Orthotics

An Orthotist makes and fits orthoses (splints and braces) to provide support to those who need it due to injury, disease, nerve disorders or orthopaedic conditions.

We work closely with other teams within the hospital i.e., orthopaedics, neurosurgery, craniofacial, physiotherapy and more. Your child will see a specialised paediatric orthotist who will assess them and advise on the most suitable device.

After the assessment we take measurements or casts to provide accurately fitting devices for each individual patient. We do keep a limited number of devices in stock, which can be fitted to patients immediately, but most orthoses (devices) need to be specially made so further fitting appointments will be necessary.

We work within our outpatients departments as well as community school clinics

Conditions we treat:

Neurological conditions i.e. cerebral palsy

Muscular dystrophy

Spina bifida

Talipes

Development dislocation of the hip

Craniosynostosis

Orthopaedic traumas

Scoliosis

Genetic disorders

Hypermobility

Knee pain and conditions

Musculoskeletal conditions

And more!

Meet the team

Ian Spencer- Orthotics Manager/Senior Orthotist

Rebecca Graham- Principal Orthotist/ Advanced Ponseti Practitioner

Steve McKenna- Principal Orthotist

Bhavna Mehta- Orthotist

Ysabel Hinrichs- Orthotist

Christine Parry- Clerical Lead

Ellie Spencer- Clerical Administrator

Jenny Tyson- Clerical Administrator

Clinical outcomes

Case study for helmet therapy post craniofacial surgery for Craniosynostosis:

At 16 weeks Christopher had his endoscopic surgery for his metopic craniosynostosis. At first we were naturally extremely nervous and wondering had we made the right decision. Christopher and we got used to the helmet very quickly and was not an issue at all. Having his surgery at such a young age he didn’t know any different to wearing the helmet and it did not bother him at all, or us. The year went so quickly and now we have come out the other side and Christopher is helmet free we know we made the right decision. We are so happy and exceptionally pleased with the outcome of his head shape. Initially it was hard to imagine him wearing a helmet for a year but very quickly you become used to it and the daily break and cleaning of the helmet becomes routine.

Christophers head shape is perfect and totally exceeded our expectations, you would never know he had craniosynostosis. All the staff at Alder Hey where totally amazing and could not have been more helpful. Every single member of staff involved in Christophers journey really were so helpful and friendly and we want to thank them all for everything. Our monthly check-ups were really reassuring, and we are so glad we choose this path. – Mum

https://mobile.twitter.com/alderhey/status/1317148807029772294 – link to Alder Hey twitter page with story of Lewis; Everton fan of the year with Orthotist Rebecca Graham for fitting of his new Everton AFOs.