Orthotics and prosthetics (OP) specialists combine knowledge from art, science, technology and medicine to properly fit, manufacture and repair prosthetics limbs (or orthoses). An essential part of all healthcare teams, O&P specialists work not just with patients but also as part of an interdisciplinary team dealing with physical therapists, physicians and other healthcare professionals. Working as specialists, they are trained to provide customized treatment plans for patients with conditions like arthritic conditions, muscular conditions, diabetic foot conditions, and spinal cord injuries. They are the main link between these healthcare professionals and their patients.
In most cases, O&P specialists are associated with the facility where they practice, either in a hospital or a clinic. However, because of the increasing demands for services in the home and the increasing need for non-traditional prosthetic and orthotic products, many health centers are now contracting out services to specialist prosthetists. Specialists in this field focus on providing comprehensive rehabilitation services to patients, often working alongside physicians. O&P specialists have an extensive background in medical, dental and surgical science to help them design, manufacture and fit prosthetic limbs.
Orthotics and prosthetics services include assessment of functional anatomy, assessment of therapeutic needs and functional stability. This includes evaluating the mechanical, structural and physiological properties of the bones, joints, tendons and muscles. O&P specialists use diagnostic imaging and computerized tomography (CT) scans as well as x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess skeletal stability. O&P specialists are also trained to perform therapeutic procedures that help improve muscle function and increase muscle strength.
O&P specialists can help individuals with disabilities to live more active lives. They can provide assistance with activities of daily living such as climbing stairs, getting up from a chair and moving comfortably around one's dwelling. Individuals with physical limitations may require special orthoses or even rehabilitative orthoses. These devices are designed to help restore independence and decrease the dependence on others. O&P specialists offer comprehensive solutions that target the underlying condition causing the problem, offer therapeutic treatment and restore freedom.
O&P devices and orthotics came in a wide variety of forms and types including braces, crutches, cushions, hand rails, hand grips and more. Some devices can be customized to fit the patient's specific needs, while others are less expensive and more affordable. These devices allow for more comfortable movement and are much more effective at rehabbing the condition of the bones, joints and muscles than traditional orthoses and prosthetics. The cost of orthotics and prosthetic devices varies according to the design, material and skill of the manufacturer. Custom made orthotics and prosthetics may be more expensive than off the shelf models, but they can also offer a higher level of quality and durability.
O&P devices can be used to correct deformities caused by birth defects, accidents and post-surgical infections. These devices must be properly fitted and correctly used in order for them to be effective. Many doctors perform these procedures, but many individuals prefer to purchase prosthetic devices. These devices can be purchased at a medical equipment specialty store, online and through other channels of medical supply. If you have had a personal injury that has caused you to be unable to use your legs, you may be able to use these devices to regain your mobility and function.