Bracing

The family can draw from a clinical team comprised of a: Board Certified Physical Medical and Rehabilitation Physician (Physiatrist), Registered Pediatric Physical Therapist, Certified Orthotist. We provide ongoing education and training for parents and children in the care of the brace. Our multidisciplinary team of pediatric professionals are available, working in concert with a child's referring physician(s) to evaluate a child's bracing needs. Follow up appointments are conducted to ensure proper use and fit. As the child develops our team can evaluate if the brace is continuing to appropriately assist with a child's ability to function. Treatment will be based on our expert evaluation of your child's condition and the likelihood for a good outcome. If bracing and physical therapy are the prescribed option we can offer a comprehensive functional plan.

We evaluate and treat a variety of children. Some of the more common problems we see are children with:

Cerebral Palsy: Leg Orthotics may help a child's walking and standing from an early age. An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) or an MAFO (molded ankle-foot orthosis) fits in a shoe. The brace may serve one or more functions, including stretching the tight Achilles tendon and calf muscles, substituting for a weak muscle or providing a stable base of support for children who are just starting to stand. It supports the ankle and foot and reaches just below the knee.

Acquired deformities of the foot and ankle: Acquired deformities may have several causes: Trauma (injury) to the growth plate, Trauma (injury) to joint surfaces of joints, fracture malunions, neuromuscular deformities (muscular dystrophies, Charcot-Marie Tooth disease, tethered cord, spasticity infection or tumors)

Spasticity and Tone: Treating the lower extremity problems that may occur secondary to cerebral palsy, a stroke or a traumatic brain injury.

Scoliosis: The brace we use to control a scoliosis curve of the spine is called a TLSO Brace (thoracolumbar sacral orthosis). There are many different types and brands of TLSO braces. We work with your orthopedic surgeon or physiatrist regarding the type that is most appropriate. The recommended wearing time for your brace is also coordinated with you surgeon. Brace wearing starts gradually and within two to three weeks, you should be at your prescribed brace-wearing routine.

Clubfoot: It is critical to evaluate for the cause so a tailored approach the child's treatment to minimize the likelihood that deformities will remain or reoccur. We are keenly aware that the treatment of clubfoot must also change with the age of the child and the history of past treatment. If surgery occurs surgery, our casting team may create a custom-made cast or brace for your child. The brace, called a thermoplastic brace, will allow room for your child's foot to grow and will help achieve an optimal result.

Toe Walking: Children may walk on their toes for a variety of reasons. Specific exercise and stretching programs are available for those who need help learning to walk using a heel-toe pattern. Children who require bracing in conjunction with therapy are afforded both the orthosis along with expert physical therapy.

Our Orthotics & Prosthetics Services at Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital can fabricate a customized brace for your child. Our Certified Orthotist, Lisa Cherry has 26 years experience working with both adult and pediatric patients. Lisa has experience in all style and types of bracing. Lisa has worked closely with Physicians and Physical Therapists in the clinical environment to ensure that the proper prescription is filled and that the brace is functional along with a proper fit. We also like to ensure that the turn around time is quick, usually within a two week period.

Please note the Orthotics Clinic is located at Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital and parents will be directed over to the hospital once the need for a brace has been established. Our specialized clinicians will evaluate your child first. We work closely with your referring pediatrician, orthopedic surgeon, physiatrist or neurologist to determine the best approach for your child.

Location for Bracing Evaluation

Locations for Physical Therapy Intervention