Orthotics
An orthotist assesses, designs, and manufactures orthotics (braces or splints) for all parts of the body. For children with SMA, a splint may help maintain positioning of a limb (lower leg or wrist) or may support trunk posture, as in a spinal brace.
Below is a list of frequently asked questions about orthotists and your appointments with them. Click on each question or row to read more. If you have further questions, please speak with your neuromuscular care team at your local clinic or hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An orthotist assesses, designs, and manufactures orthotics (braces or splints) for all parts of the body. For children with SMA, an orthotic may be used to help maintain positioning of the;leg using an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) or knee splint and/or the spine with a spinal brace.
Some children and young people with SMA also require wrist and hand splints to help with hand and arm functioning. Hand and wrist splints tend to be made by occupational therapists rather than orthotists, however this may vary depending on your treatment center. You can discuss this with your therapy team.
Your child will have many appointments with physios, occupational therapists, and neurologists in the first few years after diagnosis. If your child needs support from an orthotic you can discuss the appropriate timing, and what sort of orthotics are suitable or required at each stage of their development, with your physio or OT.
You are always welcome to make an appointment with an orthotist to find out what might be involved. You can do this without a referral.
You will only be referred to an orthotist if your healthcare team feel it is necessary. Orthotics can help to position you lower leg to make walking or being positioned in standing easier, and can help support the spine. Orthotics can offer postural support for activity or while resting and can also be used to assist with positioning as part of a stretching program.
Always bring your orthoses to any appointments you have, even if they are only used at night-time or when you are stretching. That way, your orthoses can be checked for size, wear and tear, and whether they still fit well or need to be remade.
The NDIS allows you to choose an orthotist that best suits your needs. This may be an orthotics facility closer to home, or in a hospital on the same day as other appointments. As long as you are happy and confident with the orthotist’s skills and service, you can see a provider of your own choice. Do not feel guilty about asking for advice or opinions from other people you know who have used orthotics services.
Your child will be eligible for NDIS funding. You should advise your planner that your child will need new orthotics (for example a new pair of AFOs) every year for growth. Be sure to have them added to your child’s plan.
