Orthosis
Pronunciation: or-THOH-sis
An externally applied device designed to support, align, prevent, or correct musculoskeletal deformities or to improve the function of movable body parts.
Full Definition
An orthosis (plural: orthoses) is a custom-made or prefabricated external device applied to the body to modify structural and functional characteristics of the musculoskeletal or neuromuscular system. In rehabilitation medicine, orthoses are commonly prescribed for conditions such as foot drop, scoliosis, or post-stroke upper limb weakness. Editors must distinguish between orthosis (the device) and prosthesis (a device replacing a missing body part). Abbreviations such as AFO (ankle-foot orthosis), KAFO (knee-ankle-foot orthosis), and TLSO (thoracolumbosacral orthosis) are standard and should be expanded on first use.
Usage
Usage note: Plural is 'orthoses,' not 'orthosises.' Do not confuse with 'prosthesis,' which replaces an absent body part rather than supporting an existing one.
In Context
- "The patient was fitted with an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) to manage foot drop following stroke." — Prosthetics and orthotics prescription
- "A thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) was prescribed to stabilise the thoracic spine during recovery." — Spinal rehabilitation care plan