Orthotics

Referrals are received for a range of conditions including Musculoskeletal, Neuro-muscular, diabetic patients and paediatric patients (please note this list is not exhaustive).  This can be to help:

• Immobilise a joint
• Improve function or mobility
• Control specific movements
• Prevent undesired movement
• Accommodate a deformity
• Protect a joint
• Prevent falls
• Protect at risk feet

Part of Therapy Services, the aim of the Orthotics Department is to help with treatment and rehabilitation by providing specially-designed devices or ‘orthoses’ worn on the body.  These are designed to help with e.g. patient rehabilitation following surgery or relieve a medical condition or disability and so may help prevent the development of more disabling conditions or problems. These devices could include:

• Footwear (made to measure and shoe alterations)
• Lumbar Supports
• Knee Braces
• Insoles
• Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFOs)
• Wrist Splints
• Collars or Helmets
• Compression Stockings
• Wigs

You may receive your orthosis at your first appointment if you require one, as we carry a large range of stock, but more often it will be specifically ordered and made for you. 

At the clinical appointment the orthotist will carry out a full biomechanical evaluation of the individual’s needs.

Measurements will be taken if required, and this may also include taking a plaster cast (as some types of products are made to measure).

The orthotist will fully explain what to expect from your orthosis and when and how to wear it.

A second appointment may be required for fitting. 

Orthotics also run wig-fitting clinics for people who are suffering from hair loss due to alopecia or due to medical treatment such as chemotherapy. 

With some products a patient may need to pay for some of items provided and for this reason prescription charges are displayed in the department.  If you are exempt from charges, the service will ask that you provide supporting evidence of this and the service may also ask you to complete a form.

Orthotics treats both adults and children and outpatient clinics are held at all three hospital sites:

• Dewsbury and District Hospital – clinics are held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays, from 8.40 – 4.30 pm.
• Pinderfields Hospital – clinics are held every Monday*, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8.40 – 4.30 pm.

* please note this clinic only runs from 8.40 – 12.30 pm.

• Pontefract Hospital – clinics are held every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday** from 8.40 – 4.30 pm.

** please note this clinic only runs every two weeks.

Referrals are received from e.g. Diabetes, Rheumatology, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy.