Given the heterogeneity of many patient populations for whom ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are indicated, it’s not surprising that AFO experts are at the forefront of the current trend favoring customization of devices to meet individual patient needs. Research presented in May at the 2017 International Society of Prosthetics & Orthotics (ISPO) World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, illustrated some of the many ways AFO stiffness and alignment can be optimized in the interest of patient-centric care.

Less may be more when it comes to knee bracing in some patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and patellofemoral pain (PFP), according to studies of soft knee braces presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.

A scientific approach to insole design can help reduce plantar pressures associated with diabetic footwear, in turn reducing the risk of plantar ulcerations, according to research presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.

Studies presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, added to knee experts’ understanding of the mechanisms underlying distal interventions to reduce pain and joint loading in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Computer modeling is facilitating advances in insole development for patients with diabetic neuropathy and rheumatoid arthritis, according to data presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.