Prosthetics and orthotics is actually one of the fields in the healthcare profession that is rapidly growing as a matter of fact. Technically speaking, the two, prosthetics and orthotics, are two separate fields and approaches but all said and done, the common purpose that they happen to be serving has actually made them come into a kind of single unit as a cooperative entity. The following is a rundown on some of the generalities you would want to know of when it comes to prosthetics and orthotics.
By and large, talking of prosthetics, this that field where we see the use of the artificial limbs, referred to as prostheses, to help improve the lifestyle and function of those who may have suffered a loss of limb. The prosthesis need to be such that will be a combination, looking at the materials, the design, alignment and construction so as to ensure that they are such that will match the functional requirements of the person who will be wearing them.
Added to this, it is to be noted as a fact that the needs for these may as well vary and can be so complex between the lower and the upper limbs. In most cases, the lower limb prostheses will come designed to help with a number of the needs there may be such as stability and motion, shock absorption, cosmetic appearance, help with the athletic activities such as jumping and running, designed as well for energy storage and the like. Looking at the upper limb prostheses, these are the kinds that are designed to help with much of the needs for the upper limbs such as reaching and grasping, some of the occupational challenges that may follow these like hammering and painting, and the daily life activities such as reading and writing.
Looking at the orthotics, these involve a lot of precision and creativity when it comes to the design and the making of the external braces that would be a key component of a patient’s treatment process. These orthosis, the external braces, basically serve to help control the weakened or deformed regions of the body of the physically challenged individuals. The orthoses, the external braces will be used on a number of the parts of the body and some of these are such as on the upper and lower limbs as well, cranium and as well on the spine. When it comes to these, the following are some of the most common kinds of orthoses, the cranial helmets, those for scoliosis survival, some of the ones used for serious neck injuries and the many others. There are even the foot orthoses that are used for the rehab needs for the kids who may be suffering from cerebral palsy. Over the recent past, we have had a rise in the kinds of orthotics that help with the various needs of young children and you can check these out here.