US Patent 11,963,897 B2

X-tension is first to market with the development of post fitting/ fabrication dorsiflexion limiter for custom AFOs. It is designed to prevent drop off at terminal stance by resisting (Dynamic X-tension) or stopping (Static X-tension) tibial progression over the foot.

X-tension bands come in Dynamic or Static options in both pediatric and adult sizes.

Dynamic X-tension bands resist dorsiflexion and generate plantar flexion assistance resulting in: increased third rocker power, contralateral step length, and single limb stability. Resistance is adjusted by selecting different thicknesses. Adult thicknesses are 1/8", 5/32", 3/16", and 1/4". Pediatric thicknesses are 3/32", 1/8", 5/32", and 3/16". 

Static X-tension bands come in one thickness and rigidly lock the AFO.

As part of LaunchPad's TRIO innovations, X-tension works in combinations with snapstop and pivot ankle joints to achieve desired shank-to-floor alignments and tuning optimization.

Consider treating those sagittal plane compensations with knee extension, and flexion deficits, by increasing single limb stance stability and overall ambulatory confidence in your patient.

Dynamic X-Tension

  • Benefits:

    • Resist tibial progression (dorsiflexion) through stance phase transitions over the foot

    • Increases 3rd rocker power

    • Increases contralateral step length

    • Tunable resistance (4 Adult, 4 Pediatric thicknesses)

  • Indications:

    • Externally rotated foot projection angles

    • Decreased 3rd rocker power

    • Lack of tibial progression

    • Shortened contralateral step length

    • Mild crouch throughout stance phase

    • Slow cadence

Static X-Tension

  • Benefits:

    • Rigidly locks the AFO

    • Stops dorsiflexion through stance phase

  • Indications:

    • Recurvatum

    • Knee flexion instability

    • Lack of tibial progression

    • Shortened contralateral step length

    • Externally rotated foot projection angles

    • Decreased single limb stance stability

    • Decreased 3rd rocker power

    • Slow cadence

Suggested L-Code: L2220 x2

Product Highlights

General

  • No other comparable product on the market

  • Reimbursable as L2220 (x2) - $77.14 per joint ($154.28 total)

  • Designed to work with snapstop

  • Pediatric and Adult sizes

  • Simple post fitting adjustment

    • 4 thicknesses provide increasing resistance

  • Static X-tension provides rigid support to make your orthosis perform more like a solid AFO than an articulated AFO. Transition to an articulated AFO is a simple, in clinic, process

  • Dynamic X-tensions are made of a tough, durable material that resists cutting and will not become brittle

  • Static X-tensions are made of a polymer encapsulated nylon webbing that adds static resistance to dorsiflexion

    • Pediatric X-tensions are rated for over 700 lbs of force

    • Adult X-tensions are rated for over 1100 lbs of force

Fabrication

  • This product needs to be installed with tension on it. Since there is always some play when using rivets, be sure to follow the guidelines related to locating the attachment holes

  • Dynamic X-tensions use standard speedy rivets

  • Static X-tensions need stronger rivets - copper is recommended

  • Static X-tensions are not intended to be used as a “check cord”. They should be installed without any slack.

Clinical

  • Assist in stabilizing sagittal plane knee instabilities

  • Increases patient confidence to advance the knee over the foot by resisting dorsiflexion

  • Improves push off at terminal stance

  • Increases step length and cadence

  • Resolves externally rotated foot projections (excessive toe-out)

  • Post-fabrication tool for optimizing gait performance

Selecting the Right Dynamic X-Tension

Dimensions

Adult

Pediatric