COF Fitting & Adjustment Techniques 2

Question 1

When fitting a prefabricated AFO, which measurement is most critical to ensure proper fit at the ankle?

Accepted Answer

Malleolar width and ankle circumference

Answer

Malleolar width and ankle circumference determine whether the AFO will accommodate bony prominences and prevent pressure sores.

Question 2

A patient with a custom KAFO reports lateral knee pain after one week of use. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Lateral knee joint aligned too distal

Answer

A lateral knee joint positioned too distal creates a valgus moment arm that concentrates pressure on the lateral condyle.

Question 3

The 'three-point pressure system' in orthotic fitting primarily serves to:

Accepted Answer

Correct or accommodate deformity through opposing forces

Answer

A three-point pressure system applies a primary corrective force and two counter-forces to achieve controlled alignment.

Question 4

When adjusting a thermoplastic AFO for a patient with increased spasticity, the fitter should:

Accepted Answer

Heat and reform the ankle section to increase dorsiflexion assistance

Answer

Reforming the thermoplastic at the ankle can adjust the angle of set to better manage plantar flexion tone in a spastic limb.

Question 5

A patient using a wrist-hand orthosis (WHO) complains of numbness in digits 4 and 5. The fitter should first check:

Accepted Answer

Pressure over the hypothenar eminence and ulnar styloid

Answer

Ulnar nerve compression at the hypothenar eminence or ulnar styloid commonly produces numbness in the ring and little fingers.

(COF) Certified Orthotic Fitter Practice Test