Orthotics is the design,
fabrication, fitting and supervised use of custom-made braces and other
devices such as cervical, spinal, knee, and foot orthotics, that provide
external support to treat disoders, weakened or injured joints and /or
muscle groups. Musculoskeletal disorders are ailments of the back,
extremities or joints caused by traumatic injuries, chronic conditions,
disease, congenital disorders or resulting from sports or other
activities. In some instances, it is necessary to design and fabricate a
custom orthosis for a specific need. The orthotist custom fits an
off-the-shelf device to the patient's dimensions, or incorporates
additional components to achieve the sesired results. An orthosis may be
worn temporarily until a weakness or injury is overcome, or on a
permanent basis to facilitate impaired function due to a congenital or
degenerative condition.