Orthotics

An orthosis is a device which is used on the outside of the body to change the way muscles or bones move or develop. They are used to help when part of the body is deformed or weakened. The Orthotics Department prescribes and provides orthoses to help patients with a range of conditions. 

Orthoses that can be provided include:

  • Functional foot orthoses
  • Ankle foot orthoses
  • Knee ankle foot orthoses
  • Orthopaedic footwear
  • Spinal orthoses
  • Upper limb orthoses

The service treats patients of all ages, ranging from those with a temporary need to those with a long-term need for orthotic intervention.

People with some conditions such as diabetes, cerebral palsy and complex orthopaedic conditions will be treated in multi-disciplinary specialist clinics alongside other professionals. Some people with chronic conditions such as stroke, polio and high-risk diabetes may need a service from the Orthotics Department throughout their life.

Paediatric (children's) services

The paediatric orthotic service treats children up to the age of 18. All children seen in orthotics will be under the care of a consultant from NUH but they may also be referred by an allied health professional.

We treat children on the ward as well as in our outpatient clinics. All children's outpatient clinics are based at the QMC.

All children who need ongoing orthotic care maintain an open appointment so that when they grow out of their orthosis they can access the service directly.

Our workshop

We have an in-house orthotics manufacturing unit at the QMC where we produce a wide range of custom-made orthotic devices, including knee ankle foot orthoses, ankle foot orthoses and custom insoles as well as upper limb and spinal orthoses, all using contemporary materials and designs.

Our insoles are produced using the latest CADCAM technology and we use the latest technological advancements in the profession wherever possible.

Some of our technicians have won awards within the profession for their work.