Orthopedic devices such as supports and orthotics are extremely effective in augmenting other courses of treatment or therapy that your doctor prescribes. Orthotics have even been proven to stabilize and immobilize affected joints or limbs in people with paralysis. Orthotics for users with paralysis – for example, ankle-foot orthotics or knee-ankle-foot orthotics such as the Ottobock FreeWalk – are made to order by O&P professionals and are an ideal long-term solution for the treatment of individuals with complete or partial paralysis of one or both legs. These orthotics help people regain maximum freedom of movement despite their limitations.

When developing new products, Ottobock liaises closely with renowned O&P professionals, doctors, and therapists. Our aim is to create orthotics and supports for everyday life that are as easy as possible to use. For this reason, we focus not only on durability but also on developing comfortable products with skin-friendly materials that are easy to use. Thanks to their perfect balance of innovation and functionality, our products are exceptionally effective for people who have impairments affecting the locomotor system. This is proven by numerous scientific studies as well.

Throughout the course of our history – spanning more than a century – Ottobock has consistently focused on improving human mobility. Our entire product portfolio is geared towards restoring mobility for people with disabilities, supporting existing functions, easing strain, and significantly relieving pain. So if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, don’t delay – find out more about your treatment options with Ottobock orthotics and reclaim as much of your quality of life as possible.

By definition, supports and orthotics are medical devices that support and protect your locomotor system. They are generally prescribed by a doctor to treat injuries and illnesses of the locomotor system or supporting structures. They support the healing process and improve mobility in people with physical disabilities. Orthotics aim to stabilize, immobilize and relieve strain on the affected joints. They also help people to perform movements correctly. This prevents or counteracts malpositions or excessive strain on a certain area and ensures that limb mobility is corrected. In the case of permanent physical disabilities, an orthotic is intended to help maintain functionality in the affected body area as well as prevent or relieve pain.

Orthoses and supports are worn directly on the part of the body affected by pain or other symptoms. Depending on the design, a variety of mechanisms can be used to hold them in place, including straps, hook-and-loop closures, press buttons and drawstrings. Many orthopaedic devices can be put on by the user without outside help. In order to prevent circulatory disorders, orthoses and supports should always be optimally adjusted to the user to ensure they fit perfectly. A good fit is important not just to make the orthopaedic device as comfortable as possible but also to ensure it can actually perform its required function, whether this is correcting a malposition or improving the mobility of a limb. For this reason, orthopaedic devices should always be chosen and used in consultation with your doctor and with an O&P professional.