Lightweight modular orthosis.

Background and highlights are presented concerning the development of a new orthotic system judged to be "the most outstanding innovation in prosthetics and/or orthotics practice" during the 1986-1989 period. The first Brian Blatchford Prize was awarded at the Sixth World Congress of ISPO held in Kobe, Japan. November 12-17, 1989. The new development selected as most deserving of this award consists of a system utilizing inexpensive, lightweight, modular components which can be quickly assembled with a few hand tools to provide custom-fitted knee-ankle-foot orthoses for persons with paraplegia and quadriplegia. These leg frames support standing and permit the patient to begin receiving the physical and psychological benefits of weightbearing as soon as medically feasible after injury. Later, if desired, specially designed knee-joints, with a variety of possible locking features, can be installed on the existing leg frames at a reasonable cost.