Orthoses (Braces)

An orthosis is a device designed to improve biomechanical function, encourage proper joint alignment or to protect an existing limb. The Orthotics & Prosthetics Center at the University of Michigan is one of the few University based facilities in the country that offer comprehensive in-house orthotic services. We assess your needs and custom design orthoses to fit your activity level and lifestyle.  When appropriate we utilize CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) to quickly and efficiently design and fabricate orthoses.  The University of Michigan Orthotics and Prosthetics Center is accredited by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics, Inc.

Orthoses are used to treat many conditions such as:

  • Foot pain
  • Leg or foot deformities
  • Fracture management
  • Scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
  • Postsurgical stabilization
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Contracture management (decreased joint range of motion)
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
  • Polio
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Neuromuscular weakness
  • Brachial plexus injuries
  • Nerve injuries
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Plagiocephaly (cranial asymmetry or abnormal head shape)
  • Burn Management
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Muscular Dystrophy

We provide both custom fit and off-the-shelf orthotic devices for the treatment of a wide array of bracing needs ranging from cranial shaping helmets for infants to spinal bracing, upper and lower extremity orthoses and custom-made shoes.

Orthotics Services

  • Biomechanical evaluation
  • Evaluation, design, fabrication and fitting of custom orthotic devices
  • Orthotic use and care education
  • Follow-up care

Our team of orthotic specialists closely observe, examine and evaluate your needs according to your medical history and general physical condition. From this assessment, we design and fabricate an orthosis based on your needs, prescription and functional abilities.

During your first visit, we may take measurements and/or an impression for use in the design and fabrication of your orthosis.  A fitting will be scheduled within a few weeks of your initial visit.  During the fitting your orthosis may be further customized to ensure optimal fit and function.

Our outpatient center offers free parking and is conveniently located in Ann Arbor, just minutes from I-94 and US-23.  If you are in need of wheelchair support, please call ahead so we can best serve you. Most of our orthotics and prosthetics services require a prescription however, some walk-in services are available. Please call ahead so we can offer the appropriate service in a timely manner. 

Team Members

  • Alicia Baxter, CPO
  • Eric Broekhuizen, CO
  • Megan Christ, CPO
  • Megan Diemer, CPO
  • Marilyn Haubenstricker, CO
  • Martin Huebner, CPO
  • Molly LaFave, CPO
  • Ammanath Peethambaran, MS, CO, FAAOP
  • Sara Pschigoda Wagner, MSPO, CPO
  • Jennifer Richards, CPO
  • Alex Shimkus, CPO, FAAOP
  • Molly Steinbrunner, CPO
  • Gregory Vessels, CPO
  • Adam Watson, CPO
  • Jeffrey Wensman, BSME, CPO
  • Heather Wood, CPO

Make an Appointment

To schedule an appointment, call the Orthotics & Prosthetics Call Center at (734) 973-2400.

For appointments with our physicians or more information about our clinics, please contact our Rehabilitation Medicine call center at 734-936-7175 or visit our Make an Appointment with Rehabilitation Medicine page.