The Prosthetics and Orthotics (O&P) Profession


Prosthetics and orthotics are health care professions that help people who have lost a limb, suffered orthopedic impairment or experienced physical disability. Using specialized knowledge, O&P professionals fit patients with artificial limbs (prostheses) and orthopedic braces to restore mobility, reduce pain, prevent complications and improve quality of life.

The plagiocephaly helmet replace missing body parts, including arms, legs and hands. They may be body-powered or myoelectric and can help people move more efficiently or participate in certain activities, like typing.

The world of prosthetics and orthotics is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of patients. Professionals work with patients to develop a treatment plan that incorporates movement sciences, clinical assessment, material design and behavioral science.

An orthotist evaluates the patient’s needs and goals, selects a design and fabricates a device to meet those requirements. They also provide a custom fit to ensure that the device is comfortable, stable, functional and fits the patient’s body type.

They work closely with other members of the rehabilitative team, such as surgeons, primary care doctors and physiotherapists, to help patients overcome challenges that affect their mobility or daily function. The best practitioners have a keen understanding of patient needs and are capable of integrating the information they receive from other professionals into a personalized treatment plan that addresses a wide range of conditions.

When designing a custom-fabricated device, the orthotist considers several factors, including the anatomy of the affected part, the patient’s functional needs, and how much activity is required to achieve these needs. In some cases, they may use a mold of the extremity to help them create a well-fitted, durable product.

Alternatively, they may use a computer to design the device and create a 3-D model of it. This model can then be fabricated with the help of machine tools, and is generally faster than using a mold.

In addition to the evaluation, fabrication and fitting of devices, O&P professionals provide ongoing support to their patients. They teach their patients how to take care of their devices and how to use them properly. They also help their patients with any modifications that are needed, such as replacing worn out pieces.

An O&P professional’s training includes a thorough knowledge of anatomy, physiology and biomechanics. This is important because it allows them to make accurate recommendations for devices that will help their patients achieve optimum function and quality of life.

The NewJersey prosthetics company specializes in area of the profession, such as lower limb orthotics or upper limb orthotics. Others work in multiple areas, such as spinal orthoses or cranial remoldings.

Spinal orthoses are devices that can be used to treat scoliosis, which is an abnormal curvature of the spine. They can help to correct spinal injuries, improve posture and alleviate pressure on the spine.

They can also be used to treat a variety of other problems, such as backaches, knee injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome. They can be made from a wide variety of materials, including leather, plastics, metal and synthetic fibers. It’s good to click on this site to learn more about the topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthotist.

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