Introduction to Pediatric Orthotics

Course overview

This introductory course seeks to help PTs, OTs, other healthcare providers, and caregivers working with children understand the basic need for orthotic supports, various options available, and learn how to improve functional outcomes using orthoses. Attendees will examine the underlying biomechanical forces that contribute to musculoskeletal changes in growing children and learn how to use these same forces to correct/prevent destructive alignment for optimal development and function. Special considerations related to growth, diagnostic symptoms, and goals of the devices will be discussed. Examples of upper extremity, lower extremity and spinal orthoses will be shared, as well as suggestions to optimize utilization of orthoses in a family-friendly, collaborative way.