Orthotic system and method utilizing hydrostatic compression of soft tissue to unload the knee and/or heel up to 100%

A method for reducing loading forces at the knee and tibia by variable circumferential compression of soft tissue of the thigh on the leg of an individual by a knee ankle foot orthotic system which utilizes a compression liner, thigh shell, metal uprights, calf shell, foot platform and compound closure system, the method comprising the steps of:

• applying the orthotic system with the heel of the individual raised at least 1/2 inch above the foot platform of the calf shell;
• tightening the compound closure system around the compression liner and thigh shell around the thigh of the individual;
• applying the weight of the individual to the leg;
• allowing the tissue of the thigh to drop down within the compression liner until further movement is halted by the compound closure system;
• assessing the position of the heel of the individual above the foot platform of the calf shell;
• and
• adjusting the compound closure system to maintain the desired degree of elevation of the heel above the foot platform.

A method for reducing loading forces at the ankle and heel by variable circumferential compression of soft tissue of the calf on the leg of an individual by an ankle foot orthotic system which utilizes a compression liner, ankle foot shell, foot platform and compound closure system, the method comprising the steps of:

• applying the orthotic system with the heel of the individual raised at least 1/2 inch above the foot platform of the ankle foot shell;
• tightening the compound closure system around the compression liner and ankle foot shell around the calf of the individual;
• applying the weight of the individual to the leg;
• allowing the tissue of the calf to drop down within the compression liner until further movement is halted by the compound closure system;
• assessing the position of the heel of the individual above the foot platform of the ankle foot shell;
• and
• adjusting the compound closure system to maintain the desired degree of elevation of the heel above the foot platform.