Orthotic & Prosthetic Services
Orthotics
Orthotic devices are braces or splints 
you use on various parts of your 
body to correct medical conditions
 or support weak muscles. Different
 kinds of devices are made for areas
 below your waist, above your waist 
and your spine.
Doctors often suggest shoe or
 custom-molded inserts to help
 relieve common foot and ankle
 issues like:
- Bunions
- Flat feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Arthritis
These inserts act like shock
 absorbers and reduce pain, position
 your foot better and relieve pressure.
 And by correcting foot issues, you
 may find other relief as well. Studies
 show that many back problems can
 be linked to foot imbalance issues.
Doctors also prescribe orthotics for
 treatment of scoliosis and osteoporosis, plus a variety of
 sprains and other soft tissue injuries.
If you’re looking for extra cushioning
 and comfort, then you can purchase
 over-the-counter orthotics at drug 
or running stores. For more serious 
issues, your doctor will order custom 
orthotics, and usually insurance will
 help cover the cost of the prescription.
Prosthetics
A prosthetic is a man-made body 
part that helps you regain the use
 of a limb. For example, if your leg is 
amputated below your knee, you can
 learn to walk again with a prosthetic.
Common Prosthetic Questions and Answers
When will I get the prosthesis? 
Usually, you will get measurements 
and a fitting several weeks after
 surgery when the wound is healed
 and the tissue swelling goes down.
 Then you will have several more
 fittings to make sure you get the
 best fit and comfort for your needs.
 How long will it last? 
Depending on your age and how 
active you are, your prosthesis
 can last from several months to
 several years.
What if it doesn’t fit right? 
You will make several visits for 
adjustments plus get training 
from a therapist. Make sure you
 communicate honestly about
 how the prosthesis feels and ask
 questions.
Additional Resources:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: 
 orthoinfo.aaos.org
 American Podiatric Medical Association: 
 www.apma.org 
 
Amputee Coalition: 

