I recently saw a patient for whom I dispensed a new pair of orthotic devices. This patient had prominent styloid process.

When considering an orthosis for a patient with a prominent styloid process, you have to determine if the styloid needs accommodation. To make this decision, you must first determine whether the styloid is prominent laterally, plantarly, or both. Lateral and plantar styloid prominences required different accommodation.

For a laterally prominent styloid, ask your lab to add extra lateral expansion to the orthosis at the styloid so that the orthosis will extend laterally under the entire styloid process. This prevents the lateral edge of the orthosis from irritating the foot at the styloid.

If the styloid is prominent plantarly, use a sweet spot accommodation. A sweet spot is a pocket or indentation built into the orthotic shell  which is then filled with Poron for cushion. This is an excellent accommodation for any plantar prominence.

If the styloid is prominent both laterally and plantarly, then add extra expansion at the styloid along with a sweet spot.

A prominent styloid may need further orthotic modification in that area after dispensing. To make modifications simpler, prescribe the top cover to be glued on the heel only. This provides easy access to the mid-portion of the orthosis to further modify as necessary.

ProLab takes a scientific approach with our orthoses by integrating evidence-based medicine into orthotic therapy. Our team of Medical Consultants regularly evaluates the medical literature pertaining to orthotic therapy and biomechanics. ProLab clients are encouraged to contact a medical consultant whenever they have questions about an orthotic prescription.

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