The Orthotics Department helps treat and rehabilitate patients by providing orthoses that support movement, correct deformities and relieve discomfort.

As one of the largest in-house Orthotics Services in the UK, we offer ongoing maintenance, repair, re-assessment and review once an orthosis has been supplied. Orthoses may be custom-made or provided from a range of ready-to-use devices.

Who are Orthotics for

Orthotic devices are for people of all ages who need extra support, correction or protection due to problems affecting their muscles, joints or bones. They can help improve movement, reduce pain, aid recovery after injury or surgery, and prevent future complications. 

How to access Orthotic care

You can access Orthotic care for free on the NHS.

• Ask your GP surgery if they can refer you directly to Orthotics - they can advise if this is possible and how to do it

• Book an appointment with your GP to discuss your problem and whether an orthosis might help - they may be able to refer you to an Orthotist

• Some Orthotic services also offer telephone or video consultations, and group clinics may be available for common conditions

Available treatments

Head

Head orthotic treatments involve the use of custom-made helmets and protective headgear to support a range of medical needs. These include shaping the skull in infants with plagiocephaly, providing protection after craniotomies, and reducing injury risk in individuals with epilepsy during seizures. 

Foot and ankle

Foot and ankle orthotic treatments focus on improving alignment, reducing pain and preventing complications. This includes insoles for musculoskeletal issues, custom footwear for structural support, diabetic insoles and footwear to prevent pressure-related injuries, and AFOs to support mobility in case of weakness, instability, or neurological conditions.

Spine

Neck and spine orthotic treatments use braces and supports to stabilise, correct or protect the spine and cervical region. They are commonly used for managing spinal fractures, supporting recovery after surgery, correcting or slowing progression of scoliosis and providing postural support for conditions that affect alignment or muscle control.

Hip and knee

Hip and knee orthotic treatments involve the use of braces and supports to aid stability, alignment, and joint function. This includes hip bracing for developmental conditions or post-surgical recovery, knee bracing for ligament laxity and osteoarthritis management and KAFOs to support mobility in individuals with muscle weakness or neurological conditions. 

Continued care and maintenance

After your initial course of treatment, you will usually be discharged under the Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) protocol. This allows you to re-access our service directly if your needs change, without waiting for a new referral from your GP.

We are also committed to supporting you long-term by maintaining the Orthotic devices we provide. Specialist footwear and insoles can often be refurbished or, when necessary, fully replaced. Splints such as AFOs can also be refurbished when they become worn. Larger devices like KAFOs require a routine annual inspection and refurbishment to ensure they remain safe, effective and comfortable. 

The team aim to make sure your orthotic care continues to meet the highest standards, even after your initial treatment has ended.

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