Orthoses (Braces)
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 University of Michigan Health is one of the few University based facilities in the country that offer comprehensive in-house orthotic services.
Our Approach
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 Orthotics and Prosthetics Center is accredited by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics, Inc.
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.
Appointment Information
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.
Conditions
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 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.
Additional Locations:
Brighton Center for Specialty Care – Orthotics & Prosthetics
Entrance 1, Level 1
7500 Challis Rd.
Brighton, MI 48116-9416
Northville Health Center – Orthotics & Prosthetics
Floor 1
39901 Traditions Dr.
Northville, MI 48168-9493
Locations
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Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic | Eisenhower Corporate Park 2850 S Industrial Hwy Ste 400
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-6796Get Directions
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