Addison Littleton - Student Blog 6/9/26

As we wrapped up Orthotic Management of the Upper Limb, our class completed several fabrication projects that challenged us to apply both clinical reasoning and hands-on technical skills. One of the highlights was fabricating custom wrist-hand orthoses for our classmates, followed by the construction of a custom elbow extension orthosis. These projects reinforced the importance of proper evaluation, patient positioning, material selection, and fabrication techniques while giving us valuable experience translating classroom concepts into functional devices.

Now, our cohort has transitioned into Orthotic Management of the Lower Limb I. We recently completed comprehensive lower limb evaluations, including non-weight-bearing, static weight-bearing, and dynamic weight-bearing assessments. These evaluations allowed us to better understand how foot structure and alignment influence movement and overall function. After gathering our assessment findings, we took foam box impressions and began learning the modification process used to create custom foot orthoses.

One of the most rewarding parts of this course has been seeing how small modifications can have a significant impact on the function of an orthotic device. Through plaster model modifications, we are learning how to address various biomechanical concerns and create orthoses tailored to an individual's needs.

Currently, we are fabricating UCBL orthoses. As we move further into lower limb orthotics, we are excited to continue building on the foundation established during our first semester and gain a deeper understanding of how orthotic interventions can improve mobility and quality of life for our future patients.

-Teal Team 12