Dear List,I have a gentleman who would like to try a winging scapula orthosis. He has severed his nerve and will not being regaining any strength. At this point any elevation/abduction of the arm results in winging. He is a very large man – 6’3″ 260+#’s and very strong. I tried to hold the scapula manually as he elevated and it still winged when humerus was above the level of the shoulder. I explained to him that this is a VERY difficult thing to control and there is a significant possibility of the device not functioning as well as hoped – he would like to go ahead anyway.
I am looking for material and design suggestions for this device. I was planning on having a metal strut/horseshoe over the shoulder and connected to a pectoral pad and a scapular pad. I was also considering another metal strut under the axilla connecting the 2 pads for added support. Basically he would have to put his arm through the struts and then have a soft contralateral axillary strap to hold it in place. I think I will have to use some type of tubing (square or round) – Does anyone have any suggestions about size etc? A laminated device would be optimal but since I can’t adjust after the fact I feel more comfortable with metal.
If anyone has any design suggestions or photos It would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance for all the advice!cheryl
Cheryl Lewis BSc(HK), CO(c)
Certified Orthotist
Owner, CK Ortho Inc
Ph 519-436-9670
