Abstract: A simulated limb for training an evaluator to assess a resistive characteristic of an animal. The limb includes a first member simulating a first portion of the animal, and a second member simulating a second portion of the animal rotatably connected to the first member. The limb also includes a resistance element having a variable resistance that varies an amount of torque required to rotate the second member relative to the first member. A method for training an evaluator to assess a resistive characteristic using a simulated limb includes adjusting the resistance of the resistance element over a range of rotation thereby providing a resistance profile for the simulated limb mimicking the resistive characteristic of the animal. A method for simulating a resistive characteristic of an animal using a simulated limb includes applying a resistance profile to the simulated limb mimicking spasticity or muscle strength over a range of rotation.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining a dorsiflexion angle of a surgical patient's foot relative to the corresponding leg during tendon surgery. The apparatus includes a leg member having a first support adapted for engaging at least one of a lateral malleolus and a medial malleolus of the patient, and a second support opposing the first support adapted for engaging another of the lateral malleolus and the medial malleolus of the patient. The apparatus further includes a foot member rotatably connected to the leg member for selectively rotating the foot member relative to the leg member about an axis defined by the first support and the second support of the leg member. The foot member has a metatarsal support adapted for engaging a predetermined point on at least one preselected metatarsal bone of the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining a dorsiflexion angle of a surgical patient's foot relative to the corresponding leg during tendon surgery. The apparatus includes a leg member having a first support adapted for engaging at least one of a lateral malleolus and a medial malleolus of the patient, and a second support opposing the first support adapted for engaging another of the lateral malleolus and the medial malleolus of the patient. The apparatus further includes a foot member rotatably connected to the leg member for selectively rotating the foot member relative to the leg member about an axis defined by the first support and the second support of the leg member. The foot member has a metatarsal support adapted for engaging a predetermined point on at least one preselected metatarsal bone of the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying a tensile force to a band of fibrous tissue of a patient. The apparatus includes a base for supporting the apparatus against a patient and a tensioning element moveably mounted on the base. The tensioning element is adapted for connection to a first end of the band of fibrous tissue of the patient so that movement of the element relative to the base moves the first end of the band relative to a second end of the band opposite the first end thereby to stretch the band and develop a tensile force in it. The tensile force developed in the band of fibrous tissue is a function of the movement of the tensioning element relative to the base.