Our Orthotics Department provides orthoses to support movement, correct deformities and relieve discomfort. As one of the UK's largest inhouse services, we also offer ongoing maintenance, repair and reassessment. Devices may be custom-made or ready-to-use.

Devices may be custom-made or ready-to-use. 

All of our Orthotists are registered with the Health and Care Professional Council, our governing body, and work across three sites: RJAH, the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital. 

Who needs orthotics?

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 via the following methods through the NHS:

• Referral via your consultant

• Self referral - if you have been seen in Orthotics in the past three months

What to expect from you orthotics appointment

During your appointment, your Orthotist will work in partnership with you to develop your own individual treatment plan. The Orthotist will assess your condition, discuss your needs and determine the most suitable orthotic device. They may take measurements, make casts or try sample devices to ensure the right fit, before ordering your prescribed orthotic device to be fit at the next appointment. 

During the follow-up appointment, you will receive guidance on how to wear, care for, and adjust your orthosis, and follow-up appointments will be arranged as needed to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.

If you are attending for an issue relating to your legs/feet, it may be suitable to wear shorts or clothing that allows ease of access to that area. 

Continued care and maintenance

After your initial treatment, you will be discharged under the NHS Patient-Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) pathway for 3 months, allowing you to contact us directly without a new referral if your needs change.

We continue to support you by refurbishing or replacing orthotic devices as needed, including footwear, insoles, and splints, with larger devices like KAFOs reviewed annually to ensure they remain safe and comfortable. 

Done on Day (DoD)

When necessary, RJAH has facilities to do maintenance on orthotics on the same day as treatment, or if your orthotic requires urgent repair. Devices like KAFOs and CROW boots can be maintained onsite as needed.

DoDs must be arranged prior to arrival, unless otherwise indicated by your orthotist. Details of how to contact the department can be found here.

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