What does orthosis mean?
An orthosis is a medical device that supports, protects, or corrects part of the body affected by injury, weakness, or deformity. The best-known examples are foot and ankle orthoses, which can redistribute pressure, stabilize a joint, or improve walking. The word is related to orthotics, the professional practice of designing and fitting such devices, and orthopaedics, the branch of medicine concerned with bones, joints, and corrective treatment. Although “brace” is a more familiar general term, “orthosis” is more precise in clinical and therapeutic contexts. A doctor, podiatrist, orthotist, or physical therapist may recommend an orthosis after assessing a patient’s posture, movement, and specific needs. The term also refers, more generally, to the therapeutic use of corrective or supportive appliances.
nounA device or appliance used to support, protect, or correct a deformity or injury in the body, especially the foot or ankle. The term can also refer more broadly to the use of such devices in treatment.
- A supportive or corrective medical appliance, especially for the foot or ankle.
- The therapeutic use or application of a device that supports or corrects a bodily deformity.
"The therapist recommended a custom orthosis to support her injured foot."
"His orthosis helped relieve pressure on the injured heel."
"The clinician discussed whether an orthosis would improve the patient's gait."
The standard plural is orthoses, pronounced with the ending /oʊsiːz/.
"The clinic stocks several types of orthoses for foot support."
From the Greek roots for “straight” and “setting up,” an orthosis is a device that helps the body stand or move more comfortably.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does orthosis come from?
Orthosis comes from Greek orthōsis, a word associated with setting up, establishing, or straightening. It is related to the Greek root orthos, meaning “straight,” “upright,” or “correct.” The modern medical sense developed through the study and use of supportive devices that help correct bodily alignment and function.
Related word forms
How orthosis is actually used
The term is primarily medical and technical. In everyday use, it often refers to a foot or ankle insert, while the broader sense includes braces and other corrective devices.