Polymer Chemistry in Shoulder Orthotics

Year : 2025 | Volume : 14 | Special Issue 01 | Page : 21 28
    By

    Kashinath D. Sahoo,

  • Devyani Mukund Moghe,

  1. Associate Professor and Head, Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Krishna College of Physiotherapy, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad, Maharashtra, India
  2. Researcher and student, Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Krishna College of Physiotherapy, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The design of effective shoulder orthotic devices has increasingly made use of polymeric materials because of their versatility, durability, and biocompatibility. This review illustrates polymer chemistry role in constructing an orthotic device for shoulder subluxation, which is a commonly occurring post stroke or injury condition. Proprietary design elements such as polypropylene are rigid yet moldable which help in anatomical formulating for joint stabilization. On the other hand, rubber elastomers, medicinal rubber and ethaflex help improve comfort provided to the patient with regard to pressure and shock absorption around the shoulder and upper arm. These viscoelastic materials also reduce friction between skin surfaces which improves adherence to the device. Modern designs of orthoses include the new feature of electrodes being embedded within the cushioning layer made of polymers. These parts assist in pain alleviation by means of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), which is a type of non-invasive electrotherapy. Functional polymers are used to coat the electrodes so that they will have insulation, protection, and flexibility. The combination of rigid and soft polymers facilitates transfer of forces by a three-point pressure system of dominant forces to the frame, resulting in reduction of discomfort when moving the arms during subluxation treatment. Sutureless self-tightening devices that are flexible achieve better movement adaptability compared to conventional orthoses. Anticipation of smart polymers, biodegradable matrices, and antimicrobial surfaces will result in orthoses that have responsive, eco-friendly, and therapeutically useful properties. Polymer chemistry aids in the progression of orthotic, or prosthetic, devices because it simplifies the industrial fabrication of shoulder orthoses through the integration of design, function, structure, and patient.

Keywords: Biomechanics, medicinal rubber, orthotic devices, polymer chemistry, polymeric materials, polypropylene, shoulder subluxation, TENS therapy.

[This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of Polymer & Composites (jopc)]

How to cite this article:
Kashinath D. Sahoo, Devyani Mukund Moghe. Polymer Chemistry in Shoulder Orthotics. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2025; 14(01):21-28.
How to cite this URL:
Kashinath D. Sahoo, Devyani Mukund Moghe. Polymer Chemistry in Shoulder Orthotics. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2025; 14(01):21-28. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2025/view=224506


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Special Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
Special Issue 01
Received 03/05/2025
Accepted 16/05/2025
Published 11/11/2025
Publication Time 192 Days
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