Extra Depth Footwear keep both the stable and cushioned rocker-sole footwear. Please note with all fittings the type of rocker has to be recommended on individual requirements following assessment and formulation of goals we wish to achieve, ie Stability for the unstable ankle or proanting foot or Cushioning for conditions like plantar faciitis or heel fractures
Either way its best to have your feet individually assessed by trained staff for the best results – Rocker Sole or Not !!
For an appointment please call 5224 2216
To mark this special occasion we are offering free shoe horns with every purchase!
For an appointment please call 5224 2216
Sam Palazzolo
We are also happy to announce the arrival of our new Orthotist, Sam Palazzolo. Sam graduated from Latrobe University earlier this year and is a great addition to the team. Sam enjoys the technical aspect of orthotics and will be managing our public patient case load at Barwon Health. Sam is a keen AFL supporter and is excited about his new role.
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(Post Polio Health International 2011)
Ben recently attended a workshop run by Darren Pereira from NeuroMuscular Orthotics on the Horton Stance Phase Control Knee Joint for Knee Ankle Foot Orthotics (KAFO’s). The knee joint automatically locks and unlocks as the user walks, providing a more fluid gait pattern.
Patients wear KAFO’s for a variety of conditions but most symptoms include weakness or instability around the knee joint. This weakness causes the knee to bend uncontrollably when walking making mobilising difficult and at times unsafe. Traditionally a KAFO prescribed for this would have some kind of lock at the knee joint preventing it from bending and the knee giving way.
The new Horton Knee however, has a mechanism in it that will unlock the knee joint when no weight is going through the leg allowing the knee to bend and then locks when the leg touches the ground providing stability to the knee joint.
Darren Pereira from NeuroMuscular Orthotics on the Horton’s KAFO
It is essential that individuals are carefully assessed for the Horton Knee. The success of this technology relies on correct prescription, fitting and initial and ongoing training to enable the KAFO wearer to reach optimum potential. Most often a Physiotherapist with experience in neuromuscular conditions and rehabilitation will be required for walking re-education. Geelong Orthotics works closely with several Neuro-Muscular Physiotherapists and can refer you if required.
Geelong Orthotics is the only accredited and trained facility in Geelong and the South West region to assess and fit the Horton Stance Phase Control Knee Joint.
Further information on the Horton Stance Phase Control Knee Joint can be found at the following web link.
Mr Ron Bell is an experienced user of the Horton’s and other Stance control KAFO’s. This You Tube clip highlights his walking pattern with and without the KAFO.
]]>We hope to use this area for both our patients and referrers as a resource for material that will be informative and interactive.
We will be posting Latest News events, Product Updates and Material or Links to keep you up to date with the latest information on Geelong Orthtotics and about commonly seen conditions.
We have also integrated Facebook and Twitter.
We look forward to comments and suggestions as we grow and add to this area.
Ben McMurtrie- Director- Geelong Orthotics
]]>Orthotic treatment can include a foot orthosis with a metatarsal dome or bump directly behind the ball of the affected foot. To read more click here
The knee is divided up into three major sections; The medial (inside) compartment, lateral (outside) compartment and the patella (knee cap). The knee is held together with ligaments. The four major ligaments are called Medial Collateral Ligament or MCL, Lateral Collateral Ligament or LCL, Posterior Crucuate Ligament or PCL at the back of the knee, and lastly the Anterior Crucuate Ligament or ACL at the front of the knee.
The meniscus is also an important part of the knee joint, providing padding between the bones and helping them glide over each other when bending.
Several styles of knee orthoses can assist to support, shift pressures or protect from further injury. Successful treatment and bracing should always include a medical assessment and diagnosis to determine the nature of the injury or condition so the correct brace or knee orthosis can be prescribed and fitted. The different styles of knee orthoses can be viewed on our website - http://www.geelongorthotics.com.au/lowerlimbs-knee-braces.aspx
]]>It is always advisable to maintain good flexibility, particularly in the calves. Tight calves transfer forces lower into the ankle and foot complex that can contribute to extra pronation or flattening forces. We often recommend calf stretching as an exercise to assist with reducing the symptoms of heel pain. stretching guidlines
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