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Prosthetists and orthotists assist patients with disabilities by providing custom prosthetic and orthopedic devices. They assess patients’ needs, take detailed measurements, and make adjustments as necessary. Advanced technology, such as myoelectric joints, is transforming the field. Ongoing care and adjustments are necessary for optimal function.
A prosthetist or orthotist is a healthcare professional who provides assistance to patients with disabilities resulting in the partial or complete absence of a limb or a serious impairment that requires a prosthetic or orthopedic device. These impairments may be due to injury or the patient may have suffered from a disabling illness or birth defect. A prosthesis is an artificial device that replaces an absent limb, restoring mobility to a patient lost due to impairment. An orthotic is a device, like a brace, that supports and strengthens a compromised limb.
A prosthodontist first meets with patients to assess their individual needs. They will check each patient’s muscle development, range of motion, joint stability, and the overall skin and health condition of the area where the prosthetic device will be attached. This helps determine the best design and materials to use to create a custom device for each patient. A custom design is required to ensure maximum comfort, strength and support for each specific case.
Prosthodontists must take very accurate and detailed measurements and impressions. They make mockups of their designs and continue to fit and measure a patient as the device takes shape. The prosthetist builds and assembles each prosthesis and then works with the patient to make any necessary adjustments. Once the device is complete, the prosthetist will use splints or any necessary compression devices to prepare the fixation areas. The prosthetist should provide detailed instructions on how the prosthesis works, and then the patient and prosthetist work together to create a plan of care.
The work doesn’t end when the device is finally finished and working. Patients must continue to meet with the prosthetist for an ongoing period as they learn to use the prosthesis and work with the prosthetist to make adjustments and modifications as their gait improves or their muscles strengthen and movements change. The time between the initial meeting and the full function can be lengthy, but it is very rewarding for both patient and prosthetist.
Advanced technology has transformed the prosthetic and orthopedic professions into a growing and expanding world of opportunity. Myoelectric joints and computer imaging are two of the advances that researchers continue to explore. A myoelectric prosthesis uses electromyography (EMG) to allow a patient’s muscles to send signals to the prosthetic device. This allows for greater control and movement and, as technology advances, the ability of the prosthetist to provide the patient with the best possible range of motion and mobility.
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