Orthotics and prosthetics are both types of medical devices used to improve mobility and physical function in people with musculoskeletal conditions or injuries, but they have some important differences.
Orthotics refer to devices that are designed to support or modify the structure and function of the body’s musculoskeletal system. They are usually used to correct alignment problems, prevent or manage injuries, or relieve pain. Orthotics can include things like shoe inserts, braces, splints, or other types of supportive devices that are worn on the outside of the body.
Prosthetics, on the other hand, are devices that are designed to replace a missing or damaged body part. They are usually used to restore function to a body part that has been lost due to injury, disease, or congenital defects. Prosthetics can include things like artificial limbs, joints, or other structures that are implanted in the body.
In summary, orthotics are devices used to support or modify the function of the musculoskeletal system, while prosthetics are devices used to replace missing or damaged body parts.
