Dynamic movement lycra orthosis in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Conventional orthoses and dynamic lycra® orthoses are now being used in the management of symptoms commonly seen in multiple sclerosis (MS). In this article, the role of conventional orthoses and functional electrical stimulation for the lower limbs, affecting the gait cycle in both stance and swing phase, are described and categorised. Upper limb orthoses used for support of the shoulder and positioning of the wrist and hand and their effects on reducing pain and preventing contracture are discussed. Dynamic lycra orthoses can be used to manage abnormal tone and encourage function for people with MS. The compression gives strong sensory stimulation and the lycra panelling influences the positioning of the body to put it at a bio-mechanical advantage for movement. The effectiveness of this approach will be discussed in the context of the current literature on this topic.