Seniors | Braceworks Custom Orthotics

Biomechanics of propulsion: Implications for AFOs

For many patients, the ability of an ankle foot orthosis to enhance propulsion is key to improving gait efficiency and reducing fatigue. But experts are only beginning to understand the biomechanical complexities that influence … READ MORE

Charcot-Marie-Tooth: AFO mechanics and gait patterns

Patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease showing the greatest increase in speed appear to respond to and utilize the energy storing and releasing properties of a carbon fiber composite ankle foot orthosis differently from those who … READ MORE

Register for rehabilitation and fitness programs at University of Calgary

Adapted Physical Activity for Kids Our Adapted Physical Activity program offers children 4-14 years old with special needs the opportunity to gain independence and health benefits in an encouraging and understanding environment. Each … READ MORE

Health benefits: Coverage, access and service

Health benefits coverage with public health and private insurance plans Save with your public health benefits coverage. Braceworks is an approved provider with Alberta Aids to Daily Living AADL Work Safe BC BC Pharmacare Manitoba … READ MORE

Bracing for the falls of an aging nation

As the population ages and people live longer in bad shape, the number of older Americans who fall and suffer serious, even fatal, injuries is soaring. Read Part 2. Mrs. Hammer remains independent after her fall, and is now more … READ MORE

Do elite athletes have an anti-aging secret in their muscles?

Elite runners do not experience the muscle weakening associated with aging as non-athletes do. A new study published in the American Journal of Physiology—Cell Physiology examines if their superb fitness is because their muscles … READ MORE

Internet-connected brace designed to help seniors avoid falls

Clinicians and patients can view progress easily, using an app or a web dashboard, to assess and adjust for improved mobility and self-sufficiency. Ben Coxworth, Gizmag November 10, 2015 Falls can be devastating for the elderly, … READ MORE

Helping the world to grow old more gracefully

Ageing, says Richard Suzman, is “reshaping our world.” Like climate change, “it seems inexorable, and is gradual”, he says; but the global impact of ageing on health, disability, wellbeing, and poverty might eventually turn … READ MORE

Custom hinged AFO vs. standard ankle foot orthosis in stroke recovery

Functional Bracing with Adjustable Dynamic Response. Address the entire gait cycle providing unrestricted motion, customized stability, and smooth rollover. Ultraflex Hemiparesis is one of the most common impairments after stroke that … READ MORE

In-home physical therapy and rehabilitation service

Get personalized rehab in the comfort of your home. In Calgary and Edmonton, travelling therapists visit patients in their homes, assisted living, and long term care. Maintain or improve your mobility level – in one’s own … READ MORE

Why are glasses perceived differently than hearing aids?

All bodies are getting assistance from technology all the time, yet some are stigmatized. Abler is one woman’s quest to rectify this. A common example of assistive technology. Patrick Murphy, Flickr Rebecca J. Rosen, The … READ MORE

Knee surgery shows no benefit for mild osteoarthritis

A new study indicates that there is no apparent benefit to arthroscopic knee surgery for age-related tears of the meniscus in comparison with nonsurgical or sham treatments. Ballroom Dancing Shoes. When you plan to twirl, step, and … READ MORE

Adapted Tango: bringing artistry to rehabilitation

Adapted tango, a version of traditional Argentine tango modified to address motor impairments, has been shown to improve balance, mobility, and cognition in older adults and patients with Parkinson disease, with better compliance than … READ MORE

Alberta seniors programs and services guide 2014–2015

Published by Alberta Health, July 2014 Alberta Supports Contact Centre Toll-free anywhere in Alberta: 1-877-644-9992 Edmonton: 780-644-9992 See Health services – page 20 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan – page 20 … READ MORE

Keep Moving to Stay a Step Ahead of Arthritis

I was a fanatical tennis player for decades until my increasingly painful arthritic knees forced me to stop playing. The knees were replaced two years later, but by then, I had filled in my life with other activities, including a … READ MORE

Approved orthotic service providers in Calgary

Orthotics required for daily use for a minimum of six months are a cost-shared benefit with Alberta Aids to Daily Living, AADL. Clients pay 25% of the cost of all benefits covered under AADL, up to a maximum of $500 per family per … READ MORE

Refresh your brace with new straps

Pop a rivet? Blow a strap? Drop-in service for minor repairs while you wait. Drop off your used devices for recycling. Please call ahead. Braceworks is located in Calgary, Alberta Canada ☞ See map below Amy Lisbeth photo Have … READ MORE

Assistive tech remains utterly marginalized from mainstream design

“Ugh! The dreaded tennis ball on the legs of a walker. Words cannot describe how unhappy this makes me. It’s the quintessential example of a design fail, but ask anyone who’s suffered through dragging the standard … READ MORE

Uncovering costs of elder care in Canada

One in seven Canadians is over the age of 65, 77% have at least one chronic condition, and more than nine in ten want to remain in their own homes. For the children of these seniors, many of whom are working full-time and supporting … READ MORE

Daily walking does not have a negative impact on knee osteoarthritis

A new study has offered fresh evidence that taking regular walks does not carry any risk for knee osteoarthritis patients of making their condition worse. Evoke™ unloading knee brace Arthritis Research UK 19 June 2015 The … READ MORE

Knee replacement FAQs

What causes OA? Factors that may lead to OA include: weight gain, advancing age and joint injury. What is OA of the knee? The knee joint includes the patella (kneecap), the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shinbone). These bones are … READ MORE

Osteoarthritis of the knee FAQs

What causes OA? Factors that may lead to OA include: weight gain, advancing age and joint injury. What is OA of the knee? The knee joint includes the patella (kneecap), the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shinbone). These bones are … READ MORE

Immediate effect of AFOs on postural stability in older adults

Jürgen with WalkOn on stairs. Moving naturally. You can move naturally with the WalkOn during the day. When you crouch down or walk up a set of stairs for example, you can put a natural load on the forefoot. The WalkOn is ideally … READ MORE

Keep moving booklet

This booklet is for people with arthritis who want to know more about how they can exercise safely. We’ll explain why exercise is helpful and important, and what types of exercise you can do. The handy poster shows you some examples … READ MORE

Apply for AADL benefits

Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) helps Albertans with a long-term disability, chronic or terminal illness to pay for basic medical equipment and supplies. Services and information Approved vendors list Authorizers and vendors Find … READ MORE

Work related joint disorders

A change of physical working methods can lead to you developing a joint disorder. In this booklet we’ll explain how some common problems can arise and how to recognise them. We’ll explain the possible causes of symptoms and also … READ MORE

AADL Authorizer and vendor information

Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL). AADL helps Albertans with a long-term disability, chronic or terminal illness to pay for basic medical equipment and supplies. The AADL bulletin provides notices, updates and reminders to AADL … READ MORE

AADL program information

Cost sharing of benefits The Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) program helps Albertans with a long-term disability, chronic illness or terminal illness to maintain their independence at home, in lodges or group homes by providing … READ MORE

Change your AADL service provider

You can change your AADL vendor or supplier based on need or choice: choose a new AADL approved vendor from the list complete the AADL Change Vendor Request form (PDF, 158 KB) fax or send the completed form to AADL Contact AADL You … READ MORE

Hip replacement surgery

If you’re thinking about having hip replacement surgery you’ll probably have lots of questions on your mind. In this booklet we’ll explain when hip replacement might be needed and what you can expect from surgery. To help you in … READ MORE