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Orthotic Services at TOHRC specialize in providing custom orthotic devices (orthoses or braces) for individuals with orthopaedic and neurological disorders. Orthoses provide support and control to facilitate desired motion for improved function in daily activities.

We have extensive experience in treating adults and children with a variety of neuromuscular and orthopaedic conditions such as: multiple sclerosis, stroke (CVA), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), poliomyelitis, diabetic neuropathy, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, traumatic brain injury, muscular dystrophy, arthritis, idiopathic scoliosis and plagiocephaly.

Our Services

In working with the patient, our goal is to provide innovative and functional orthotic designs that incorporate new technologies and current research to best suit the patient’s lifestyle while meeting their clinical needs.

Our Team

Our department is a nationally accredited facility by the Canadian Board of Certified Prosthetists and Orthotists. The Orthotic Services employ the skills and expertise of certified orthotists and registered orthotic technicians. The orthotist works with the patient and their various other health-care professionals such as physicians, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, to assess, design and dispense the best orthotic solutions for the patient’s needs.  Registered technicians then fabricate the devices. We currently have four certified staff members who specialize in adult and pediatric orthotic care.  Our clinicians are registered as Orthotic Authorizers with the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP).

Making an Appointment

Orthotic Services provide assistance to any individual with orthotic-related needs. A prescription from a physician is required.  In Ontario, the Assistive Devices Program provides partial funding for ADP-eligible devices. Anyone with an OHIP card is eligible for ADP funding.

We also provide services for individuals who are insured by Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), Non-Insured Health Benefits Program NIHB, Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and social services. Private extended health insurance plans often provide partial funding for orthotic devices.

It is the responsibility of the patient to determine if their insurance plan will provide coverage for orthotic services. Details about funding options will be discussed during an initial assessment visit.

During the process, patients can expect the following:

• For most orthoses, three to four appointments are required depending on the complexity of the device. During the initial appointment, the orthotist will perform a comprehensive biomechanical assessment and gait analysis if necessary. A cast or mould may be taken at this time if a custom orthosis is to be fabricated.
• At the second appointment, the orthotist will ensure correct fit, function and comfort of the device before it is dispensed to the patient.
• Once the patient has had an opportunity to wear the device for two to three weeks, the patient will return for a follow-up appointment so the orthotist can ensure the orthosis is functioning as it should and that there are no skin problems.
• Other appointments are made as needed to address problems or make repairs.

Contact Us

Patients require a medical prescription to be assessed by our services. The patient, the patient’s caregiver or the patient’s health-care practitioner can call to make an appointment with an orthotist for assessment.

To make an appointment, call our receptionist at 613-737-7350, ext. 75314. If you have specific questions about orthotics, you may ask to speak to one of our clinical orthotists.

Our hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays). The office is closed for lunch between 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.  We offer service in both English and French.

The Orthotic Services is located in Room 1209 at TOHRC.

Last updated on: December 2nd, 2016