Orthosis
Pronunciation: or-THOH-sis
An externally applied device used to support, correct, or compensate for a weak or deformed body segment, as distinct from a prosthesis.
Full Definition
An orthosis is an externally worn device intended to modify the structural or functional characteristics of the neuromuscular and skeletal systems, rather than to replace a missing part. The plural form, 'orthoses,' is frequently misspelled as 'orthotics' in clinical documentation. Editors must not use 'orthosis' and 'prosthesis' interchangeably, as they describe fundamentally different devices. Orthoses are classified by anatomical region (e.g., ankle-foot orthosis, knee-ankle-foot orthosis) and function (static, dynamic, or hybrid).
Usage
Usage note: The plural is 'orthoses,' not 'orthotics.' 'Orthotics' refers to the field, not the devices. Avoid using 'orthotic' as a noun; prefer 'orthosis.'
In Context
- "The patient was prescribed a carbon-fibre ankle-foot orthosis to manage foot drop." — Physiotherapy discharge summary
- "The editor corrected 'orthotic' to 'orthosis' throughout the clinical trial report." — Editorial review note