Custom Ankle Braces

Greetings everyone.

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We are continuing our highlight on custom ankle braces in this newsletter. We previously discussed various reasons someone would need custom braces; dropfoot, ankle arthritis, Charcot foot, etc (see previous edition). If it sounds like you can benefit from custom ankle bracing like hundreds of people already are, then here is what you can do. Schedule an appointment for a quick and simple casting process to place your order. The casting process is a short one that is as simple as putting on a sock, which is also exactly how it is performed.

There are various different styles to fit everyone and their different lifestyles. Firm, flexible, sporty, non-weighted, and standard are some just to name a few. No matter which Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO) brace works best for you, the bottom line is that you are receiving support that will make mobility an easier task. Restricted medial collapse, increased mobility and range of motion, all while reducing pain make custom braces a favorite among patients.

Upon receipt your health care provider will instruct you in proper use of you custom brace to maximize effectiveness. Proper wear and care, as well as good hygiene will help you help the brace work as efficiently as intended.

One frequently asked question is: Can I afford to get custom ankle braces? Well there is good news. In most cases, custom braces are covered through Medicare and other insurance providers. As always, check with your insurance provider for the coverage details of your specific plan to avoid confusion and be clear about your coverage.

Foot Care Aware

In recognition of American Diabetes Month, during the months of November and December, the American Diabetes Association, the Illinois Department of Human Services Diabetes Control Program and the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association will sponsor the "Foot Care Aware" program. The "Foot Care Aware" program is a free foot-screening program for people with diabetes to help diagnose nerve damage and reduce their risk of lower extremity amputations.

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Annual Diabetes Campaign

The Illinois Podiatric Medical Association Kicks Off Annual Diabetes Campaign

Chicago, IL. - This November and December, the lllinois Podiatric Medical Association, the American Diabetes Association, and the lllinois Department of Human Services Diabetes Control Program will once again launch its "Foot Care Aware" program. The "Foot Care Aware" program is a free foot-screening program for people with diabetes to help diagnose nerve damage and reduce their risk of lower extremity amputations.

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Congenital Dislocated Hip

Congenital dislocated hip is an abnormality that is seen at birth. The role that podiatrists play in pediatrics is remarkable. With the first sign of stance or walking abnormality, a parent's concern will be great enough to rush their child off to the doctor. We will learn about the many tools and techniques, which cater to the pediatric patient, that allow a congenital dislocated hip to be diagnosed and treated.

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MicroVas Vascular Treatment System

Welcome Back!

Hey everybody!

Welcome back to this week's discussion on foot facts -what you need to know.
It's been a while, but I'll get you up to speed on the 411!

MicroVas Vascular Treatment System

In October of 2006, footDrHorsley began using a remarkable treatment device for wounds and poor circulation called the MicroVas Vascular Treatment System (MicroVas). MicroVas is an electrical stimulation device used to increase circulation to upper and lower extremities or speed up wound healing process.

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Hallux Limitus

Defintion

Hallux limitus describes a condition in which there is limitation of motion of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint in the sagittal plane. Hallux limitus is the inability of the hallux to dorsiflex at the 1st MPJ. This limited range of motion results in jamming of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint (1st MPJ). Over time, repetitive jamming will contribute to arthritis of the 1st MPJ. The most characteristic sign of hallux limitus is a bump (exostosis) on top of the head of the 1st metatarsal. In fact, many doctors also refer to hallux limitus as a dorsal bunion.

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Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO) Ankle Supports

Greetings once again from everyone at footDrHorsley.

This is the beginning of a new series centered around custom Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO) ankle supports. Custom supports are designed to prevent the ankle from rolling when it is unable to support itself. AFO's help individuals with, but not limited to these problems:

Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO) Ankle Supports
  • Ankle arthritis or DJD (Degenerative Joint Disease)
  • Ankle, subtalar or midtarsal trauma
  • Charcot foot
  • Chronic Achilles tendonitis
  • Extra support for the obese patient
  • Increased stability for varum or valgum at the knee
  • Linsfrancs Injury
  • Paralytic equinus or drop foot
  • PTTD (Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction)
  • Severe pronation or Pes planus
  • Sports injuries, such as chronic ankle sprains
  • Talocalcaneal vargus or valgus
  • Tibialis tendonitis (posterior of anterior)

AFO supports provide stability, reduce swelling on the ankle, and help to improve gait movement. Their reinforced leather structure can be made rigid or flexible depending upon each patients specific needs. One of the favorite uses among patients is the alternative to surgery the AFO provides. For those of you that may want surgery to be used as the last option, the custom AFO serves as an excellent temporary fix.

The process of getting an AFO begins with a quick-dry cast which will be used to make your custom brace. There are two different AFO braces recommended through footdrhorsley: the Arizona Brace and the RYBO brace. Both of these companies assemble their products right here in America so it allows for a fast turnaround on orders. Both offer various braces ranging in height, width, color, and fastening.

Check the eShop at footDrHorsley soon for these products