Orthotics
What Is Orthotics?
Orthotics is a medical field involving the design, production, and installation of orthoses (orthotic appliances) to straighten, align, support, or enhance the function of a body part. These devices are also referred to as orthoses or orthotics and are designed by orthotists.
There are different types of orthotics (or orthoses) that are either custom made or readymade. These medical appliances can be designed for different parts of the body such as the knee, wrists, upper limb, hips, foot, and more.
Specialists combine the knowledge of biomechanics, anatomy and physiology, engineering, and pathophysiology (study of physical conditions associated with diseases or injuries), to produce orthoses.
What Are the Different Types of Orthotics?
Orthotic appliances are designed for different needs and different parts of the body. There are over-the-counter orthoses available as well as custom-made ones. Doctors recommend using orthoses that are produced for your specific condition and body.
The different types of orthotics include:
Foot Orthosis
These are the most common types of orthotics around. They’re designed to provide support for the foot, reduce pain, prevent a foot problem from worsening, relieve pressure on certain foot areas, and correct abnormal gaits or walking patterns.
Knee Orthosis
This is a brace worn around the knee to provide support and strength. It’s beneficial to people suffering from conditions such as osteoarthritis and arthritis. It works by taking away pressure from the affected knee joint.
Wrist/Hand Orthoses
These are wearable devices used to assist range of motion, for stabilisation/positioning, or to prevent a joint form extending excessively. It can also be used to aid in rehabilitation in fracture cases.
Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)
This is a brace used to compensate for weakness in the ankle, correct deformities, or control the motion and position of the ankle. AFOs can also be used to support weak limbs, position limbs into a more normal position, and to control foot drop that may be the result of a neurologic and musculoskeletal disorder.
Cervical Orthoses
This is a rigid plastic device, also called a neck brace, that encircles the neck and provides support for the back of the head and chin. The brace is commonly used to immobilise the neck of patients who have had cervical spine surgery or suffered a whiplash injury.
Spinal Orthosis
This is a back brace used to hold the spine in place. It is mainly used to prevent the curvature of a spine from getting worse.
How Do You Know If You Need Orthotics?
If you’re experiencing difficulty with your posture or pain in certain joints and bones, it’s advised that you consult a doctor or physical therapist. Your therapist may recommend an orthosis if your condition can be optimised with the device.
What Are the Best Orthoses to Use?
Over-the-counter orthotics are carefully manufactured to provide support and produce therapeutic effects.
However, if you’re suffering from a certain condition, it is always recommended that you go for custom-made orthotic appliances. This way, your doctor can prescribe a device that will be produced specifically to suit your body and treat your condition.
Will You Have to Wear Orthoses Forever?
Most orthotics are designed to correct and support function. This means you may need to wear the device as long as you want to perform certain tasks. However, orthotics used to aid rehabilitation can be dropped as the healing process progresses.