Orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) can help a child with an orthopaedic disorder or deformity, or a missing limb return to optimal function and form. At Shriners Hospitals for Children® we fabricate thousands of orthotics and prosthetics each year. Many hospitals have O&P labs in house so that adjustments can be made and evaluated onsite.
All of our hospitals are staffed with certified Orthotists and Prosthotists with diverse educational backgrounds and innovative design capabilities. The O&P teams collaborate closely with our doctors, nurses, and occupational and physical therapists to achieve the best possible outcome for children with orthopaedic conditions.
Orthotics
Orthotics are custom foot support devices that may be as simple as an insert worn in your child’s shoe, to a full-leg brace or other similar device. Some orthotics are worn during the day and during all regular activities. Other orthotic devices are designed to be worn only during the night.
The type of orthotic your child needs, and when and how they will wear it will depend on your child’s orthopaedic condition and developmental abilities. Because children grow rapidly orthotics may need to be replaced at least twice a year. Every device is custom-made for your child, and he or she can even pick the pattern of the material the orthotic is made from. Our designs range from sports team logos and camouflage to butterflies, flag patterns and more.
Prosthetics
Shriners Hospitals for Children® also manufactures its own prosthetic devices, giving us the unique ability to measure, manufacture, fit and assess the devices in one place. Our prosthetic devices range from a foot or hand, to a full arm or leg.
Many prosthetics will require adjustment as children become more comfortable with them, and they will need to be replaced relatively frequently as your child grows. Our prosthetic designs are state of the art, and can be specialized to allow your child to participate in a various athletic or other activities. Wherever possible your child will be able to select the pattern of the material the prosthetic is made from. Our designs range from sports team logos and camouflage to butterflies, flag patterns and more.