Special Medical Discipline
Orthotics is a specialist medical discipline which focuses on the use of external devices applied to any part of the body to reduce pain and discomfort and make mobility more manageable.
An orthotist will conduct an in-depth physical examination of the body and take an extensive medical and social history to determine what orthotic device a client might benefit from. Our friendly team at LEWis BRAND Orthotics use easy to understand language taking the medical jargon away and break down the problem into an easy-to-understand solution to improve activity and work towards client goals.
LEWis BRAND Orthotics strive to achieve unparalleled comfort and bespoke solutions focused around client goals, enriching your way of life and improving your overall welfare. Whether it is 3D printed insoles using the latest technological advances for supreme fit, our unwavering commitment is to furnish you with the means and assistance to traverse life with revitalised vigour.
Treating any Musculoskeletal Conditions
Orthotic intervention can help with a variety of musculoskeletal (MSK) issues. Here are some common MSK conditions where orthotics may be beneficial:
1. Foot-related problems: Orthotics can address conditions such as plantar fasciitis (pain in around the heel of the foot), flat feet, high arches, bunions, heel pain, metatarsalgia (forefoot pain), and Achilles tendonitis.
2. Ankle instability: Orthotic ankle braces can provide stability and support to individuals with weak or unstable ankles, reducing the risk of sprains and enhancing proprioception.
3. Knee pain: Orthotics can help alleviate knee pain caused by conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome, osteoarthritis of the knee (wear and tear), or improper alignment of the lower limbs.
4. Hip and pelvic issues: Orthotics may assist in correcting pelvic tilt, improving alignment, and reducing pain associated with conditions like hip bursitis or iliotibial band syndrome.
5. Lower back pain: Orthotic devices, including shoe inserts or customised back braces, can help improve spinal alignment, alleviate lower back pain, and provide support during activities.
6. Sports-related injuries: Athletes often benefit from orthotic intervention to address overuse injuries, stress fractures, shin splints, and other sports-related MSK conditions.
7. Arthritis and joint pain: Orthotics can provide cushioning and support to joints affected by arthritis, reducing pain and improving mobility.
It’s important to note that the appropriateness and effectiveness of orthotics depend on individual circumstances.
Treating Neurological Conditions
Orthotic interventions can be beneficial for individuals with many neurological conditions by providing support, stability, and assistance with mobility. Here are some examples of how orthotics can help in neurological conditions:
1. Stroke: Orthotic devices, such as ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) these can be custom designed or premade. They can aid individuals with stroke-related foot drop by supporting the foot and ankle, stretching the muscles, controlling any increase in muscle tone, improving gait patterns, and reducing the risk of tripping or falling.
2. Multiple sclerosis (MS): Orthotics can assist with MS-related gait abnormalities and weakness by providing stability, improving balance, and reducing fatigue during walking.
3. Cerebral palsy (CP): Individuals with CP may benefit from orthotics to enhance alignment, control spasticity, and improve mobility. AFOs, knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs), or upper limb orthoses can be used to aid in gait and function.
4. Spinal cord injury (SCI): Orthotic devices like spinal brace can provide stability, support, and promote proper spinal alignment for individuals with SCI, enhancing their sitting posture and overall comfort.
5. Parkinson’s disease: Orthotic interventions, such as shoe inserts, can assist in improving gait patterns, reducing freezing of gait episodes, and providing sensory cues to facilitate mobility for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
6. Peripheral neuropathy: Orthotics can help individuals with peripheral neuropathy by providing cushioning, redistributing pressure, and reducing the risk of foot ulcers or injuries.
It’s important to note that orthotic interventions for neurological conditions should be tailored to each individual’s needs.
Why use Orthotics?
Orthotic intervention is an important part of a multi-disciplinary approach to rehabilitation. At LEWis BRAND Orthotics we find that orthotic provision, particularly if done early, can have a significant impact on the clinical outcomes of the clients we treat.
Often a small change to the positioning of a body part or walking pattern can make a tremendous difference to the speed of rehabilitation and return to normal activity.
We believe that the user needs to be at the centre of the decision making and it is important that you understand how the suggested orthotic device(s) works and what they can do for you. There are often multiple options to suit different activities and we will take time to discuss these in detail.