Abstract: This invention relates to a sole for an orthopaedic cast having an upper and a lower surface and first, second and third regions broadly corresponding respectively to the heel, arch of the foot and ball of the foot of a wearer, characterized in that the lower surface of the third region is provided with two crossed oblique recesses. Preferably the shape of the sole, and location of the first and second recesses are such that the sole is substantially congruent with its mirror image. The sole is attached to an orthopaedic cast by a source of, inter alia, a strap which passes through one oblique recess, and which is fastened over the top of the cast. In this way, the strap extends from a posterior region of the ball of the wearer's foot on the side corresponding to the small toe to an anterior region thereof on the side corresponding to the big toe.

Abstract: A thermoplastic composition, especially for use as an orthopedic splinting or casting material comprises a crosslinked polymeric component and a filler. The crosslinked polymeric component comprises a polycaprolactone, such as poly(epsilon)caprolactone, and a thermoplastic rubber in a ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1.5:1 by weight. Styrene-butadiene-styrene and styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymers are particularly suitable thermoplastic rubbers.Crosslinking may be carried out using an organic peroxide such as benzoyl peroxide. The filler is preferably a mixture of talc and silica.