Orthotic management of haemophilic arthropathy of the ankle joint

Abstract

Twenty haemophiliacs (34 ankles) who were prescribed ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) or foot orthoses (FOs) were evaluated to confirm whether an orthosis improves the haemophilic arthropathy of the ankle joint. The guideline for the orthosis was the following: shoe modification for enquinus deformity, pain or occasional haemorrhages; elastic ankle supporter with a calcaneal silicone pad for occasional haemorrhages; flexible plastic AFO for frequent haemorrhages and AFO with double uprights for frequent haemorrhages in conjunction with the ankle joint deformity. One year after prescribing the orthosis, the frequency of bleeding in the ankle joint with an ankle supporter was reduced, and the range of motions and X-ray findings of the ankle joint had not deteriorated. Therefore, it was concluded that orthotic management for haemophilic arthropathy in addition to prophylactic therapy might be effective.