The state of technical orthopaedics in spina bifida.

The Aschau experiences with different types of functional orthosis in children with MMC are described. The new type of orthosis allows maximal function and especially in lower level lesions, independent walking and free standing. The majority of the patients walk without help so that they have free hands. This helps them to accept the orthosis. The choice of the patients who are fitted with the functional orthosis must be very skillful.