise to the extent that your condition or physical state allows. Remember not to overexert yourself at the beginning – it will only cause injuries and delay progress.

As you age, external and internal challenges may prevent you from engaging in certain exercises – discomfort, disability, fear of injury or fatigue may come into play. Overcome these anxieties by knowing that exercise and strength training need not be intense and will actually help increase your balance and bone strength which in turn protects you from injuries and boosts energy levels. It’s one of life’s rare win-win-wins.

For maximum health benefits, it is optimal to engage in moderate exercise throughout your life, not just when you age, but of course it is never too late to start. Doctors note that bone loss and loss of flexibility begin as early as your 30s; therefore, it’s never too early to think about how exercise will aid you as you age. This guide reviews the major components of an elderly exercise plan: cardiovascular exercise, strength training, balance and flexibility work, and rest.

• Cardiovascular Exercise: With heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular exercise undoubtedly holds extreme importance. Depending on your current endurance level, incorporate a goal of 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a day. You can start with 5 or 10 minute sessions and work your way up to 30 minutes; it’s more important that you get in the habit of working out your heart and exercise at a level appropriate for your condition rather than hit 30 minute work outs.


• Brisk Walking: low impact, can be done anywhere! Ask a spouse, family member, friend or neighbor to join you in your endurance exercises – it creates accountability for you to continue with the program


• Swimming: even more low impact than walking! Join a gym and try out a water aerobics class or simply grab some flippers and create your own swimming workout..


• Stationary Bike: takes the weight off the knees! Stationary bikes give a great alternative for those with weak knees who also want back support. You don’t have to worry about balancing on a stationary bike; therefore, they are a safer idea for the elder exercising


• Dancing: fun and a good heart work out! Many elders enjoy dancing and it’s an excellent form of exercise as well as a social outlet.


• Strength Training: Often overlooked as an important part to an exercise program for older adults, strength training is beneficial to an adult exerciser. Sick of wearing your back braces? Strength training helps combat osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, obesity and back pain, among other ailments. With falls as the leading cause of injury related death in adults over 65, strength training helps develop the muscles to balance and avoid potentially fatal falls.


• Squats: Use a stable chair for this exercise. Begin seated, with your hands on your hips. Push with your legs as you rise to stand from the chair. Repeat 10 – 12 times. You can modify this for additional balance stabilization or support by placing the chair in front of a counter, or other stable and strong surface, and using the counter to balance as you hoist yourself upright. This works the legs, hip flexors and balance.


• Bicep Curls: In a seated or upright standing position, hold a weight in both extended hands with your palms facing up. Curl in your arms toward your chest. Squeeze as you curl your arms in and hold for 5 seconds. Slowly release and uncurl. Repeat 10 – 12 times. This works your arms.


• Shoulder Shrugs: Stand upright and hold a light weight in each of your hands (try a can of soup to start). Shrug your shoulders to your ears, and then lower to normal. You can modify by adding more weight. Repeat 10 – 12 times. Shoulder shrugs work your back, shoulders and balance.


• Toe Raises: Stand upright in front of a counter or chair (to use for balance). Slowly raise up on your toes, off your heels. Stand on the balls of your feet for 5 seconds, then lower. Repeat 10 – 12 times. It can be modified if you’re using an ankle brace or other support braces. This works ankles and balance


• Wall Pushups: Face a wall, standing about an arm’s length away. Have your feet planted shoulder-width apart and firmly on the ground. Lean forward as you place your palms on the wall and bend your elbows, completing the push up. Pause in the push up position for a few seconds, and then extend your arms. Repeat 10-12 times. These work your arms, back and balance.


• Modified V Ups: Lay on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Slowly and carefully raise your knees and swing your arms around your shins to “hug” them in. Next, (provided your ability) drop both knees slowly to the right. Raise them back to the middle and switch, dropping them to the left. Work to 10-12 repetitions. This works your abdomen, back and hip flexors.


• Balance and Flexibility: Working on balance and flexibility develops the muscles and strength to prevent dangerous falls in the elderly.
  
  
  • Flamingo Stands: Stand in front of a stable support, like a doorway or counter. Shift all your weight to your right foot and on your right foot alone. Alternate legs.
  
  
  • Heel-Toe Walk: Walk slowly and carefully, placing the heel of one foot on the ground directly in front of the toes of another foot. For increased modification, walk heel-toe backwards.
  
  
  • Knee Marching: Stand by a counter to use for support if you get wobbly during the knee marches. Raise one knee as high as you comfortably can and tap it with the alternating hand. Lower that knee and then alternate knees.
  
  
• Rest and Recover: Listening to your body and taking time to rest is important at any age, but especially when exercising as an older adult. Don’t overexert yourself, but recognize that exercise is vital to keeping you healthy and strong as you age..


• If you are feeling mild pain or inflammation in your joints, try a cold therapy system. Cold therapy helps alleviate swelling and mild pain, but avoid cold therapy if you have stiff joints or arthritis. For arthritis sufferers, use a moist heat pad to provide temporary pain relief.


• For sore and aching muscles, rest and elevate your limbs. Remember that a mild amount of soreness is normal when first resuming an exercise regimen; however, also ensure you pay attention to your body’s warning signs.


• If you have weak knees or back, talk to a doctor or physician about getting medical support braces or back braces to use when exercising.

It’s never too late to begin an exercise program, so jump in and get closer to a stronger, more balanced and healthier life!

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is one of North America's premiere medical orthopedic brace distributors, carrying a large selection of carpal tunnel braces and complimentary rehabilitative cold therapy units. Based in Houston Texas, MMAR also carries a back brace and unloader knee brace selection.

Top Yoga Moves for Joint Pain

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15 Most Common Football Injuries

Between youth football, high school football, college football, and professional football, millions of Americans take the field every year to sport their teams’ colors. Football is America’s game, but is also a physically demanding, high-impact, collision sport that can take a toll on the body. No matter what level you’re playing at, it’s important to make sure you take care of your body and address any injuries that arise as soon as they happen to prevent problems later on in life.

Here’s a list of the top 15 most common sports injuries in football:

General

1. Broken Bone

Any bone can be broken when playing football- from small bones like fingers and toes to large bones like legs and even spines. Broken bones should be splinted immediately by a trainer if possible and x-rays should be done to determine the location and type of break so that they can be properly set.

Head/Neck

2. Pinched Brachial Plexus

Commonly referred to as a "Stinger" or "Burner." A stinger is an incredibly painful nerve injury that results when the nerves in the neck are stretched, causing nerves in the shoulder to pinch or bruise. The result is a sharp pain (like that of an electric shock or lightning strike) and arm numbness and weakness. Effects are usually temporary and subside quickly. If effects linger consult a doctor.

3. Concussion

Concussions are graded 1-3 based on severity and can vary greatly in terms of recovery time. If a player is suspected to have a concussion they need to be evaluated by a medical professional immediately. Certain tests may be run to determine if a player has a concussion and a doctor may order that a player wait days, weeks, or even months before returning to the field.

Back/Shoulder

4. Shoulder Dislocation

An upward and backward wrenching of the shoulder can cause a shoulder dislocation. Once a shoulder is dislocated from the socket it should be popped back in right away to avoid unnecessary pain and additional injury to the area. Depending on the situation x-rays may be needed to determine if any damage has been done to the area.

5. AC Separation

Commonly referred to as a "Separated Shoulder". Many people believe a dislocated shoulder and separated shoulder are the same thing, but they are actually different injuries. A separated shoulder is often the result of a fall, and involves a tear of the ligaments between the clavicle (collar bone) and acromion bone (the highest point of the shoulder blade). The result is that the clavicle will actually stick up. Depending on the severity of the injury cold packs and a shoulder immobilization brace may lessen the pain and allow the shoulder to heal. In other cases surgery may be needed.

6. Back Sprain

Back sprains can come in all shapes and sizes but with ice and the right lumbar back brace back sprains can usually be corrected. It’s always a good idea though to consult a physician, sports therapist, or chiropractor to make sure that they injury isn’t severe, requiring more extensive treatment.

7. Herniated Disc

Commonly referred to as a "Slipped Disc" or "Ruptured Disc." Small spongy discs cushion the vertebrate in your back and act as shock absorbers while you engage in activities like running and tackling. When a disc is overly strained it can bulge or rupture, causing the disc to become herniated. To avoid serious back injuries later in life it’s important to consult a doctor to determine the best course of action.

Leg/Knee/Ankle/Foot

8. Quadriceps Contusion

Contusions to quadriceps can result from impact to the front of the thigh from something like a helmet. Compression and ice are important in the recovery process with quadriceps contusions, and often early motion can also aid in preventing stiffness from developing.

9. Hamstring Sprain

Commonly referred to as a "Hamstring Pull". Hamstring pulls are actually a tear in the hamstring muscle fibers and can result from sudden acceleration or a blow to the body. Hamstring pulls can vary greatly in severity but often plague sufferers with repeat problems throughout an athletic career. Ice, compression therapy and rest are important to properly heal a hamstring pull.

10. Iliac Crest Contusion

Commonly referred to as a "Hip Pointer." An iliac crest contusion is a bruise or a fracture to the iliac crest region of the hip that is treated with ice and padding.

11. Ankle Sprain

Ankle sprains are the most common sport injury and result when damage is done to the soft tissue and ligaments surrounding the ankle because of excessive twisting. The "RICE" method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) are used to reduce swelling after an ankle sprain. Ankle braces and wraps can help speed up recovery as well.

12. Syndesmotic Sprain

Commonly referred to as a "High Ankle Sprain." A high ankle sprain is caused when the leg and foot twist outward and can be much more serious than a regular ankle sprain. In addition to using rest, ice, compression, and elevation to treat a high ankle sprain, a hinged ankle brace or cast may be necessary in more severe cases.

13. Turf Toe

Turf toe is an injury to the base of the big toe from running or jumping on hard surfaces. This makes basketball players and football players on artificial turf more likely to sustain this kind of injury.

14. ACL/MCL/PCL Tear

ACL, MCL and PCL injuries most frequently result when landing from a jump or changing directions suddenly. When the ACL, MCL or PCL tears often a “pop” will be heard and the knee will give out. These type of injuries are incredibly painful and require highly specialized hinged knee braces, extensive physical therapy, and surgery to recover. Amongst athletes these are some of the most feared injuries due to the long recovery times associated with them.

15. Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is two pieces of cartilage that cushion and support the knee joint. Meniscus tears often accompany ACL and MCL injuries and are very easy to reinjure if not given the proper time to heal fully. Ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy are essential in healing properly after a meniscus tear. Surgery may even be required depending on the individual circumstance.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a supplier of medical products including a wide selection of medical grade braces and cold therapy products. To find a quality medical knee braces and supports, please visit MMAR Medical online.

Exercise Guide to Strengthening your Back

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Top 10 Graduate Schools for Sports Medicine

As one of North America's largest orthopedic brace distributors with a huge selection of sports and post operative knee braces, here at MMAR Medical, we work with a variety of sports medicine professionals. Over the years, the MMAR team has had the pleasure of learning about our clients' different sports medicine backgrounds and education. We have been impressed by the myriad of sports medicine options there are, from innovative study programs to amazing residencies around the globe. This got us thinking about the best colleges for sports medicine studies in the US.

Whether you are a sports medicine professional looking to see where your alma mater falls on the top 10*, or a student looking to discern the right educational path for your sports medicine career, this is a great starting point. For a more extensive list of top 10 colleges, U.S. News and World Report perform an annual rankings list for the nation's best colleges as well as graduate schools.

Here is our official list of the Sport Medicine big hitters!

1. The University of South California in Los Angeles, California – Ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report for Physical Therapy, USC holds many accolades in the PT world that oust other graduate school competitors in the field. For example, USC created the first PhD in Physical Therapy degree program. USC holds a revered research program in the field and offers clinical exposure in Physical Therapy for students and staff.



2. The University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Pitt ranks high for its graduate program in Physical Therapy and is also recognized as a leader in residency programs for Orthopaedic Surgery


3. Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri – Washington University tied with Pitt in the U.S. News & World Report for best Physical Therapy schools, but lacks in the prestige for its Orthopaedic Surgery programs. Washington University brags about its unique student learning experience provided in the Orthopaedic Surgery residency program which covers all facets of orthopaedics, allowing for its students to receive a comprehensive and top quality education.


4. The University of Rochester in Rochester, New York – While the University of Rochester hasn’t been recognized for its Physical Therapy school, the Medical Center department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation consistently receives one of the top research grants to promote its specialization. It homes one of the few, established musculoskeletal research centers in the United States.


5. The University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa – The University of Iowa ranks #3 by the U.S. News & World Report because of its prestige in Physical Therapy programs. Another bragging point for this university is that the students demonstrate a 100% pass rate on the physical therapy licensure exam, which illuminates the schools’ history of academic excellence.



6. The University of Delaware in Newark, Delaware – Delaware also holds top rankings for its Physical Therapy school for its quality clinical education, PhD training program for students and cutting edge research.


7. Arcadia University in Glenside, Pennsylvania – One of the many positives to graduating with a degree from Arcadia University include having studied with an internationally recognized staff. Join the Arcadia Physical Therapy e-Newsletter for up-to-date information and relevant news.


8. MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, Massachusetts – Founded by the Massachusetts General Hospital, this graduate school is uniquely designed to work closely with the public health sector.


9. Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois – Northwestern created the innovative Northwestern University Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences division to better the health care and sports medicine field through its education. It is a graduate program truly geared to promote positive change for sports medicine professionals.


10. The University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida – Miami rounds out our top 10 for best graduate schools for sports medicine due to its high ranking Physical Therapy school. A huge advantage to choosing Miami is the cost benefit; not only do Miami students benefit from one of the lowest tuitions, but Miami has block tuition – tuition costs will be the same for the entire academic experience.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is one of North America's premiere medical orthopedic brace distributors, carrying a large selection of medical braces and complimentary rehabilitative cold therapy units. Based in Houston Texas, MMAR specializes in orthopedic braces, including a wide slection of back braces and ACL tear braces for sports medicine professionals and the athletes they treat.

Orthotics for Children – A Review of “Arch Angels” Insoles for Kids

Children start developing arches around ages 3-4 when they lose their baby fat and begin developing muscles in their feet and legs as they learn to walk and run. This new muscle development is why young kids fatigue faster than older kids. Signs of foot fatigue include asking to be picked up, complaining, and tripping or stumbling.

During this transition time as kids begin to develop arches pediatric comfort insoles can be used to aid in the proper development of arches by positioning the foot correctly. If you are a parent that wears orthotics you probably know that there are hundreds of options to choose from, but when it comes to kids orthotics, options are limited. While more options are available today than ever before, Arch Angels insoles for children were the first comfort shoe insole for kids that was available directly to parents. With their sturdy kid-friendly construction and affordable price tag, Arch Angels remain one of the most popular brands of insoles for children on the market.

Benefits of Kids Orthotics

• Maintains proper foot positioning as feet grow


• Provides arch support for children


• Reduces muscle strain to prevent fatigue


• Stabilizes the heel to reduce foot and leg injuries


• Helps kids keep their balance

Arch Angels Features

• Flexible shock absorbing layer for greater comfort


• Durable, non-toxic construction


• Easily hand-washable


• Fits in most shoes

The great part about Arch Angels kids orthotics is that they provide all of the benefits of custom orthotics without the cost. The Arch Angels foam molds to the child’s foot over time- creating a one-of-a-kind insole fitted specifically for your child’s needs. While it may seem costly to buy orthotics for your child while their feet are still growing so quickly, Arch Angels are affordable and typically last 6-12 months and grow with your child. Since each Arch Angels size corresponds to 2 shoe sizes, as your child grows you will see that the insole will get shorter and shorter. Once the insole shrinks to cover just past the end of the insole region it is time to purchase the next larger size.

Whether you choose the Arch Angels or another brand of children’s insoles , giving your children orthotics can go a long way in preventing foot problems later on in life as they become adults.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is one of North America's premiere medical and support brace distributors. Based in Houston Texas, MMAR specializes in orthopedic braces, splints and supports, as well as diabetic footwear and cold therapy units and systems.

Review of the PRAFO 650

Patients suffering from dorsiplantar flexion conditions due to stroke or traumatic brain injury often turn to exercise, muscle strength training or focused stretches to reinstate normal motion. As a part of their rehabilitation AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) braces are used in conjunction with these methods.

The PRAFO 650 (Pressure Relief Ankle Orthosis) is a dorsiplantar flexion brace that can be worn during the day or overnight and is composed of the following components:

Adjustable Leg and Foot Segments

Both the leg and foot segments are adjustable with a simple Philips-head screwdriver to accommodate many different physiologies. The degree to which these can be adjusted allows the PRAFO 650 to be modified and fitted far better than many other AFO braces, resulting in a completely customized feel for each patient. Adjustments can be made to increase or decrease ankle-foot relationship to the calf and the shin- allowing for either a posterior or anterior stop.

Ergonomic Footplate

The ergonomic footplate located under the brace is separate from the adjustable foot segment, allowing the PRAFO brace to increase the inflection arc by up to 10 degrees over time. This inflection arc change can result in a smoother leg swinging motion while walking and running.

Vibram Walking Base

This rigid shoe-like Polyethylene surface is securely fashioned to allow for safe ambulation and rehabilitation as is without requiring additional special footwear.

Aluminum Heel Connector Bar

Because the PRAFO 650 custom-contoured heel bar is made of aluminum it is much more durable than inexpensive braces that merely offer plastic components. This is especially important with heavier patients.

Malleable Anti-Rotation Bar

The aluminum anti-rotation bar is malleable enough to provide comfort while minimizing unwanted rotation of the hip or leg as the foot is held at a 90 degree angle, minimizing pressure on the medial or lateral malleoli.

Kodel Removable Liner

The Kodel liner is the first AFO dorsflexion brace liner of its kind to be completely removable without tools- allowing for an easy transition between use in the hospital and use at home ambulating and doing rehabilitation stretches.

Secure Velcro Straps

Four thick Velcro straps allow the PRAFO 650 to be comfortably secured against the foot and leg during use- prevent loosening during ambulation or rehabilitation.

With all of these adjustable features, the PRAFO 650 is more than just positive heel suspension- it allows for infinite measureable adjustments, making it the number one choice amongst doctors and patients alike for plantar flexion contractures and heel ulceration. Nurses also prefer this brace due to the ease of use and increased patient satisfaction that results. In a wide variety of applications it has increased range of motion, and improved overall stability to preserve or restore mobility in patients. The PRAFO 650 may be more expensive than some other AFO braces but the high quality materials inside and superior design are well worth the price difference.