The Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker (CROW) orthosis is a custom fabricated brace which maintains the foot in a plantigrade position for ambulation and protection of the joints and skin by the uniform transfer or distribution of weight over the foot until the time when the pathology reaches the stage of coalescence (the fusion or blending of parts).
A cast mold is taken of the patient’s foot and the brace is custom made from this cast. It is a rigid, full-foot enclosure, total contact ankle foot orthosis (AFO). A rocker bottom is applied to the sole of the orthosis to facilitate a more functional gait pattern.
ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS
Charcot Foot
Diabetes
WEARING PROTOCOL
The CROW is to be worn which up and ambulating during the day.
DON AND DOFF
§ The CROW orthosis is a two piece design (clam shell type)
§ Place foot in back of brace making sure your heel is well seated.
§ Attach front with straps snugly.
SUGGESTIONS
§ Frequent checking of skin areas for redness, blisters, or any skin changes.
§ White socks should be worn. If there is a pressure sore even beginning on the bottom of the foot, this would demonstrate itself on the sock.
§ Any skin changes should be reported to your physician and Orthotist immediately.