Orthotics: The art of creating and restoring movement functions
Orthotic is a field of medicine dealing with design, production and use of orthopedic apparatus and other auxiliary devices to improve the function of movement and quality of life of people with birth defects or acquired musculoskeletal system. Covers a wide range of specialization, from simple pond orthoses to complex limb prostheses and advanced traffic support systems.
History of orthotics
The beginnings of orthotics date back to ancient Egypt, where the first prostheses made of wood and leather were used. In the Middle Ages, metal prostheses began to be used, and in the nineteenth century there was significant progress in this field thanks to the development of new materials and technologies. In the 20th century, orthotics became an independent field of medicine, and today is an extremely advanced and dynamically developing specialization.
Types of orthopedic apparatus
There are many types of orthopedic apparatus, which can be divided into several main categories:
- Orthoses: Used to stabilize, support or restrictions on joint mobility. Can be made of various materials, such as plastic, metal, fabrics and leather.
- Prostheses: Replace missing or amputated limbs, enabling patients to recover the function of movement and independence. Prostheses can be dentures of the upper limbs, lower or breasts.
- Movement support cameras: Support or replace muscle and nerves, enabling patients to walk, condition or performing other movement activities. Examples of movements supporting movement are ankle orthosis with electric drive, exoskeletons and wheelchairs controlled by the movement of the head or eyes.
Applications of orthotics
The orthotics is used in the treatment of a wide spectrum of diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, m.in.:
- Congenital disadvantages of limbs
- Amputation
- Injuries of joints and ligaments
- Rheumatic diseases
- Neurological diseases, such as stroke and spinal muscular atrophy
- Bone fractures
- Back pain
- Sports injuries
Orthotics benefits
Orthotism can provide many benefits for patients with musculoskeletal problems, m.in.:
- Reduction of pain and inflammation
- Improving movement and mobility functions
- Increasing the strength and stability of the joints
- Preventing further injuries
- Support for healing after surgery or injuries
- Improving the quality of life
Orthotics in Poland
In Poland, orthotics is available in public and private healthcare facilities. Patients can get a referral for orthopedic treatment from an orthopedist or other specialist. The costs of orthotic treatment can be partially or entirely covered by the National Health Fund.
Orthotism is an important field of medicine, which can significantly improve the quality of life of people with musculoskeletal problems. Modern technologies and materials allow you to create more and more advanced and effective orthopedic apparatus, which allow patients to recover physical functions and lead an active life.