Prosthetics, orthotics, and assistive devices. 1. General concepts

This self-directed learning module highlights the general concepts and new advances in the area of orthotics and prosthetics. This general overview is part of the chapter on prosthetics, orthotics, and assistive devices for the Self-Directed Medical Knowledge Program Study Guide for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This section contains essential information on spinal, lower and upper limb orthotics, lower and upper limb prosthetics, juvenile prosthetics, kinesiology, motion analysis, and assistive devices such as canes and crutches. This article establishes a foundation on which the second, third, and fourth articles of this chapter will build. The three articles to follow review newer developments in specialized seating and assistive devices, prosthetics, and the orthotic management of selected disorders.