A Courageous Young Girl Beats the Odds and Takes Her First Steps

A Courageous Young Girl Beats the Odds and Takes Her First Steps

http://suncoastnews.com/storyimage/SU/20130618/ARTICLE/130619965/AR/0/AR-130619965.jpg&MaxH=337&imageVersion=16by9Ireland Nugent , a small toddler from Palm Harbor began making strides in her new prosthetic lower legs and feet after recuperation. Nugent was unfortunately involved in a riding lawn mower tragedy in April but astoundingly took her first steps on Monday.

“This is a triumph after a tragedy,” Jerry Nugent, Ireland’s father, said in a phone interview, “this is what we’ve been waiting for.” Ireland was released on May 4 after receiving several surgeries to help prepare her for her new limbs. “She just got up and went,” Prosthetics and Orthotics Associates administrator Stephanie Kingston said in response to the toddler’s progress. She did so well that she was sent home early. “In the long term, she should do phenomenal,” Kingston added.

Ireland Nugent shows that foot and ankle orthotics can allow anyone to regain full mobility. Now she proves that foot conditions and foot injuries are something that can be overcome. If you have a need for ankle-foot orthotics, it is highly recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Michael Wynn of Foot Care Associates of Texas, P.A. Dr. Wynn can work with you on treatment options for your foot conditions that might require the use of ankle-foot orthotics.

Ankle Foot Orthotics and What They Do

Usually used for the foot or ankle, orthotics provide support for weakened limbs or help direct the limbs so they may function properly. These orthotics can help strengthen muscles as well as benefitting muscles that need to be loosened or lengthened. Usually the orthoses is designed in a rigid L shape that is contoured to the calf and flesh colored in order to blend with the patient’s appearance.

When are Orthotics Necessary?

Orthotics are prescribed when someone is diagnosed with diseases that affect the musculature such as polio and multiple sclerosis. However, ailments such as arthritis and stroke, or foot conditions that “toe in”, may also require orthotics.

As opposed to metal braces of previous years, modern orthotics have improved tremendously. Many of today’s orthotics are manufactured with lightweight plastics and other advanced materials to provide new levels of support and comfort.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Kingwood, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more on Ankle Foot Orthotics.


This website includes materials that are protected by copyright, or other proprietary rights. Transmission or reproduction of protected items beyond that allowed by fair use, as defined in the copyright laws, requires the written permission of the copyright owners.