Dynamic Lycra pressure orthoses (or garments) have been used in recent years as a treatment modality for children with motor impairment, namely cerebral palsy. Improving function is the ultimate goal of prescribing such garments, but there are other important beneficial effects, such as improving proximal stability to help posture and function. This article attempts to explain, in view of current knowledge, how and why dynamic Lycra pressure garments are used and their benefits to children who wear them, providing an outline of current theories behind their function. Two case reports are detailed and some areas for further research are identified.
In this study a computerised system was used which continuously measured air pressure, interface pressure and pressure-time cycle characteristics of an alternating pressure air cushion (APAC), and calculated the time the interface pressure remained below three chosen thresholds of 20,40 and 60mm Hg. Ten healthy volunteers were used to evaluate the pressure relieving characteristics of four APACs. Results indicated significant differences between products when the threshold periods were analysed, showing some devices were not capable of relieving interface pressures below 20mm Hg. Though deflation pressure decreased to nearer zero, interface pressure did not follow suit.
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