Prosthetics and orthotics are an ever-growing allied medical field. It is one of those fields that seems to constantly grow because of new advances in medical technology. Orthotics involves the application of orthotic devices (osteopathic braces, crutches, etc.) to improve the mobility and function of people with limb disorder caused by injury or age.
The term prostheses is applied to all forms of orthosis or impairments resulting from injury or illness. Persons with severe foot-and-ankle disorders are often treated with artificial limbs, see torticollis baby helmet. Lamellar syndromes, a type of arthritis, also sometimes results in the application of crutches. Even diseases such as diabetes and cancer sometimes cause deformities that require the application of prosthetics and orthoses. The use of these devices is not limited to the disabled but is also used for the healthy.
The word prosthetic comes from two Latin terms - a prostern meaning 'made' or 'fitted' and ossere means 'to form.' Thus, prosthetics usually means 'a fitted or created artificial limb.' Orthoses is a Greek word that means joint. So prosthetics and orthotics typically mean 'joints.'
Today's prosthetics and orthotics came in many varieties, also check cranial helmet. There are braces for straightening the knee, hips, and ankles; crutches and support braces for providing temporary relief for those with debilitating knee conditions like gout; toe boards for providing arch support; toe clips and molds for the generation of artificial feet; and c-braces for creating a brace for the correction of spinal deformities. Orthosis also includes a variety of hand-eye co-ordination training devices such as the laser beam eye test and the computerized pointing system for the development of hand-eye coordination in patients with special needs. Other devices include the TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation) device and the EMG (electromyograph) device.
In recent years, many devices for lower extremity prosthetics have become available. For example, the c-band and pocket orthotic are gaining popularity because they offer adjustable comfort and less friction than traditional support braces, making them easier to use. Likewise, new materials and advanced technologies are being utilized in prosthetics and orthotics to make them more comfortable, durable, and reliable. Some manufacturers are incorporating moisture management systems into their prosthetics and orthotics to allow patients to better regulate the temperature within the appliance. New materials and manufacturing techniques are being used to make prosthetics lighter and more durable.
As you can see, there is an ever-changing array of advances in prosthetics and orthotics. Prosthetic devices and orthotic products continue to improve in effectiveness, comfort, reliability, and durability. The next time someone in the Pittsburgh area needs to purchase a prosthetic device, it is a good idea to speak with an experienced orthotic manufacturer. They will be able to help you find the best product for your specific needs. Read more at https://www.encyclopedia.com/sports/sports-fitness-recreation-and-leisure-magazines/orthotics
