Our Process
-
Consult
Finding the right solution begins with a thorough consultation and assessment. We take a cast or scan of the residual limb for a prosthesis, or the body part that needs support or correction for an orthosis.
-
Design
Using the cast or scan, we create a physical plaster of paris mould and/or generate a CAD mould which is then carefully re-worked to create a custom design for a prosthesis or orthotic.
-
Manufacture
The prosthesis or orthotic is produced for trial (e.g. a test socket) or permanent use using state-of-the-art equipment, components and lightweight, flexible, skin-friendly materials.
-
Fitting
Fit, comfort and function are vital. Typically more than one fitting is required to custom fit a prosthesis or orthosis, and it is standard practice for a patient to trial a prosthesis before the definitive prosthesis/orthosis is completed.
-
Ongoing Care
Prosthetic and orthotic devices need to be serviced to maintain effective function, and adjustments carried out to accommodate physical changes and optimise fit.
Custom Children’s AFO’S and Orthoses
Advanced 3D-Printed & Custom-Made Children’s Orthoses
Ability Prosthetics & Orthotics provides expert paediatric orthotic care in Brisbane and Toowoomba, helping children get the support they need to live happy, healthy and active lives.
Our experienced Prosthetists and Orthotists take the time to understand each child’s medical history, development, movement, activities and individual needs. We also listen to parents and carers to understand what everyday life looks like for their child, from school and play to sport and family activities.
Our goal is to provide a comfortable, practical orthotic solution that supports your child and fits into their everyday life.
Custom Children’s Orthotics
We provide custom-made paediatric orthotics for children of all ages. Every orthosis is designed around the child’s individual anatomy, functional requirements and goals.
Our paediatric orthotic services include:
- Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs)
- Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses (KAFOs)
- Fracture bracing
- Protective Helmets
Orthoses may be used to provide support, assist positioning and alignment, improve stability, protect joints, assist movement or support rehabilitation, depending on the child’s individual needs.
Advanced 3D-Printed Piro Orthoses
We are proud to now offer advanced 3D-printed Piro orthoses, alongside our established range of custom in-house manufactured orthoses.
Using digital design and advanced 3D-printing technology, our clinicians can create highly customised orthotic solutions designed around a child’s individual shape and requirements.
Depending on the child, 3D-printed orthoses can offer advantages such as customised fit, reduced weight, ventilation and design flexibility.
Importantly, 3D printing is another option within our clinical toolkit. Our Orthotists assess each child individually and determine whether a 3D-printed Piro orthosis, traditionally manufactured orthosis or another solution is most appropriate.
In-House Manufacturing
At Ability Prosthetics & Orthotics, we manufacture our orthoses in-house.
This allows our Prosthetists, Orthotists and manufacturing team to work closely together throughout the design, manufacture, fitting and adjustment process.
Combining our established in-house manufacturing with advanced 3D-printed Piro orthoses gives families access to a wider range of personalised orthotic options.
Designed for Growing Children
Children grow and develop quickly, so their orthotic requirements can change over time.
We provide ongoing assessment and support to ensure your child’s orthosis continues to fit comfortably and meet their changing needs. Adjustments, modifications or replacement may be required as your child grows.
We also consider practical factors such as footwear, school, sport, play and everyday activities when designing an orthosis.
A Child-Friendly Approach
We understand that visiting a clinic can be a new experience for children. Our friendly team takes the time to make appointments relaxed, positive and age-appropriate.
Our clinics include dedicated play areas with toys and games, helping children feel comfortable while we assess, fit and adjust their orthotic devices.
Why Choose Ability Prosthetics & Orthotics?
- Experienced Prosthetists and Orthotists
- Custom-made children’s orthotics
- Advanced 3D-printed Piro orthoses
- Established in-house manufacturing
- Child-friendly clinics
- Personalised fitting and adjustments
- Ongoing support as children grow
We are committed to providing orthotic care that support children not just in the clinic, but in the activities and experiences that matter most to them.
Prosthetics Funding
In a nutshell, the following categories apply to prosthetic funding:
- If you lost your limb due to disease or illness, you will most likely be covered by the Queensland Government’s Artificial Limb Service (QALS) or the NDIS if you are under the age of 65.
- If you lost your limb in an accident at home or during recreation, and there is no compensating body, then the public health system or the National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS) will cover the cost of the prosthetic limb/s. Note: The NIIS is still in development and in the meantime, funding will be provided by the NDIS.
- If your amputation was due to trauma, such as a motor vehicle or workplace accident, and compensation is identified as a possibility, the insuring organisation, e.g. National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIISQ) or WorkCover, will most likely fund your prosthesis and medical care as part of your rehabilitation.
- Veterans who either lost their limb as a result of injuries received while serving in the Australian Army, Navy or Airforce, or who have a Gold Card, will have their prosthesis paid for by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) or the Defence Force.
- Most Private Health Insurance companies do not allocate funding for prosthetics, however it is worth checking with your insurer if you are uncertain, as they may cover partial costs.
Talk to your Prosthetist for more information.
Orthotics Funding
In Queensland the following options are available for orthotics funding:
- Queensland Health’s Medical Aid Subsidy Scheme (MASS) – this is a subsidy scheme for orthotics and therefore the patient is required to pay any shortfall.
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – DVA pay for orthotics for eligible serving and former Australian Defence Force members. An out-of-pocket contribution may be applicable, depending on the type of device required.
- Private Health – Most private health insurance companies do not allocate funding for orthotics, however it is worth checking with your insurer if you are uncertain, as they may cover partial costs.
- NDIS – If you are under 65, have a permanent disability and require support for the rest of your life, the NDIS may cover the cost of orthotics.
- National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIISQ) or WorkCover – If your injury was due to trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or workplace accident, and compensation is identified as a possibility, the insuring organisation (NIISQ or WorkCover) will most likely fund your orthoses and medical care as part of your rehabilitation.
Talk to your Orthotist for more information.
The Australian Government's National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support to people with disability, their families and carers. Under the NDIS, all Australians under the age of 65 who have a disability that is likely to be permanent and significant are provided with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to live an ordinary life. This includes prosthetics and, in some cases, orthotics.
These are the steps involved in becoming an NDIS participant and getting funding approved for a prosthesis:
- 1
Contact NDIS
and request a NDIS registration form. Once you have received the form, complete it and return it to the NDIS.
- 2
Arrange your planning meeting
Once your registration form has been submitted, the NDIS will contact you to arrange a planning meeting with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC).
- 3
Meet with your prosthetist
IMPORTANT: Before your meeting with the NDIS' Local Area Coordinator, make sure you meet with your prosthetist. Your prosthetist will advise you of the funding required. The goals you set for yourself in your NDIS plan will determine the type of prosthesis NDIS may fund.
- 4
Meet with your Local Area Coordinator
You then meet with your NDIS Local Area Coordinator and develop a proposed plan requesting the funding and correct allocation required for the life of your plan (usually 12-months).
- 5
Visit your prosthetist for a functional assessment
Once you received a copy of your plan from NDIS, visit your Prosthetist for a functional assessment and quote that he will submit for approval to NDIS. At this point, there will be funding available for consumables like liners/socks to see you through until the approval comes through.
- 6
NDIS approval
Once NDIS approval is received, you can commence the process of having a prosthesis designed, manufactured and fitted.
Important Links
Here are some links to associations, organisations which support people requiring prosthetics and orthotics.
- Paralympics Australia
- Ottobock (Supplier)
Funding Bodies
- Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (Queensland Health)
- Queensland Artificial Limb Service (Queensland Health)
- NDIS
- Department of Veterans Affairs
Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics is a registered member of the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA), NDIS, Queensland Artificial Limb Service (QALS) and Department of Veterans Affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of orthotics for kids?
Orthotics offer numerous benefits for children, such as providing support for upper and lower limb instabilities, pain relief, and correction of biomechanical issues and foot deformities. An Orthotist can prescribe the appropriate type of orthotics based on the child’s condition.
Custom orthotics for children are designed to suit each child’s unique needs. This helps them to thrive physically, emotionally and socially. Our orthotics provide solutions that help children gain independence and live life to the fullest.
Can orthotics be used for sports activities?
Yes, properly prescribed orthotics can be used during sports activities. It can provide support to help with any underlying foot or lower limb issues that could lead to injuries or discomfort when participating in sports.
We create the best orthotic devices for children, specifically intended for use during sports and physical activity. These provide extra support and are made of durable materials that can handle high-impact activities.
Are orthotics painful for children to wear?
Orthotics shouldn’t be painful for children to wear. Some discomfort may arise when the child begins to wear orthotics, especially for the first time. However, this should gradually subside as the child becomes accustomed to the orthotics.
If there is any ongoing pain or discomfort, reach out to your Orthotist to ensure the orthotics are benefiting the child and not resulting in unnecessary discomfort. By working closely with your Orthotist, orthotics for a child can become as comfortable and natural-feeling as possible.
How much do orthotics for children cost?
In general, custom-made orthotics are more expensive than off-the-shelf orthotics. The price of custom-made orthotics for children can vary depending on several factors, including the type of orthotic, the material used, and additional features. Pricing can be discussed with the Orthotist, and this consultation is usually free at Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics.
How often should children’s orthotics be replaced?
The frequency of replacing children’s orthotics can vary due to factors including the type of orthotics prescribed and the child’s growth rate. A review of the orthotics should occur at least every six months. The Orthotist will determine the continued suitability based on the size and wear and tear on the orthotics.
Caring for children requires ongoing monitoring to ensure the best outcomes. We provide adjustable orthotics for children and necessary replacement recommendations when needed.