Ucbl Orthosis
UCBL Foot Orthosis
By: Alishah Gillani BSc. KIN, Dip. Ped, C.K., C PED (C)
The University of California Biomechanics Laboratory (UCBL) orthosis is a specific custom-molded orthosis that closely embraces the heel and midfoot to optimize medio-lateral stability (1).
It was named after the laboratory where it was researched and developed in 1967 (2). As we are all aware, foot orthoses are fabricated for individuals who have abnormal joint alignment in the foot, causing inappropriate motion during stance and gait. Abnormal mechanics may lead to pain and increased stress in the joints of the foot, leg and even the back.
The UCBL foot orthosis is used to stabilize a flexible foot deformity often know as the ‘flexible pes planovalgus foot’. The UCBL is a closely fit orthotic device that completely encircles the heel in a deep heel cup, controling the hindfoot in a neutral vertical position. It is based on the belief that the calcaneus is the fundamental structure for subtalar joint funtion. The orthosis realigns the calcaneus, acting to improve the angle of pull of the achilles tendon, and provide a more stable base for the articular surfaces of the talus, navicular, and cuboids (5).
The UCBL differs from the biomechanical foot orthosis in it 's secure rear foot fit which cradles the medial column and also controls the entire rearfoot
Following a thorough biomechanical assessment of stance and gait, As with any other custom orthosis, the UCBL begins with the patients limb casted in a subtalar neutral position to provide a negative mold and create a positive mold of the foot ,. Once the positive model is appropriately modified, thermoplastic material is heat molded, cooled, and trimmed to form the UCBL orthosis.
Standard Structure:
The UCBL is made out of a rigid material, usually a plastic that is pressed on to the cast. The insert usually ends just proximal to the toes by the ball of the foot. This allows for natural propulsion at the toes
By: Alishah Gillani BSc. KIN, Dip. Ped, C.K., C PED (C)
The University of California Biomechanics Laboratory (UCBL) orthosis is a specific custom-molded orthosis that closely embraces the heel and midfoot to optimize medio-lateral stability (1).
It was named after the laboratory where it was researched and developed in 1967 (2). As we are all aware, foot orthoses are fabricated for individuals who have abnormal joint alignment in the foot, causing inappropriate motion during stance and gait. Abnormal mechanics may lead to pain and increased stress in the joints of the foot, leg and even the back.
The UCBL foot orthosis is used to stabilize a flexible foot deformity often know as the ‘flexible pes planovalgus foot’. The UCBL is a closely fit orthotic device that completely encircles the heel in a deep heel cup, controling the hindfoot in a neutral vertical position. It is based on the belief that the calcaneus is the fundamental structure for subtalar joint funtion. The orthosis realigns the calcaneus, acting to improve the angle of pull of the achilles tendon, and provide a more stable base for the articular surfaces of the talus, navicular, and cuboids (5).
The UCBL differs from the biomechanical foot orthosis in it 's secure rear foot fit which cradles the medial column and also controls the entire rearfoot
Following a thorough biomechanical assessment of stance and gait, As with any other custom orthosis, the UCBL begins with the patients limb casted in a subtalar neutral position to provide a negative mold and create a positive mold of the foot ,. Once the positive model is appropriately modified, thermoplastic material is heat molded, cooled, and trimmed to form the UCBL orthosis.
Standard Structure:
The UCBL is made out of a rigid material, usually a plastic that is pressed on to the cast. The insert usually ends just proximal to the toes by the ball of the foot. This allows for natural propulsion at the toes
References: 1. Anandam, P. (2011) UCBL Foot Orthosis [Image]. In: Launceston Orthotic Service. Retrieved from http://www.launceston-orthotic-service.com.au/orthotic-device/foot-and-ankle-orthotic/ucbl-foot-orthosis 2. ADVANCED FOOT & ANKLE CENTER (2010) UCBL SHOE INSERT. Retrieved from http://www.advancedfoottexas.com/2010/10/ucbl-shoe-insert/ 3. DECKER, W and ALBERT, S. (2002 Contemporary Pedorthics. Seattle: Elton-Wolf Publishing. Pg.279. 4. THE O&P EDGE (2009) Treating Pediatric Clubfoot and Pes Planus. Retrieved from http://www.oandp.com/articles/2009-05_07.asp 5. Prosthet Orthot Int 1998 Apr;22(1):25-34. Pg. 165 Member Profile” After graduating from the University of Waterloo, with a degree in Kinesiology, Alishah really began her path? to pedorthics. She enrolled in the Western Diploma in Pedorthics and spent the summers training at Walking Mobility Clinics. Each year, I learnt more and more about the industry. Working with people can be pretty challenging, but her time spent in clinical environments, shadowing chiropractors, physiotherapists and fellow pedorthists has really enforced her “people-person” qualities. It takes a lot of experience and patience. … is one of the best and most experienced in the pedorthic profession in Canada, so I’m very fortunate to have him involved in my development as a pedorthists. I sstill learn from him every chance I get.