Experiences and perceived effectiveness of carbon-fibre triplanar orthotics for people affected by polio: A qualitative descriptive study

A new type of carbon-fibre triplanar orthotic (CTO) was recently introduced to New Zealanders affected by polio. This study aimed assess CTO recipients’ experiences and perceptions these orthotics. qualitative descriptive based on semi-structured interviews conducted explore people who have had polio regarding the impact CTOs health wellbeing, process training adjustment, how benefits from were or not achieved. Participants described substantial investments time, energy money needed acquire adapt (Theme 1). They expected improve their posture, mobility, relieve pain prevent deterioration in functioning. However, frequently there a mismatch between reality expectations 2). Ongoing rehabilitation support plus sustained commitment effort recipients contributed gained orthotics 3). When considering purchase CTO, should be aware energy, personal cost required fully benefit orthotic. also that individual responses orthotics, including subjective reports success, can highly variable.