Orthotics – Patient Information

Becoming a patient

  • A referral is needed to become a patient in the Prosthetics & Orthotics department at HHS
  • Please contact your physician or general practitioner for a referral

Directions

  • 325 Wellington St. North, Hamilton ON L8L 0A4
  • Located across the street from Hamilton General Hospital
  • Paid parking is available on site
  •  Once inside:
    • Walk through main entrance
    • Look left
    • Enter double doors labelled Prosthetics & Orthotics Department
    • Check in at reception desk to the left

Referrals

  • Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O) Referral Form
  • Referral form/submission information for physicians (number to fax referrals to)
  • The prosthetics department receives the majority of new referrals from the Amputee Outpatient Clinic located at the Regional Rehab Centre
    • Prosthetic delivery in Ontario is primarily supported through Assistive Devices Program (ADP) funding
    • The funding model for prosthetic care is based on the clinic delivery model which requires the amputee to be assessed by a specialist and the rehabilitation team in the same place at the same time

What to expect at your appointment

Initial Assessment 

  • A clinician (registered Orthotist) will assess the patient’s needs
  • A gait analysis may be conducted, in which a clinician will watch the patient walk 
  • A physical examination, including taking measurements, will take place

Casting 

  • Limb(s) may be casted to create a custom fit for new device
  • A serial cast may be used to gently stretch a patient’s limb(s)

3D Scanning

  • For helmets and spine correcting devices a scan is taken to create a custom fit device

Fitting 

  • After the device has been produced, the device will be adjusted to create a perfect fit
  • The patient will try on the device and evaluate its performance and level of comfort
  • Any necessary adjustments will be made at this point 

Follow-Up

  • A follow-up appointment is used to ensure the device is functioning properly and to fix any issues the patient may have 
  • At any point a patient can request a follow-up appointment if they are experiencing issues with their device

What to do when you take your device home

  • Closely follow care and cleaning instructions that have been provided to you by your Prosthetist/Orthotist
  • Inspect for signs of wear on a regular basis 

When to come back

Please contact us for a follow-up appointment when:

  • Your device is no longer fitting you
  • Your device has been damaged and is in need of repair
  • You are experiencing any discomfort or skin irritation as a result of wearing your device
  • Your device no longer meets your needs