What is an Orthosis?
Orthopaedic technology differentiates between the two classic fields of prosthetics and orthotics. While a prosthesis completely replaces a body part, an orthosis supports a body part or body function.
An orthosis can affect the structural and functional qualities of the neuromuscular and skeletal system. On a political level, the development of modern technologies for prostheses has been funded worldwide, especially during the major wars. The development of modern technologies for orthoses, in contrast to the development of prostheses, has never been the focus of public attention. This is also why an orthosis is often confused with a prosthesis.
What Is the Difference Between an Orthosis and a Brace?
In traditional orthotics, orthoses fulfil a mere supporting function. Orthoses provide stability and support the patient in regaining their lost mobility. Furthermore, they secure or relief pathologically affected parts. Thus, an ankle or knee orthosis is, for example, an appropriate treatment option after a ligament rupture.
In neurological indications with paralyses of the lower extremities, e.g. after a stroke, the main focus of classic orthotics is still on the stabilising function as well. In the past, an affected leg was therefore treated with a brace. A famous example of such a paralysis orthosis can be seen in the movie “Forrest Gump”. Sadly, this technological level still represents the prevalent form of treatment for patients with paralyses around the globe. For this form of orthotic treatment, the term “brace” is used instead of “orthosis” in everyday speech. This term implies that such a device merely stabilises the leg rather than (re-)activate its neurological and anatomical functions.
While “braces”, due to their traditional technology, poor functionality and little individualisation, have in the long run been replaced by wheelchairs, FIOR & GENTZ is vigorously dedicated to the field of individual, neurological orthotics since its foundation in 1997. The primary goal of neuro-orthotics within the framework of holistic therapy is the fast, targeted mobilisation and activation of the patient.