Remodeling

Remodeling means to reshape or reconstruct. An orthodontist remodels ones mouth when braces are used to realign teeth. The Greek prefix "Ortho" means to straighten. Braces or orthoses by definition should correct any existing deformity. Remodeling orthotic support systems for CMT are available. DynamicBracingSolutions™ has created a systematic approach that will address the fixed or rigid foot and ankle in addition to knee deformities. This process can be used as a conservative treatment plan in place of surgery. In cases where surgery has been performed and problems persist, remodeling can still be effective.

Remodeling of what was once considered "fixed" deformities of the foot and ankle complex, is now possible. The primary medical treatment plan has been surgical intervention for foot deformities, the use of accommodative orthoses or both. A typical surgical procedure that has been performed for many years is the triple arthrodesis. This consists of altering the structure and fusing the three major bones of the ankle complex. The intended purpose is to restore the normal anatomy of the foot and to prevent further deformity. Studies have shown that fusions have not been successful in CMT. One study recommended the procedure be used only as a salvage procedure. The mechanical stresses of ambulation are too great on the fusions. In time, nearly all fusions break down, which can compromise future medical treatment plans. Other joints and the body as a whole are also affected by such procedures. Balance and security issues arise as a result. The original intent to prevent deformity can actually increase deformity!

Remodeling has been utilized in certain orthotic applications for decades and is still in practice today. Fracture braces realign certain fractures and hold bones in position until the fracture is healed. In fact, even the healing process of the bone is called remodeling. Scoliosis bracing of the spine applies triplanar corrective forces for extended periods of time for the purpose of remodeling the curve. The term triplanar refers to the three major planes of motion that comprise human movement. Ironically, this concept has not been applied to all orthotic systems. Most orthoses for the lower extremity are one-dimensional devices. They control forces in one plane only. Over time this type of orthosis becomes the cause of deformities in the remaining planes of motion. Human motion is three-dimensional. The doctor, the Physical Therapist or the Orthotist, cannot ignore this fact; the complex solutions for efficient and secure mobility must be solved three-dimensionally.

Surgery in itself presents complications. Any surgical procedure is serious and there is the potential for complications. In addition to the extended recovery time and rehabilitation, there are psychological issues involving inactivity, anxiety and family pressures. If orthotic intervention is to be used in place of surgery, the support system must address present and future deformities. Although the time frame varies, deformities in most pathologies are predictable. The use of a conventional or one-dimensional orthoses will only accommodate existing deformity; in addition, they are static rather than dynamic. The use of such devices may ultimately lead to surgery or the termination of ambulation.

While many deformities are predictable, they are also preventable. In the case of fixed or rigid deformities, the use of our Remodeling orthotic support systems is designed to decrease deformity over an extended period of time. This allows the individual to remain active during the treatment. In the case of surgery, the best alignment is obtained within the timeframe of the procedure without the possibility of improvement. Since the remodeling process is ongoing, the alignment potential is more favorable. As in any situation, prevention is better than correction after the fact. Remodeling is most effective when the joint structures and tissues are supple and not fixed or rigid; however, remodeling also works in these cases as well.

The process requires very skilled practitioners along with committed clients to be successful. As in the case of the orthodontist, follow-up visits would be required to maintain constant corrective pressures as the fixed deformities slowly give way. As alignment improves, so does balance, weight distribution on the foot and reduction of the deforming forces. Each degree of improvement makes a difference. Remodeling is a corrective process that takes time. In some cases, only a few months are required while other cases take longer depending on complexities. Very positive outcomes have been obtained utilizing this technique.

The Remodeling process requires advanced skills and techniques that maintain consistent triplanar corrective forces in both stance phase and swing phase of the gait cycle. The corrective forces are applied at all times while the remodeling device is worn. The remodeling process works continuously while sitting, walking or lying down. The Remodeling device is functionally utilized like any other AFO for walking. As the deformities decrease, there will be a corresponding increase in balance, security and function.

Orthotic support systems that incorporate remodeling techniques are temporary. The objective is to maximize potential. As the foot and ankle become more supple, increased corrective forces can be applied. The first orthosis can be adjusted as long as the triplanar control is maintained. It would be counterproductive to continue beyond this point as it would limit further improvements and possibly cause regression. Eventually, a new orthosis would have to be fabricated reflecting the positive changes and allow for the continuation of corrective forces and continued progress.

Remodeling outcomes have been very encouraging. It is a positive approach with improvement as a goal rather than the accommodation of an existing problem. The remodeling orthosis is dynamic as opposed to static. Users have experienced many benefits. For some it has prevented unwanted surgeries and fusions. For others it has restored the ability to walk more efficiently and enjoy past activities, such as golf and dancing. It has improved everyone's balance and security. There are fewer problems reported than with conventional orthoses such as reduced pressures on bony prominences. The potential to enjoy a more active lifestyle is possible through determination and the dedication to finding DynamicBracingSolutions™.

About Company

DynamicBracingSolutions™ is The National Network of Clinicians dedicated to a 21st Century approach to HOLISTIC bracing for neuromuscular disorders.


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"The challenge, was it worth it? Yes! Definitely worth it. There are times that I can sort of march, that I was never able to do before. I can go longer distances when I walk my dog and I don't feel like my knee is going to buckle." -- M.E. MD


"The challenge was worth every bit, I mean, it just gets you all excited about (it) and you want to go do it again. That's what life's about, it's challenges and pushing yourself to another goal." -- E.W. All American Over Sixty TriAthlete

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