This article systematically reviews the available literature to improve our understanding of the physiological basis for orthoses under the kinematic, shock attenuation and neuromotor control paradigms. The propositions made under these three paradigms have not been systematically reviewed collectively, and as such, there is no single-point synthesis of this clinically relevant body of evidence and somewhat disparate fi ndings. Our comprehensive search strategy yielded 22 papers. Under each paradigm, the role of orthoses with different design features including combinations of posting, moulding and density was analysed. Where possible, data have been pooled to provide an increased level of confi dence in fi ndings. The main fi ndings in the kinematic paradigm were that posted non-moulded orthoses systematically reduced peak rearfoot eversion (2.12° (95% CI 0.72 to 3.53)) and tibial internal rotation (1.33° (0.12 to 2.53)) in non-injured cohorts. In the shock attenuation paradigm, it was found that non-posted moulded and posted moulded orthoses produced large reductions in loading rate and vertical impact force when compared with a control and to a posted non-moulded orthosis. The neuromotor control paradigm seems to be the least conclusive in its outcome. Based on our review, this paper concludes with rudimentary guidelines for the prescription of orthosis, that sports medicine practitioners may use in their clinical decision-making process. The need for further research focusing on the role of injury, particularly in neuromotor control modifi cation and long-term adaptation to orthoses, was highlighted.

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This study aimed to examine ownership and usage frequencies of electrotherapeutic modalities typically found in private physiotherapy practices in Brisbane. The survey included 73 practices, representing 70 per cent of the selected sample. Results revealed that ultrasound units were used more "frequently" than any other modality. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and interferential units were also used extensively. Short-wave diathermy units were found in more clinics than any other heating modality. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation was the only modality to demonstrate a significant difference [p< 0:05) in "Frequent" usage between practitioners aged under 31 and those 31 and older. Overall, the majority of respondents (77.5 per cent) trained at the University of Queensland, a fact which may have influenced the identified trends.