Design and prototyping by additive manufacturing of a functional splint for rehabilitation of Achilles tendon intrasubstance rupture

Abstract

Technology allows the realization of individualized immobilization splints by Advanced Manufacturing techniques based on additive manufacturing, industrial digitalization and reverse engineering. In this sense, good results have been achieved in the optimization of the design process, the reduction of manufacturing costs, the development of materials used and the environmental impact. However, its definitive implementation requires other factors of improvement that take into account the initial sanitary use for which they were designed. The present study aims to provide functional characteristics in the initial design to a splint for rehabilitation of partial Achilles tendon rupture. The result allows applying simultaneous rehabilitation techniques during the immobilization stage of the affected limb in order to minimize the possible muscular, joint and vascular complications derived from the application of the classic retention devices in this phase of the treatment.