Orthotics: Supporters of Your Freedom of Movement
Mobility is an important part of quality of life. Unfortunately, accidents, injuries, or medical conditions can sometimes limit this mobility. At this point, orthoses become an important medical tool that helps people live a more comfortable and healthy life. In this article, we will explore what orthotics are, the different types and how they are used.
What is Orthosis?
Orthoses are medical devices used to support, correct or protect the body. It is usually designed to stabilize, straighten or hold body parts in proper position. Orthotics can be made from many different materials and can be customized to fit body parts.
In Which Situations Are Orthoses Used?
Orthotics are used in a number of medical conditions or situations. Here are some examples:
1. Injuries
- Leg Fractures : It is used to support the healing of bones after leg fractures.
- Sprains and Sprains : Used to increase joint stability and accelerate healing.
- Tendon Injuries : It can be used to treat tendinitis, tendinopathy or tendon injuries.
2. Chronic Conditions
- Osteoarthritis : Used to reduce joint pain and support joint function.
- Scoliosis : It is used for spine correction and support.
- Diabetic Foot : It is used to protect the foot health of diabetic patients.
3. Cerebral Palsy and Other Neurological Disorders
- Cerebral Palsy : It is used to regulate muscle tone and increase mobility.
- Post-Stroke Rehabilitation : It can be used to improve the movement abilities of stroke patients.
Types of Orthoses
Orthotics are available in many different types for different body parts and purposes. Here are some common types of orthotics:
1. Foot Orthoses
- Foot Correcting Orthoses : Used in cases where foot correction is required.
- Heel Spur Pads : Used to relieve heel pain.
- AFO (Ankle Adjustment Orthosis) : Used to support and correct the ankle.
2. Knee Orthoses
- Knee braces : Used to manage knee injuries or osteoarthritis.
- Donjoy Knee Braces : It is widely used especially in sports injuries and in the post-surgical period.
- KO Orthoses (Knock-Knee) : Used to correct the knees of people whose feet are close together.
3. Back Orthoses
- Brace : Used to manage conditions such as back pain or scoliosis.
- Waist Belt : Used to support and protect the waist area.
4. Hand and Wrist Orthoses
- Carpal Tunnel Orthosis : It is used to reduce nerve compression in the wrist.
- Finger Splint : Used to manage finger injuries or the post-surgical period.
Advantages of Orthoses
Orthoses offer their users a number of advantages:
- Pain Reduction : Orthotics can reduce pain and help a person be more active.
- Improving Movement Ability : May help relieve movement restrictions caused by injuries or illnesses.
- Accelerating the Healing Process : Orthoses can speed up the healing process and make the post-surgical period easier.
Health and mobility are important for everyone, and orthotics can play an important role in this. Choosing the right orthosis to increase your mobility and improve your quality of life can open the doors to a healthier and happier life.