Orthotist

AFO for a child. It can be used to support an isolated foot drop by blocking the plantar flexion with all negative consequences. (Designation of the orthosis according to the body parts included in the orthosis fitting: ankle and foot, English abbreviation: AFO for ankle-foot orthoses) The photo does not show the most modern manufacturing technology. Such orthoses were also called Hinged-AFO or orthopedic splint.

An orthotist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the provision of orthoses. An orthotist has an overall responsibly of orthotics treatment, who can supervise and mentor the practice of other personnel.^[1] They are clinicians trained to assess the needs of the user, prescribe treatment, determine the precise technical specifications of orthotic devices, take measurements and image of body segments, prepare model of the evaluation, fit devices and evaluate treatment outcome.^[1] In the United States, orthotists work by prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Physical therapists are not legally authorized to prescribe orthoses in the U.S. In the U.K., orthotists will often accept open referrals for orthotic assessment without a specific prescription from doctors or other healthcare professionals.^[2]

^ ^a ^b "Standards for Prosthetics and Orthotics". World Health Organization. 2017. Archived from the original on November 12, 2017. Retrieved April 30, 2020.
^ "Standards of proficiency – Prosthetists / orthotists" (PDF). Health and Care Professions Council. London. August 2013. Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 October 2013. Retrieved 5 October 2013.

[:0-1] "Standards for Prosthetics and Orthotics". World Health Organization. 2017. Archived from the original on November 12, 2017. Retrieved April 30, 2020.

[2] "Standards of proficiency – Prosthetists / orthotists" (PDF). Health and Care Professions Council. London. August 2013. Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 October 2013. Retrieved 5 October 2013.

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