Foot Brace

Swede-O Inc has introduced an off-the-shelf drop foot brace, the Step-Smart, with a joint design that absorbs shock at heel strike and then pushes the foot into gentle dorsiflexion. Designed with dynamics to mimic natural foot and ankle movements, the brace may be adjusted to match each person’s shock-absorption requirements and foot/calf angle. The brace comes complete with multiple compression components that allow the practitioner to set the Jacob Joint at one of five different degrees of dorsiflexion assistance based on the requirements for each individual patient. The Step-Smart brace is not only designed for clearance during swing phase, it is also engineered to handle shock absorption at heel strike.

For more information, contact Swede-O Inc, 6459 Ash St, North Branch, MN 55056; (800) 525-9339; www.swedeo.com.

Arch Support

The PolySorb Total Support insole provides arch support and deep-heel cupping for a total support system. It also uses the company’s patented 3-POD cushioning system that absorbs shocks and helps prevent overpronation—the leading cause of common injuries such as plantar fasciitis. The insoles are heat moldable for a customized fit and provide maximum support for greater performance. Other features include a low-friction antimicrobial top cloth to help prevent blisters while controlling odor; a metatarsal arch support to offload pressure from the ball of the foot and help relieve forefoot pain; a forefoot crash pad that provides extra cushioning under the ball-of-foot; and a reverse morton’s extension, which creates a toe-off pad for greater propulsion.

For more information, contact Spenco Medical Corp, PO Box 2501, Waco, TX 76702; (800) 877-3626; www.spenco.com.

Off-the-Shelf Orthosis

Cascade Dafo Inc has introduced JumpStart, an off-the-shelf orthosis. Designed specifically to meet the needs of the low-tone patient who can be difficult to cast and fit properly, JumpStart provides predictable fit and support while offering a low-cost alternative to custom braces. Made from two nesting plastic shells, the flexible inner shell provides comfortable, wraparound control of the foot position, while the outer shell provides additional support and stabilization to the heel. JumpStart comes in mid and high models, with sizes available for patients from newborns to 3-year-olds.

For more information, contact Cascade Dafo Inc, 1360 Sunset Ave, Ferndale, WA 98248; (800) 848-7332; www.cascadedafo.com.

Achilles Tendon Support

The Achilles tendon brace by Pro-Tech Athletics offers comfortable compression to stabilize the tendon and absorb stress. It also features an elastic strap that provides a lift to the heel, preventing excessive stretching. Comfortable and effective, the Achilles Tendon Support helps prevent further damage and enhances the healing process, allowing athletes to get back into competition more quickly.

For more information, contact Pro-Tec Athletics, 2743 152nd Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052; (800) 779-3372; www.injurybegone.com.

Knee Strap

Cho-Pat Inc offers the Dual Action Knee Strap, which provides relief for painful and weak knees. The Dual Action Knee Strap is built on the foundation of Cho-Pat’s Original Knee Strap. The strap alleviates pain and discomfort caused by chondromalacia patella syndrome and patellar tendinitis. By applying pressure on the patellar tendon below the kneecap, the strap tightens the kneecap mechanism, improves patellar tracking, and helps spread pressure over the surface area. The strap slightly elevates the kneecap, relieves harmful pressure to injured or degenerative knees, and allows full mobility.

For more information, contact Cho-Pat Inc, PO Box 293, Hainesport, NJ 08036; (800) 221-1601; www.cho-pat.com.