The Orthotics and Prosthetics
Orthotics and prosthetics are different types of medical devices that help patients with disabilities — specifically those who have lost an arm, leg or other body part. These devices are designed to give a person the ability to walk and move without pain or discomfort.
An orthotist is a healthcare professional who designs and makes braces, splints, or other orthotic devices to aid a patient’s movement. They work closely with physicians and other health professionals to help patients manage the effects of injuries, birth defects and diseases. They also make and fit devices to help people with spinal or limb conditions, or deformities of the feet, limbs or spine.
A prosthetist is a healthcare professional who makes and fits artificial limbs (prostheses). They often specialize in creating one specific type of limb, such as the 3D printed Hero Arm or J-shaped Flex Foot used by break dancers.
They typically earn a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree in orthotics or prosthetics from an accredited program. They also need to get a state license. Make sure to check out this website at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOBspfZpWpc for more details about prosthetics.
Prosthetics are often confused with orthotics, but they’re two very different things. While an orthotic may provide structure for a damaged limb, a prosthetic is an artificial limb that replaces a missing body part.
The best way to differentiate between these two medical devices is to look at how they function and how they affect a patient’s quality of life. For example, orthotics can help a person with problems using their feet by reducing the stress they experience while walking.
In contrast, prosthetics can replace a missing limb by making an artificial limb that is as close to the patient’s original limb as possible. This can be an important difference, as many patients require a certain design to accommodate their habits and lifestyles.
When a patient’s condition has progressed to the point where they no longer have a functioning limb, they should consult with plagiocephaly helmet professional as soon as possible. This could help prevent additional problems and complications down the road, such as loss of sensation or numbness in the missing limb.
UMMC’s Orthopaedics prosthetics and orthotics division, located at University Rehabilitation Center, evaluates, fabricates and custom fits artificial limbs and braces for children and adults according to doctor’s prescription. The team of specialists consists of more than 20 years of experience dedicated to proper fitting, function and appearance of each device.
Bionics companies Philadelphia also provide ongoing care, including evaluation and modification of each device for optimal fit and function. Their responsibilities include preparing the patient for the device, taking measurements and making impressions of the body, developing templates as needed and manufacturing the fabricated orthotic or prosthetic to ensure it fits properly.
O&P practitioners are part of an inter-disciplinary team that includes physicians, physical and occupational therapists, prosthetists, orthotists and nurses. These professionals work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. The team’s goal is to provide patients with the highest level of service and care in a safe and compassionate manner.
