Lower extremity orthoses and applications for rehabilitation populations.

There are many psychologic effects to trauma and disease. Patients often exhibit a grief reaction and loss of identity in the early stages of recovery. Fear and anxiety about the physical condition and future independence can contribute to feelings of separation and loneliness in patients. Loss of self-confidence and decreased self-esteem follow patients' efforts to overcome permanent decrements in functional abilities. Early intervention with an effective multidisciplinary treatment program can enable patients to perform mobility and self-care tasks. Functional independence and quality-of-life issues are important, and realistic individual goals must be identified and addressed throughout the rehabilitation process. The improvements in overall quality of life, provided by a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program, are as important as saving lives. Orthotic treatment programs are one component of an effective rehabilitation program and should be used to enhance the walking potential and abilities of patients with lower extremity dysfunctions. Ongoing home exercise programs and periodic reevaluation ensure the success of the program. Rehabilitation adds quality to the remaining life of patients by enabling them to return to or develop activities and hobbies as well as maintain higher levels of functional independence. The focus is always on the patient, and the best method to obtain success is an integrated team approach.