When making orthosis, which material is often preferred for its combination of strength and lightness?

In the context of orthosis fabrication, metal alloys are often preferred for their favorable balance of strength and weight. Metal alloys provide significant structural integrity, making them suitable for load-bearing applications. Their strength allows for the creation of durable orthoses that can withstand daily use and support the body effectively. While other materials such as plastic and fiberglass are also lightweight and can offer a fair degree of strength, metal alloys excel in situations where maximum support and rigidity are needed without excessive bulk.

Wood, while strong in its own right, is generally heavier and less flexible than modern synthetic materials, making it less desirable for orthotic applications where user comfort and mobility are priorities. Plastic is light and versatile, but it may not provide the same level of strength as metal alloys, particularly in weight-bearing scenarios. Fiberglass is also favored for its lightweight and strong properties, especially in customized orthotic designs, but it may not deliver the same robustness as metal alloys for every application.

Overall, when strength and lightness are crucial, metal alloys often stand out as the material of choice in orthotic fabrication.