546 chapter 58
KNEE HINGES
Braces with locking knee hinges permit the child to bend her knees for sitting or
squatting.
Non-bending
knees are
satisfactory
for most
children.
The child
can sit with
her leg
straight.
NON-HINGED
BRACE
However, in some communities,
a child may ‘fit in’ better
if he can squat.
However, hinged braces have
disadvantages: they are more
costly and take longer to
make. A child outgrows
them quickly—unless
they are adjustable.
So use your judgment.
HINGED
BRACE
The knee
hinge locks
for walking
and unlocks
for sitting or
squatting.
Hinges on a round-rod brace
thin
metal
rod
Child pulls up tubes
to bend knee.
tubes
for
locking
knee
thin
metal
tube
A BETTER HINGE
metal tube that
fits rod
Cut rod ends
to form
smooth fit.
pin
Tube fits closely
over hinge.
A simpler hinge such as the ones above for a round rod can also be used on a flat rod.
A hinge for flat metal bar
OPEN
squared metal ring
side pieces
welded or
riveted
The ring
must fit
closely to
keep the
joint firm.
LOCKED
Head of pin
sticks out
so ring
cannot slip
farther down.
BRACES THAT FOLLOW THE SHAPE OF THE LEG
Flat metal bar can be bent to fit the shape of the leg more closely.
This is not always necessary but if done well the brace will fit
better—especially when the bar is used with molded plastic.
Instructions for bending and fitting the rod are on p. 557.
Bend
around
knee.
ADJUSTABLE BRACES
As the child grows, a brace made like this can be lengthened.
Teach family members how to do this.
Disabled village Children
screws