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PANat
2009,
revised 02/2015, version 2017
43
Leg & Foot air splint for standing (specially designed for patients with Multiple
Sclerosis)
Never walk forward or backwards in this air splint, side stepping only is permitted.
Aims of use:
To maintain muscle length and elasticity and reduce the risk of adaptive soft tissue changes in the
lower limbs.
To promote standing and improve balance.
To support and stabilise the legs in standing (weight bearing and limb loading).
To assist in trunk alignment and to maintain both heels on the floor in standing.
To enable the following activities: squats, weight transfer from side to side, single leg stance and
side stepping.
Preparation
Starting position: in sitting with a back support for the client if necessary.
In sitting:
Ensure symmetrical postural alignment.
Apply a comfortable pressure with your hands to mobilise the joints and soft tissues of the leg. The
movements are slow and rhythmical.
Application
Put the open air splint on over the
shoe (soft sole with a broad low heel)
and covered leg (cotton sleeve or thin
trouser leg).
Ensure the heel is firmly embedded in
the point of the air splint.
Close the zip.
Gather the excess fabric into your
hands to maintain the ankle and foot
in a neutral position.
This may be used as a resting air
splint.
The air splint may be applied to one
or both legs depending on the client’s
presenting problems and underlying
pathology.
Inflate.
As the air fills the air splint,
slowly release your grasp on the
excess fabric around the ankle
joint. This allows the foot to
maintain the correct alignment in
the air splint.
