Abstract: An ankle-foot orthotic device is designed to closely simulate the natural movement of a lower extremity throughout a proper walking gait cycle. The orthotic device includes upper and lower support members that are pivotally coupled by opposing dorsiflexion assist members. The lower support member includes a rigid, unitary cup for receiving the heel and ankle portions of the lower extremity. The cup is shaped to include a continuous slot that allows for at least 5 degrees of compression upon initial heel strike and thereby promotes a smooth, decelerating heel roll. The lower support member additionally includes a rigid footplate on which is mounted a flexible overlay, the overlay extending beyond the footplate in the medial aspect to promote proper pronation into midstance. A compressible stop is mounted on the lower support member and selectively contacts the upper support member to prevent hyperextension of the lower extremity.

Abstract: An ankle-foot orthotic device is designed to closely simulate the natural movement of a lower extremity throughout a proper walking gait cycle. The orthotic device includes upper and lower support members that are pivotally coupled by opposing dorsiflexion assist members. The lower support member includes a rigid, unitary cup for receiving the heel and ankle portions of the lower extremity. The cup is shaped to include a continuous slot that allows for at least 5 degrees of compression upon initial heel strike and thereby promotes a smooth, decelerating heel roll. The lower support member additionally includes a rigid footplate on which is mounted a flexible overlay, the overlay extending beyond the footplate in the medial aspect to promote proper pronation into midstance. A compressible stop is mounted on the lower support member and selectively contacts the upper support member to prevent hyperextension of the lower extremity.

Abstract: The application is directed to a knee orthosis having a proximal cuff, (2), engageable with the wearer's leg above the knee, a distal cuff, (4), engageable with the wearer's leg below the knee, and a pair of polycentric hinges, (6), joining the cuffs. Both of the hinges are offset in a medial direction relative to the wearer's leg to prevent pressure on the fibula head. Stop means, (110 and 112), limit the pivotal motion of both the hinges relative to the cuffs to approximately 180.degree. measured in the anterior direction to prevent the wearer's knee from canting rearwardly.