1. Core Function: Immobilization and Restraint

This is the most fundamental function of orthotics. By limiting abnormal and harmful movement of joints or body parts, they provide a stable healing environment for damaged tissue (such as fractures, ligament tears, and postoperative wounds).

An analogy is: applying a cast to a broken limb, but medical orthotics are generally lighter, adjustable, and removable.

2. Core Function: Correction and Protection

They are used to correct or prevent body deformities and improve abnormal mechanical structures.

Application Scenarios:

Scoliosis: Specific spinal orthotics are used to halt the progression of scoliosis.

Foot Deformities: For children with splayed/bowed feet or flat feet, orthotics such as insoles or shoes are used for mechanical guidance and correction.

Bow Legs: Intervention and correction are performed during growth and development.

3. Core Function: Support and Pressure Relief

They use external forces to share or transfer the load borne by a particular part of the body, alleviating pain and increasing stability.

Application Scenarios:

Lumbar Disc Herniation: A waist brace or lumbar orthosis can reduce pressure on the lumbar spine and relieve pain caused by nerve compression.

Knee Arthritis: A knee orthosis can redirect force and reduce pressure on the side with more severe wear.

Rotator Cuff Injury: A shoulder orthosis can provide support and prevent the weight of the arm from aggravating the injury.

4. Rehabilitation and Functional Assistance

During rehabilitation, orthoses can help patients achieve safe, controlled movements and gradually restore function.

Application Scenarios:

Postoperative Rehabilitation: For example, after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, an adjustable knee brace allows the doctor to define a safe range of motion.

Nerve Injury: For example, after a stroke, a wrist-hand orthosis can be used to maintain hand function, prevent muscle contracture, and assist with movements such as grasping.

5. Prevention and Protection

In high-risk sports or occupations, orthoses can help prevent injuries.

Application Scenarios:

Athletes: Use protective braces (such as protective socks for football players and ankle braces for basketball players) to prevent sprains.

Workers who engage in heavy manual labor: Use waist belts or waist braces to provide core support when lifting heavy objects and prevent back injuries.