Calipers

Calipers are viewed as a more traditional type of orthotic device, however they still play a fundamental part in the effective treatment of many conditions. They can be used to support, assist and limit joint movement at the foot, ankle, knees, hips and pelvis. Calipers are normally used on adults but smaller, lightweight calipers can be used on children too.

When would a calliper be considered?

Callipers fit externally from the body's skin so can be considered when the use of a splint that fits closely to the skin is not appropriate. The reasons for this maybe

What conditions and presentation can a caliper be used to treat?

Calipers can be used to treat almost any clinical presentations and conditions, including;

What are callipers normally made of?

Callipers are often made from steel, aluminum or dural metal. The type of metal selected depends on the amount of strength required. Footwear is adapted to accommodate a specialist metal socket which the caliper is secured into place. Leather straps can be added to the caliper or stitched on to footwear to hold the caliper onto the leg and to offer additional support.

What types of calliper are there?

Callipers are custom made so are very versatile and can be designed to support one or both legs. The available types of calipers are;

Below knee calipers (AFO)

Below knee calipers offer support to the foot and ankle joints. Below knee calipers can be designed with double stem support, (metal stem on both sides of the ankle joint) or single stem support (metal stem on the inside or outside of the ankle joint). The below knee caliper is secured to the body with a soft leather strap fastened around the calf. The footwear used would require adaptation with a specialist socket to accommodate the caliper.

Above knee calipers (KAFO)

Above knee calipers provide support to the foot, ankle and the knee joints.The caliper can either have double stem support, (metal stem on both sides of the ankle joint) or single stem support (metal stem on the inside or outside of the ankle joint). Above knee callipers often have a free knee joint or a locking knee joint depending on the condition being treated. The knee area can have additional support with the careful placement of comfortable leather straps. The footwear used would require adaptation with a specialist socket to accommodate the caliper.

Rizzoli calipers

This type of calliper is designed to support a drop foot. It does this by the use of a flexible, lightweight spring loaded metal bar that runs down the back of the leg (externally to the skin) and secures into the rear heel section of the footwear. The footwear in use would require adapting with a specialist socket to accommodate the rizzoli support.

Full set

This type of caliper supports the feet, ankles, knees, hips of both legs and normally has a pelvic support. Full sets are frequently used in the treatment of spinal injuries.

Pediatric calipers

Liverpool orthotics can provide lightweight calipers options when treating children for a range of conditions.

What is the process to receive a caliper?

Firstly, arrange an initial consultant with one of our experienced orthotists at home, or one of our clinics. The orthotist will take a medical and social history as well as carry out a full physical assessment. This assessment will include muscle power tests, range of movement tests and where appropriate observe you walking. It is advised that you bring a number of different types of footwear with you to the initial consultation.

If a caliper is appropriate for you, the orthotist will then take a series of measurements and scans of your legs. A caliper will then be made and suitable fitting appointments arranged to fit the calliper.

To enquire about the range of Caliper solutions that Liverpool orthotics can provide or to book an appointment, contact us today on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk