05_061209821_0135_1_2
Orthosis - Thigh Knee Ankle - Custom Made

Line Item Description

This NDIS support item falls under the Capital budget and is specifically for the Rental of Assistive Technology. It covers the rental of a Custom Made Thigh Knee Ankle Orthosis (TKAO), corresponding to Registration Group 0135 (Prostheses and Orthoses).

A Custom Made Thigh Knee Ankle Orthosis is a highly specialised and extensive assistive technology device that spans the entire leg, providing comprehensive support and alignment from the thigh down to the ankle. Unlike smaller braces, the TKAO is custom-fabricated based on a precise mould or scan of the participant's leg, ensuring an exact fit necessary for such a large, weight-bearing device.

The TKAO is typically prescribed for participants with severe or complex neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions that affect the entire lower limb, such as:

Significant muscle weakness or paralysis (e.g., secondary to spinal cord injury, polio, or cerebral palsy) where the person cannot safely support their own weight or control their knee/ankle movement.

Profound instability or complex joint deformities requiring rigid control of the hip, knee, and ankle joints simultaneously.

Facilitating standing and walking (ambulation) by locking or controlling the joints to prevent collapse during movement.

The provision of a TKAO on a rental basis is used for:

Extended Assessment and Trial: Allowing for a thorough evaluation period before committing to the high cost of purchasing a permanent custom device.

Transitional Use: Providing essential support during a period of rehabilitation where the participant’s functional needs or body size (e.g., children who are growing rapidly) are expected to change.

Acute Needs: Offering immediate high-level, customised support following a significant medical event or surgery where the full extent of recovery is unknown.

This high-value, high-support item ensures that participants with the most significant physical disability can access the necessary custom-made device for safe standing, mobility, and participation in daily life activities.