Modifications and Test Braces
Plaster of paris positive molds are made from the casting. Molds are carefully
corrected for overall fit, alignment, comfort, balance, and function. We use tri- planar corrections. Additionally, angles are measured to correct for balance and
stability. From these molds, we initially fabricate floor reaction test braces out of
advanced thermoplastic materials. What we call a test brace anyone else would
call a “permanent thermoplastic custom floor reaction AFO”. The test braces are
fabricated and fit on the second day of your office visit. With the test braces we
evaluate your overall fit, comfort, alignment, corrections, balance, stability, and
initial gait. Once the test braces are fit, notations are made on them along with a
video of the fit. The test braces are poured with plaster in order to make a new
set of leg molds. With the new molds, we modify them for further corrections.
Finally, we prepare the molds for the final carbon fiber Helios®, which will
incorporate a 7-stage Helios® framework.