An orthosis is a medical device or apparatus used to provide support, control movement, correct deformities, or reduce pain. Orthoses are generally used on body parts such as feet, legs, arms, hands, spine or neck.

Orthoses are designed to improve individuals' quality of life and maintain their functional independence. An orthosis can consist of different materials (plastic, metal, rubber, etc.) and designs, depending on the individual's needs and specific situation.

Some common uses of orthoses include:

1. Limb Orthoses: These are orthoses used in extremity areas such as ankle, knee, hip, wrist, elbow or shoulder. For example, ankle braces used after an ankle sprain or knee orthoses used to support the knee joint of an individual with knee osteoarthritis.

2. Spine Orthoses: These are orthoses used for spine problems in the back or lumbar region. For example, spinal brace used in the case of scoliosis (curvature of the spine) or waist belts used to support the waist of an individual with a herniated disc.

3. Hand Orthoses: These are orthoses used for hand and wrist problems. For example, wrist splints used to support the wrist of an individual with carpal tunnel syndrome or hand splints used to support hand movements after a stroke.

4. Pediatric Orthoses: These are orthoses used in children. For example, ankle supports for walking problems in children or corsets and plates used for correction of spinal deformities.

Orthoses are evaluated and specially designed by a healthcare professional in accordance with the individual's needs and health status. It is used for purposes such as reducing pain, correcting deformity or providing protection while increasing the functional mobility of individuals. Proper use and regular follow-up checks are important, as it is designed specifically for each individual.

They support and protect the musculoskeletal system. Orthoses and supports are medical devices that are prescribed by doctors for disorders and injuries in the musculoskeletal system and contribute to the healing process. The aim is to help increase people's mobility. Orthoses are used to stabilize, immobilize and relax the affected areas of the body or to restore them to a physiologically correct shape.