Orthotics and Prosthetics

UMMC Orthopaedics' specialized orthotics and prosthetics division, located in the Clinical Sciences Building, evaluates, fabricates, and custom fits artificial limbs and orthopaedic braces for children and adults according to doctor’s prescription.

Comprehensive services include a state-of-the-art fabrication center featuring computer-aided manufacturing equipment and a skilled staff with more than 20 years’ experience dedicated to proper fitting, function, and appearance of each prosthesis and orthotic as well as outpatient and in-hospital consultation and fitting. UMMC’s specialists offer no-obligation consultations for amputees wanting to learn more about the program.

The orthotics and prosthetics department offers outpatient as well as in-hospital consultation and fitting. A diagnostic process has been developed using the latest computer-assisted design and manufacturing technology to create a high degree of comfort, function, and cosmetic appearance.

Orthotics

UMMC Orthopaedics' comprehensive orthotic services use biomechanical principles to minimize bracing and maximize comfort and function. The staff is well known for its experience with fitting complex spinal support devices as well as sophisticated lower limb braces. They also are skilled with sophisticated tools, including laser alignment, to evaluate and fine-tune the alignment of orthotic and prosthetic devices.

Prosthetics

The prosthetics division specializes in lightweight, high-performance upper and lower extremity prostheses. Specialists fit complicated cases for children and adults using the latest generation of computer-imaging and fabrication technology.

Our staff members are some of the most experienced in the country in using computer-assisted design and manufacture technology, a process that allows us to craft prostheses in a matter of hours instead of weeks and months. In most cases, patients are able to use a prosthesis the day of their first visit.

Services we offer

Bionics and microprocessor technology

Our program has extensive experience with microprocessor-controlled prostheses for upper and lower limb prostheses, for children and adults. We have a long history of fitting microprocessor-controlled knees, elevated vacuum suspension systems, and myoelectrically (electrical signals within the body) controlled elbows, wrists, and hands.

Neuroprosthetic services

UMMC’s certified clinical specialists provide the latest FDA-approved neuroprosthetic (electrical stimulation) devices. Ours is the only program in the state to provide neuroprosthetic therapy, providing a continuum of care from the acute hospital to the rehabilitation hospital and outpatient therapy, thanks to a team collaboration of doctors, nurses, therapists, and orthotists.

Cosmetic restorations

Some prefer a prosthesis that matches their limb shape and skin color as closely as possible. The UMMC program has a team of experts specialized in artistic restorations that match the patient’s natural appearance. Other patients, however, want to stand out and make a bold statement, and our team can provide a prosthesis that reflects their unique personality.

Upper extremity prostheses

The UMMC prosthetics staff has extensive experience in fitting patients with complex upper extremity prostheses. We have the resources and the inventory to test components on each patient to determine which system is best suited functionally for that individual.