What is an Orthosis?
Is a custom made or prefabricated device that is used to:
Support a weak or deformed body part
or
Restrict or eliminate motion of a body part
Can be rigid (does not bend/flex) or semirigid (allows slight flexibility)
Purpose of an Orthosis
Mobilization: Applies controlled force to improve joint motion or soft tissue length
Immobilization: Holds joint(s) in a fixed position to protect healing tissues or reduce pain
Restriction: Limits specific joint movements while allowing other joint movements to promote function and prevent injury
Torque transmission: Redirects force from one part of the body to assist in the movement or function of another
Design Features of Orthoses
Static: No moving parts; orthosis immobilizes or holds the joint in a fixed position
Serial static: A static orthosis that is remodeled/changed over time to gradually stretch tissue and improve range of motion
Dropout: Restrics motion in certain directions but allows free movement in others
Dynamic: Has moving parts like elastic components or springs that provide continuous force to promote motion, such as stretching a joint
Static-progressive: A static orthosis with adjustable tension (such as velcro straps or springs) that progressively stretches tissue over time
References
Coppard, B. M., & Lohman, H. L. (2020). Introduction to orthotics: A clinical reasoning & problem-solving approach (5th ed.). Elsevier.