About Orthosis

An orthosis is an external brace that someone wears to support and either prevent movement or assist in the movement of the spine, arms or legs. Orthoses are named after the body part they protect or support.

Function

• Orthoses provide support for people with orthopedic conditions, physical impairments and congenital defects. They are used to increase stability and improve quality of life, and are often used to decrease pain and discomfort.

Types

• A reciprocating gait orthosis helps paraplegics, who are unable to use their lower extremities, stand and walk. A spinal orthosis provides back support for those with osteoporosis or back weakness.

Features

• Orthoses are most commonly made of plastic and are molded to comfortably fit the wearer. The specialist makes a plaster of the affected foot or leg and sends it to an orthotist for production.

Size

• Although standard size models are available at drugstores and pharmacies, orthoses can be custom made to fit people of all ages and can be molded to fit any size extremity. A small child may be fitted with an orthosis to correct a deformed foot or to improve their abilities while an adult is fitted with an orthosis for hip problems.

Misconceptions

• According to Douglas H. Richie, DPM, it is a common misconception that orthoses lead to muscle weakness and reliance on the device.