Orthopedic spring hinge systems and methods

A method for treating an anatomical joint dysfunction comprising:

• fixing a first and a second portion of a limb on opposite sides of an anatomical joint with a first external fixator and a second external fixator, such that the first and second external fixators are positioned on either side of the anatomical joint;
• connecting the first and second external fixators with an orthopedic spring hinge disposed therebetween, wherein the orthopedic spring hinge comprises:
• a first base member comprising a first arm;
• a second base member comprising a second arm;
• a flexible spring having a longitudinal axis extending from the first base member to the second base member, wherein the first arm is offset from the longitudinal axis of the spring in a first lateral direction from the longitudinal axis and the second arm is offset from the longitudinal axis of the spring in a second lateral direction from the longitudinal axis opposite the first lateral direction;
• and
• a hinge connector extending from the first arm to the second arm, wherein the hinge connector is configured to pivot with respect to the first arm and the second arm,
• wherein the spring hinge is aligned relative to the anatomical joint to permit rotation of the anatomical joint within a first plane parallel to a longitudinal axis of the hinge connector and to restrict translation and rotation of the anatomical joint within planes orthogonal to the first plane.