Orthotics and Prosthetics (OP) practitioners combine academic knowledge coming from science, art and technical fields to fit, manufacture and repair of orthopedic braces (or orthoses) for a variety of people. Many individuals who work in the O&P industry were drawn towards it because of a personal injury or other direct experience related to orthodontics. O&P practitioners are also often referred to as podiatrists. Their primary role is to design, manufacture and repair appliances used to correct physical dysfunctions that affect the function of the bones, joints, tendons and muscles of the body. They can be found in general practice, family dentistry, military and hospitals.
The diabetic shoes they produce can restore strength, range of motion, functionality, fit, strength and symmetry to limbs that have been injured, altered or missing. An individual with arthritic conditions, spinal stenosis, muscular injuries, sickle cell disease, diabetes, stroke, multiple sclerosis and orthopedic conditions such as those related to spinal stenosis, may require the services of an orthodontist. The primary function of an orthodontist is to ensure that the patient's mouth, jaw and neck are aligned properly with respect to each other. He or she will evaluate whether corrective measures are needed for patients to maintain the alignment. The orthodontist will make recommendations about the types of braces or prosthetic devices to be used to correct deformities.
O&P practitioners may be employed by general practitioners or by private practices. They usually belong to a professional organization such as the American Academy of Pediatric Orthodontics. Education is a factor in becoming an orthodontist. Some states require practitioners to have formal education and training in podiatry, while others allow these practitioners to self-regulate. However, most states require that orthodontists complete a minimum number of hours of continuing education each year. The requirements for licensing vary from state to state.
In most cases, Advanced Kinematics orthotics and Prosthetics are using to correct conditions such as malocclusion, scoliosis, arthritic conditions and other musculoskeletal disorders. However, orthotics can also correct other problems such as joint pain and posture. O&P specialists are often referred to as orthodontists, dentists or dental specialists. Some of the conditions they specialize in include deep foot ulcers, bunions, corns and calluses, hammertoes, plantar warts and other similar conditions. In some cases, orthotics and prosthetics are using to promote weight loss, correct gait, prevent damage to the joints of the foot, increase muscle strength and help prevent falls.
A large portion of orthotic and prosthetic sales is to health insurance companies who cover the treatment of adults with chronic disorders. Often, orthotics and prosthetics used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery, help to speed recovery. For this reason, orthodontists and prosthetists often provide services to rehabilitative, medical facilities, intensive care units and hospice care.
As the use of orthotics and prostheses continues to grow, more techniques for their manufacture and more ways for their placement will be developed. Some of the most important advances in orthotics and prosthetic technology include Computer Aided Design (CAD). This technology allows prosthetic parts to be precisely placed in three-dimensional space, allowing orthotics and prosthetic parts to be made to exact specifications. Another major advancement in prosthetic devices is Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM). This technology allows manufacturers to create detailed, three-dimensional images of the new prosthesis so that fabrication teams can incorporate the new device right into an existing product. If you probably want to get more enlightened on this topic, then click on this related post: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prosthetist.