Orthotic Services
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Overview
Orthotic Services at The Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre (TOHRC) provide custom-made braces (called orthoses) for people with bone, joint or nerve-related conditions.
These braces help support the body and improve movement, making everyday activities easier.
Who we serve
We have extensive experience working with both adults and children who have conditions such as:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Stroke (CVA).
- ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).
- Polio.
- Diabetic nerve damage.
- Cerebral palsy.
- Spina bifida.
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Muscular dystrophy.
- Arthritis.
- Idiopathic scoliosis.
- Plagiocephaly (a condition that affects head shape).
When working with each patient, our goal is to design braces that are both effective and innovative. We use the latest technology and research to create solutions that fit the patient’s lifestyle and meet their medical needs.
Team
The Orthotic Services department is nationally accredited by the Canadian Board of Certified Prosthetists and Orthotists. We are proud to offer high-quality care through a skilled team that includes:
- Certified orthotists, who assess, design and fit custom braces.
- Registered orthotic technicians, who build the devices.
Our orthotists work closely with patients and their health-care team — including doctors, physiotherapists and occupational therapists — to create the best orthotic solutions for each person’s needs.
We have four certified staff members who specialize in both adult and pediatric orthotic care.
All of our clinicians are also registered as orthotic authorizers with the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP), which helps patients access funding for their devices.
Cost and coverage
In Ontario, the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) helps cover part of the cost for eligible orthotic devices. Anyone with a valid OHIP card can apply for ADP funding.
We also provide services for individuals covered by:
Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)
Non-Insured Health Benefits Program (NIHB)
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
Social services
Many private health insurance plans also offer partial coverage for orthotic devices.
Patients are responsible for checking with their insurance provider to confirm what services are covered. We will go over all available funding options during your initial assessment visit.
Making an appointment
We serve anyone who has orthotic-related needs. A prescription from a physician is required. The patient, the patient’s caregiver or the patient’s health-care practitioner can call to make an appointment with an orthotist for assessment.
Most people will need three to four appointments, depending on how complex the orthosis (brace) is.
At your first visit, the orthotist will do a full assessment, which may include a gait analysis to see how you walk. If a custom brace is needed, a cast or mould will be taken.
During the second appointment, the orthotist will check the fit, function and comfort of the brace before giving it to you.
After you have worn the brace for two to three weeks, you will return for a follow-up to make sure it’s working well and not causing any skin issues.
Additional appointments can be scheduled if adjustments or repairs are needed.
Contact us
The Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre
613-737-7350 ext. 75314
505 Smyth Road
Room 1209
Ottawa, ON K1H 8M2