CFO Risk Assessment & Mitigation 3

Question 1

A patient with severe osteoporosis is being fitted with a TLSO. What is the primary structural risk the fitter must mitigate?

Accepted Answer

Pathological fracture from device pressure

Answer

In severe osteoporosis, the weakened bone structure can sustain a pathological fracture if the orthosis applies excessive localized load.

Question 2

Which of the following is the most appropriate strategy to mitigate the risk of contact dermatitis from an orthotic liner?

Accepted Answer

Perform a material sensitivity review before fabrication

Answer

Reviewing the patient's known material sensitivities or allergies before fabrication prevents the use of allergenic components.

Question 3

During gait analysis, a patient using a knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) demonstrates excessive lateral trunk lean. What risk does this compensatory pattern signal?

Accepted Answer

Hip abductor weakness leading to falls

Answer

A Trendelenburg-type lean during gait indicates hip abductor weakness, which increases fall risk and energy expenditure.

Question 4

What is the most significant risk of over-correcting a flexible flatfoot deformity in an adult patient with a rigid foot orthosis?

Accepted Answer

Lateral column overload and stress fracture

Answer

Excessive medial arch support shifts load to the lateral column, potentially causing stress fractures of the fourth and fifth metatarsals.

Question 5

Which risk is most associated with prescribing a solid ankle AFO for a patient with significant spasticity and strong extensor synergy?

Accepted Answer

Increased knee hyperextension during stance

Answer

A solid AFO holding the ankle at 90° can lever the knee into hyperextension in patients with strong extensor spasticity during loading response.

(CFO) Certified Fitter Orthotics Practice Test

(CFO) Certified Fitter Orthotics Practice Test

CFO Risk Assessment & Mitigation 3