~ Brian E
Island Orthotics Customer
The field of orthotics involves the design, fabrication and fitting of orthoses (braces or splints) intended to prevent or correct deformities, protect a painful part of the body or improve the function of a weakened extremity. This may include anything from custom fabricated arch supports to braces for the knee, back, shoulder or arm.
Patients may be referred to the clinical prosthetist or orthotist through a multi-disciplinary clinic or directly by his or her physician. Once a prescription has been developed, the patient is seen by the prosthetist or orthotist who then designs the device that has been prescribed. The clinician takes measurements and/or molds necessary to fabricate the device and supervises its fabrication by the technical staff. The prosthetist or orthotist then fits the device, and makes any adjustments necessary to ensure optimal functional use by the patient.