A new dynamic triceps-driven orthosis (DTDO): achieving elbow flexion in patients with C5 deficits.

Abstract

This report describes a unique orthosis designed to assist activities of daily living for a patient with severe proximal upper limb weakness caused by traumatic central cord syndrome. The orthosis-the dynamic triceps-driven orthosis (DTDO)-provides elbow flexion using contralateral elbow extension to move a cable threaded across the shoulders and wrist cuffs bilaterally. The device is a simple, inexpensive design that can be reproduced by any orthotist. The DTDO has been used successfully for other patients with severe weakness in C5- and C6-innervated muscles.

• Authors: B D Lawlor, K A Stolp-Smith
• Journal: Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation (Arch Phys Med Rehabil) Vol. 79 Issue 10 Pg. 1309-11 (Oct 1998) ISSN: 0003-9993 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9779691 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Activities of Daily Living
• Elbow Joint (physiopathology)
• Equipment Design
• Humans
• Laminectomy
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Orthotic Devices
• Range of Motion, Articular
• Skiing (injuries)
• Spinal Cord Injuries (etiology, physiopathology, rehabilitation, surgery)
• Spinal Fusion
• Syndrome