Medical Glossary
ABC-Certified Practitioner
An American Board for Certification (ABC) Certified Practitioner is a person who has successfully completed requirements put forth by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics Inc.
Abduction
Abduction occurs when you move one of your limbs away from the middle/center of your body.
Above Elbow Prosthesis (AEP)
An Above the Elbow (AEP) is a prosthesis used in amputations that occur above the elbow. This can include areas such as the hand, forearm and elbow.
Above Knee Prosthesis (AKP)
An Above the Knee Prosthesis (AKP) is a prosthesis used in amputations that occur above the knee joint level. This includes body parts such as the foot, ankle, shin and thigh.
Accreditation
To be accredited means being recognized by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics Inc. To do this, an organization must prove that they have organization has satisfactorily complied with all applicable standards.
Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that was passed in 1990 and prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, public services and accommodations, and telecommunications.
Ankle Orthosis (AO)
Ankle orthosis (sometimes known as ankle foot orthosis) is used in the treatment of disorders involving the ankle.
Anterior
Refers to the front of the body.
Bariatric Products
Bariatric products are specially designed to support a weight capacity of 300 pounds (or more) for people who need the extra support. Examples of bariatric products include bariatric chairs and bariatric beds – both of which are designed to reduce the chance of lifting injury to the caregiver while also offering the most support and safety to the patient.
Below Elbow Prosthesis (BEP)
A below elbow prosthesis (BEP) is used for amputations involving the hand or forearm below the elbow.
Below Knee Prosthesis (BKP)
A below knee prosthesis (BKP) is used for amputations below the knee, such as the foot and ankle.
Bi-PAP
Sometimes referred to as a BPAP, a Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure or Bi-Pap is a non-invasive form of therapy aimed at patients who suffer from sleep apnea. The device works by providing delivering air to the lungs at two levels of pressure, either cyclically in an anaesthetized patient or triggered by the patient’s attempts at breathing when awake.
Bili Light
A bili light is a type of light therapy or phototherapy used to treat jaundice in newborns. This type of light emits a specific type of wavelength that breaks down bilirubin into a form that the body can get rid of.
Bowden Cable Control
A bowden cable control is a prostheses that is controlled by using a combination of shoulder and arm movements with the movement of a mechanical prosthetic.
Cane
A can is a type of device used for supporting weight, improving balance, and reducing fatigue. Canes are available in a variety of adjustable heights and sizes – some of which feature four legs for greater stability.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a congenital, neuromuscular disorder that impairs muscle coordination, muscle tone, or posture. It may also refer to other disabilities caused by damage to the brain before or at the time of birth.
Certification
Given by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics Inc., receiving certification means that an organization has complied with all applicable standards.
Cervical Orthosis (CO)
A cervical orthosis (CO) is used in the treatment of disorders involving the cervical spine.
Cervical/Thoracic Orthosis (CTO)
Cervical and thoracic orthosis (CTO) is used in the treatment of disorders involving the cervical and/or thoracic spine.
Cervical/Thoracic/Lumbosacral Orthosis (CTLSO)
A orthosis used in the treatment of disorders involving the cervical, thoracic and/or lumbosacral spine.
Child/Junior Wheelchair
A child or junior wheelchair is designed with children and/or young adults in mind. Child/Junior wheelchairs are typically adaptable to classroom environments and are “friendly looking" to help children fit more readily into social situations.
Circumduction
Sometimes referred to as “circular movement,”, circumduction is the circular motion of a limb that is caused when the movements of flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction are sequentially performed.
Commode 3-in-1
A 3-in-1 commode is an FDA registered portable bathroom device that is aimed at people with musculoskeletal or neuromuscular limitations. It serves three purposes. It can be used by a patient’s bedside as a standalone commode. The height is adjustable, and it can be placed over a toilet.
Compression Stocking
Compression stockings are specialized socks or stockings/hosiery designed to prevent or slow the progression of venous disorders, such as: phlebitis, thrombosis, and edema. This special type of stocking is available in a wide variety of sizes and compression strengths and different applications.
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) occurs when the heart is unable to maintain adequate circulation of blood in the tissues of the body or is unable to effectively pump blood to circulate throughout the body.
Continuing Education
Education is education specific to a field of interest or occupation. Typically, this type of education is in addition to previously acquired education. It goes above and beyond the initial professional experience/preparation.
Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Device
Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) is a type of machine used to move a person’s joint without having to use effort. Most commonly, CPM devices are used on knee joints but are available for synovial joints following surgery or trauma.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP is a positive airway pressure ventilator that keeps the airways continuously open in individuals who suffer from sleep apnea and other disorders in which they are unable to breathe on their own.
Credentialing
Credentialing is the verification of an individual’s education, training and experience from other reputable sources.
Crutch
A crutch is a device placed under the armpit, used to offer support to a person to help them walk more easily. Crutches are available in a variety of sizes and are lightweight and easy to adjust for additional stability.
Custom Designed Prosthesis
Custom prostheses (prosthetics) are artificial body parts, such as a leg or arm, that are custom made from an anatomical model of an individual’s limb.
Custom Fitted Orthoses
An orthosis (orthoses = plural) refers to an externally applied device that is designed to custom fit to your body to help with issues ranging from:
- Body alignment
- Providing support for an injury
- Assisting in rehabilitation
- Reducing pain
- Increasing mobility
Cylinders (Tanks)
Cylinder tanks are carrying cases or carts that are used for M2, M4, M6, and M9 oxygen tanks.
Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic and disorder that affects the exocrine glands, causing severe lung damage and nutritional deficiencies.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose levels are above average. There are two types of diabetes – Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes (also known as insulin-dependent or juvenile diabetes) is a form of diabetes that develops during childhood or the teen years and is characterized by a severe deficiency of insulin.
Type 2 diabetes:
Also known as adult-onset diabetes, this common form of diabetes mostly affects adults and obese individuals. It is characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin utilization coupled with the body’s inability to compensate with increased insulin production.
Diabetic Supplies
Diabetic supplies are items that allow a diabetic person to test their blood glucose levels.
Diplegia
Diplegia is paralysis of both your upper and lower extremities, with the lower extremities more severely affected.
Distal
Distal refers to something that is located farther away from the attached end of a limb.
Dorsal Surface
Dorsal surface refers to the back of your hand or top of the foot.
Dorsiflexion
Dorsiflexion occurs when you bend your wrist so the back of the hand points toward the forearm. It can also occur when you bend your ankle so the foot points upward.
Dual Control
Dual control is a split or dual bowden cable and housing system used for actuation of a single component.
Edema
Also known as swelling, edema occurs when excess fluid fills the tissue spaces.
Elbow Disarticulation Prosthesis (EDP)
Elbow disarticulation prosthesis (EDP) is a prosthesis used for amputations of the hand or forearm through the elbow joint.
Elbow Orthosis (EO)
Elbow orthosis (EO) is orthosis used for the treatment of disorders only involving the elbow.
Electric Powered Component
An electric powered component is used to provide controlled positioning for functional use when designing of a prosthetic.
Electromyogram (EMG)
An electromyogram (EMG) monitors electrical impulses that are released during voluntary or involuntary muscle contractions.
Endoskeletal Prosthesis
A endoskeletal prosthesis is a type of prosthetic designed with internal supporting structural components.
Environmental Control Unit
An environmental control unit allows you to remotely control electronic devices in your immediate surroundings.
Eversion
Eversion occurs when you rotate the sole of your foot outwards so that it faces away from the middle of your body.
Exoskeletal Prostheses
An exoskeletal prostheses is a prosthetic designed with a rigid external supporting structural shell.
Extension
Extension occurs when you extend or straighten a limb at a joint. (Example: straightening your leg at the knee)
Fabric or Neoprene Orthoses
Orthoses fabricated of cloth fabrics or neoprene as the primary materials.
Facility
A facility is the professional office that a practitioner uses to see/treat patients with orthotic/prosthetic needs.
Facio-Scapulo-Humeral Muscular Dystrophy
Facio-Scapulo-Humeral Muscular Dystrophy is the second most common type of muscular dystrophy; it usually occurs in adolescent females and males.
Flexion
Flexion is the act of bending a limb at a joint to form an angle.
Foot Orthosis (FO)An orthosis used for treating foot disorders below the ankle joint.
Genu Recurvatum
Condition in which you have hyperextended your knee.
Genu Valgum
Also known as ‘knock-knee’ Gena Valgum is a condition where your knees angle in and touch each other while your legs are straightened.
Genu Varum
Also referred to as bowlegs or bandy-leg, Gena Varum is a type of deformity where there is outward bowing at the knee, giving your legs the overall the appearance of an archer’s bow.
Hand Orthosis (HO)
A orthosis used to treat hand and/or finger disorders below the wrist joint.
Helios Portable Oxygen System and Reservoir
Encourages an active lifestyle for long-term oxygen therapy patients. Small, lightweight, and long-lasting – no tubes, heavy canisters or batteries are required.
Hemipelvectomy Prosthesis (HP)
A prosthesis used in amputations or congenital absences of the complete leg involving the pelvis, hip, foot, shin, ankle and thigh.
Hemiplegia
Occurs when your upper and lower extremities are paralyzed on the same side, and half the trunk of the body.
Hepatitis C HCV
Usually transmitted via contact with infected blood, hepatitis C HCV is an inflammation of the liver causing soreness and swelling. Prior to 1992, it was most commonly contracted by sharing needles during drug use, or receiving a blood transfusion.
Hip Disarticulation Prosthesis (HDP)
A type of prosthesis used in amputations or congenital absences of the complete leg at the hip joint level.
Hip Orthosis (HO)
A type of orthosis used to treat hip disorders.
Hip/Knee/Ankle/Foot Orthosis (HKAFO)
A type of orthosis used to treat disorders of the hip, knee, ankle, and foot.
Hospital Bed
A special type of bed designed to allow hospital patients to be positioned with maximum safety in mind. Hospital beds may also be used in a residential setting. The three most common types of hospital beds available for the home: 1)Semi-Electric Beds 2)Manual Beds and 3) Full-Electric Beds.
Hybrid Components
A blend of mechanical, electric powered, and/or passive-mechanical components used to help design a prosthesis.
Hybrid Control
A type of prosthetic control technique involving any combination of bowden cable, switch and/or myoelectric control methods in order to move a mechanical or electric powered prosthesis.
Hybrid Design Concepts
Certain types of prosthetic design concepts that include a variety of control techniques to help improve prosthetic function.
Hyperextension
Occurs when you over extend an extremity beyond its anatomical position. (Example: hyperextending your knee in soccer when going after the ball)
Hypertension
Blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg.
Institutional/Nursing Home/Depot Wheelchair
A special type of wheelchair designed for transporting patients in hospitals or nursing homes.
Inversion
Occurs when the sole of your foot rotates towards the middle of your body. Also referred to as “rolling your ankle”.
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Knee Disarticulation Prosthesis (KDP)
A prosthesis used for amputations or congenital absences of the foot, ankle and shin at the knee joint level.
Knee Orthosis (KO)
A special type of orthosis used to treat certain knee disorders.
Knee/Ankle/Foot Orthosis (KAFO)
A orthosis used to treat disorders of the foot, ankle and knee, just below the hip joint.
Kyphosis
A type of spinal disorder characterized by an exaggerated backward (posterior) curvature in the thoracic region.
Lateral (External) Rotation
Occurs when you rotate a body part away from the midline/center of your body.
Lifts/Seating System
A type of mobility system involving power lift chairs that gently transport a person to various standing, seated, or reclined positions.
Lightweight/Sports Wheelchair
A special type of wheelchair most frequently used by people with strong upper body mobility. Because these wheelchairs are lightweight, they offer maximum independent movement with very little effort.
Liquid Oxygen System
Used primarily for travel outside of the home, this is a special type of oxygen tank system consisting of a large tank and two portable units.
Lordosis
Is a type of excessive inward or forward curvature in the spine.
Lumbosacral Orthosis (LSO)
Used in the lowest part of the spine, lumbosacral orthosis is a type of device used to treat disorders involving the lumbosacral spine.
Mastectomy Prosthesis (MP)
Sometimes used by breast cancer survivors or others who have had one or both breasts removed – this is a type of artificial breast prosthesis.
Mechanical Components
Components controlled by using shoulder and arm movements harnessed within a bowden cable control system for the movement of the components used in the design of the prostheses.
Medial (Internal) Rotation
Occurs when you rotate a part of your body towards the center of your body.
Median Plane
The vertical plane that divides your body into the right and left half.
Metal & Leather Orthoses
Orthoses characterized by metal and leather in the design.
Molded Plastic & Metal Orthoses
Orthoses characterized by thermoplastic or thermoset resin plastics and metal joints.
Monoplegia
Occurs when you experience paralysis to one region or area of your body.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
A chronic, and often debilitating disease that affects your brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).
Muscular Dystrophy
A group of rare inherited muscle diseases in which muscle fibers are unusually susceptible to damage, making them progressively weaker. There are many forms of muscular dystrophy, but the three most common types of muscular dystrophy are Duchenne, facioscapulohumeral, and myotonic.
Musculoskeletal
Relates to the muscles/musculature and skeleton.
Myoelectric Control
A type of advanced prosthetic control technique that uses skeletal muscles that control voluntary movement (myoelectric) to activate and move an electric powered prosthetic component.
Nebulizer
A special type of inhaler that produces a fine, medicated mist when inhaled into the lungs when the individual breathes through a mouthpiece or mask attached to the nebulizer device. The main purpose of nebulizers is to help relax the airways so that more air can move in and out of the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Necrosis
Cellular or tissue death within the living body (Example: gangrene).
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Also known as wound V.A.C therapy, this FDA-approved device uses negative pressure through a controlled suction to close large wounds and promote faster healing in patients when traditional dressing changes are not effective.
Orthosis
Custom designed anatomical devices applied externally on the human body and intended to provide support of disorders associated with neuromuscular and/or musculoskeletal dysfunctions.
Orthotics
Providing orthotic rehabilitation engineering services for the purpose of restoring specific neuromuscular and/or musculoskeletal disorders of the human body.
Orthotist
A health care provider specially trained to provide orthotic services at the direction of, and in consultation with, a licensed practicing physician.
Osteoporosis
A disease characterized by bone density loss, leading to weakness of the skeleton and increased risk of fracture, particularly of the hip, pelvis, spine, wrist, and upper arm.
Ostomy Supplies
A one-piece or two-piece pouch system that attaches to the abdomen by a faceplate/flange and is fitted over and around the stoma to collect the diverted output, either stool or urine.
One-piece Pouching System
An ostomy pouch and skin barrier that are applied and removed together – in one piece.
Two-piece Pouching System
An ostomy pouch and skin barrier that are separate. Because it is separate from the pouch, the skin barrier can be more easily positioned around the stoma.
Oxygen Concentrator
Electronically powered device containing a series of filters that remove oxygen from air in the room.
Oxygen Conserver
A type of regulator using portable cylinders to conserve the amount of gaseous oxygen
Palmar (Volar) Flexion
Ending the wrist so that the palm of the hand points toward the forearm.
Palmar (Volar) Surface
Also referred to as the volar surface, the palmar surface is underside of the palm/hand.
Paralysis
Occurs when you lose complete ability to control muscular activity in various locations of your body.
Paraplegia
Paralysis that occurs in one-half of the body, especially the lower body.
Parkinson’s Disease
A chronic and progressive movement/nervous system disorder that affects movement. Characterized by tremors, limb stiffness, and/or impaired balance and coordination.
Partial Foot Prosthesis (PFP)
A prosthesis used in amputations or congenital absences that occur below the ankle.
Partial Hand Prosthesis (PHP)
A prosthesis used for amputations or congenital absences that occur below the wrist.
Partial Mastectomy Prosthesis (PMP)
Partial surgical removal or congenital absence of the breast.
Passive Control
Prostheses controlled by using pre-positioning of a manually operated friction, free motion, or locking type joint for the movement of a mechanical prosthetic component.
Passive Components
Mechanical components with friction or positive locking joints controlled by manual positioning or semi-functional use of the components used in the design of a prostheses.
Patient Lifts
Assist in safely transferring patients from a seated to standing position or from one location to another.
Pediatric Nebulizer
A special breathing device designed to be used by infants/children to help make breathing easier.
Pedorthics
The practice of providing services related to the design, manufacture, modification and fit of shoes and foot orthoses for children and infants to alleviate foot problems caused by disease, congenital defect, overuse or injury.
Pedorthist
A health care provider specifically trained in providing pedorthic services at the direction of, and in consultation with, a licensed practicing physician.
Pes (Talipes) Valgus
An acquired deformity where the weight is borne on the inner border of the foot and the sole is turned outward, giving a flat foot presentation.
Pes (Talipes) Varus
A deformity in which the weight is borne on the outer border of the foot and the sole of the foot is turned inward.
Pes Calcaneus
A condition where the ankle is bent backwards and the toes are elevated, causing you to put most of your weight on the heel.
Pes Cavus
Also known as having a “high arch,” this is characterized by the exaggerated height of the arch of the foot.
Pes Equinus
A condition where the ankle is plantar flexed and the heel is elevated, causing you to put most of your weight on your toes.
Pes Planus (Planovalgus)
More commonly known as flatfoot, pes planus is a condition where the foot looks flat and is almost always bent outward.
Phototherapy
Used to help infants with jaundice – also known as a bili light.
Plantar Flexion
Bending the ankle so the foot points downward.
Plantar Surface
The bottom, or sole, of the foot.
Portable E-Tank
Are portable tanks requiring a key to turn the tank on/off. These tanks are used for transport and must be replaced when empty.
Portable Lifting Cushion
A pneumatic lift that gently raises you up to an almost standing position using a portable cusion that weighs approximately 9 pounds.
Portable Oxygen System
A system that provides individuals with a convenient, lightweight supply of oxygen.
Position Servo Pull-Switch Control
A single pull-switch used to trigger two opposing functions of an electric powered component allowing proportional control of speed, force and positioning.
Posterior
Refers to the back of the body.
Powered Wheelchair
A type of automatic wheelchair that assists individuals who have physical disabilities and/or mobility issues.
Powered Wheelchair Armrest
Arm rests that are specially designed for power wheelchairs – available in several styles or with a combination of features.
Powered Wheelchair Battery
Special type of battery that helps to power an automatic/power wheelchair. The larger the chair’s batteries, the greater the power and the longer the chair’s range between charges.
Powered Wheelchair Brakes
A dynamic braking system where the motor and brakes work together to slow and stop the power chair when the joystick or other controller is released.
Powered Wheelchair Controls
Generally included as a standard feature a manually controlled joystick to regulate a power chair’s speed and direction.
Powered Wheelchair Drive System
Refers to how a power wheelchair receives power to its wheels. The type of drive system affects the power available to propel the chair and the amount and type of maintenance the chair requires.
Powered Wheelchair Footrest
A variety of footrest assemblies available on power wheelchairs ranging from flip-up to detachable and more.
Powered Wheelchair Frame
Frames that are specific to power wheelchairs, ranging from the traditional cross-brace frame to other traditional models.
Powered Wheelchair Seating System
Special seating system, custom to power wheelchairs and sold separately from the wheelchairs themselves, as seating must be chosen on an individual basis.
Powered Wheelchair Special Power Features
Specialized features to meet the power wheelchair user’s needs, either as customization or options on a standard chair or as a chair designed specifically for a particular purpose.
Powered Wheelchair Upholstery
Upholstery that is custom designed and fit to power wheelchairs. Powered wheelchair upholstery may be available in a variety of colors, ranging from dark to bright, neon colors.
Powered Wheelchair Wheels/Tires
Wheels, usually 8 to 10 inches in diameter, used on power chairs. These chairs may have pneumatic, semi-pneumatic, or solid tires.
Prefabricated Orthosis
An orthosis which is premade in general anatomical sizes (example:. small, medium, and large) and are fitted to the affected limb or spine to control mild neuromuscular and/or musculoskeletal disorders. A prefabricated orthosis may also be used to evaluate the need for a custom designed orthosis.
Prefabricated Prostheses
Usually refers to a temporary prosthetic that is used in preparation for the final prosthetic to be applied.
Pronation
Involves moving your forearm so that your hand rests palm down on a surface.
Prosthesis
Custom designed and/or fitted anatomical devices applied externally to the human body for the purpose of restoring neuromuscular and musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the human body associated with the complete or partial absence of a limb.
Prosthetics
The practice and science of providing prosthetic rehabilitation engineering services for the purpose of restoring neuromuscular and musculoskeletal functions of the human body associated with the congenital and/or acquired absence of a limb.
Prosthetist
A health care professional who is specially trained in providing prosthetic services at the direction of, and in consultation with, a licensed practicing physician.
Protraction
The forward movement of a body part such as the shoulder. Example: rolling your shoulders forward.
Proximal
Located closer to the attached end of a limb.
Pseudohypertrophic Muscular Dystrophy
Also referred to as Duchenne’s Disease – is the most common type of muscular dystrophy usually occurring in childhood.
Pull-Switch Control
Dual micro-switches used to trigger two functions of an electric powered component. Typically uses a pulling motion.
Push Button Switch Control
A single micro-switch used to perform a single function. Usually requires a pushing motion or switching motion to activate.
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
Also referred to as tetraplegia, quadriplegia is paralysis of all four major body part areas, as well as the trunk.
Ramp
Refers to the ramps used by wheelchairs and scooters. Ramps come in different styles – from portable ramps that roll up for easy storage/carrying to automatic ramps and more.
Referral Sources
Individuals or organizations that are qualified to refer a patient for orthotic/prosthetic treatment.
Residual Limb
The part of the limb that remains after an amputation.
Retraction
Occurs when you move a body part backwards, such as rolling your shoulder backwards.
Rocker Switch Control
Dual micro-switches used for two functions of an electric powered component with a rocker motion or of multiple functions with multiple switches and components.
Rotation
Occurs when you rotate a body part in a circular motion (ex: rolling your neck in circles).
Sacral Orthosis (SO)
A type of orthosis used to treat sacrum disorders.
Scapular-Thoracic Prosthesis (STP)
A prosthesis used in amputations or congenital absences of the complete arm involving the shoulder through the hand area.
Scoliosis
Refers to the outward curvature of the spine and usually occurs just before or during puberty.
Scooter
Similar to wheelchairs, scooters are motorized devices that are used to help those who have physical disabilities or other mobility challenges. Usually (though not always), scooter users have some ability to walk, but are limited in distance or stamina.
Scooter Accessories
Includes items such as crutch and cane holders, oxygen carriers, trailers, headlights, tail lights, horns, and more. Some scooter manufacturers even offer sidecars to allow an extra passenger.
Scooter Armrest
Special armrests that are custom designed to scooters. These include fixed armrests as well as armrests that move/flip-up.
Scooter Base Unit
Refers to the body of the scooter and generally consists of a steel, aluminum, or composite frame with a fiberglass or composite floor to support the feet and batteries.
Scooter Battery
Refers to the type of battery used to power a scooter. Most scooters utilize 12 or 24-volt motors and electrical systems generally with one or two 12-volt batteries to power the drive train and controls.
Scooter Brakes
A type of electronic braking system designed specifically for scooters.
Scooter Drive Train, Brakes and Power System
An integral part of the scooter system, the drive train of a scooter provides front or rear wheel drive for the scooter.
Scooter Seating
Seating that is specially designed for scooters – usually comprised of molded hard plastic or fiberglass. However, most manufacturers offer a padded-seat option, usually with a choice of vinyl or fabric upholstery.
Scooter Tiller
The mechanism that allows you to control a scooter. It controls whether you can drive the scooter forward or in reverse, as well as steering the front wheel or wheels.
Scooter Wheels/Tires
Special tires custom designed for scooters, allowing the scooter the ability to overcome obstacles and provide stability.
Shoulder Disarticulation Prosthesis (SDP)
A prosthesis used in amputations or congenital absences of the complete arm.
Shoulder Orthosis (SO)
An orthosis used to treat shoulder disorders.
Shoulder/Elbow/Wrist/Hand Orthosis (SEWHO)
A special orthosis used to treat shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, and/or finger disorders.
Single Control
A single bowden cable and housing system used for actuation of a single component or control action.
Single Site – Single Functional Control
A single EMG muscle potential site used for proportional or digital actuation of a single function of an electric powered component with a single myoelectric control processor.
Single Site – Two Function Control
A single EMG muscle potential site used for proportional or digital actuation of two opposing functions of an electric powered component with a dual control myoelectric control processor.
Sleep Apnea
A chronic medical condition where the affected person repeatedly stops breathing during sleep, causing oxygen levels in the blood to drop. Sleep apnea can be caused by obstruction of the upper airway or by a failure of the brain to initiate a breath.
Specialty Wheelchair
A wheelchair that is specially designed with the user’s mobility needs in mind. Ranging from oversized chairs to rugged and aerodynamic chairs and more.
Spina Bifida
A congenital birth defect in which the spine does not form properly. It is characterized by a portion of the bony spine being separated in two sections.
Standard/Everyday Wheelchair
One of the most commonly used wheelchairs, characterized by a cross-brace frame, built-in or removable arm rests, swing-away footrests, a mid – to high-level back, and handles to allow non-occupants to push the chair forward.
Supination
The movement of the forearm so that the hand rests on a surface with the palm facing upwards.
Switch Control
A prosthetic that is controlled by using shoulder and arm movements for the actuation and movement of an electric powered prosthetic component.
Symes Prosthesis (SP)
A prosthesis used in foot and ankle amputations.
T.E.N.S. Unit
A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit is a battery-operated device used to treat pain. Using a 9 volt transistor batter, TENS units work by delivering small electrical impulses via electrodes that are attached to a person’s skin.
Talipes Equinovarus
Commonly known as clubfoot, this disorder of the foot is characterized bya small, elevated heel; a broad twisted forefoot; and a curved outer border.
Thoracic/Lumbosacral Orthosis (TLSO)
A thoracic-lumbo-sacral orthosis (TLSO) is a type of body brace used to treat disorders involving the thoracic and lumbosacral spine, such as scoliosis.
Triple Control
Multiple bowden cable and housing systems used to activate more than one component or control action.
Triplegia
A type of medical condition in which there is paralysis of any three limbs of the body.
Two Site – Five Function Myoelectric Control
The use of two EMG muscle potential sites used for proportional or digital actuation of five functions of two electric powered hand, elbow and/or wrist components with a multi-functional control multiplex myoelectric processor. One of the five functions is used for mode switching between the two components being controlled.
Two Site – Seven Functional Control
Dual EMG muscle potential sites used for proportional or digital actuation of seven functions of three electric powered hand, elbow and/or wrist components with a multi-functional control multiplex myoelectric processor. One of the seven functions is used for mode switching between the three components being controlled.
Two Site – Two Function Myoelectric Control
The use of dual EMG muscle potential sites used for proportional or digital actuation of two opposing functions of an electric powered component with a dual control myoelectric processor.
Urinary Incontinence
The inability to control the passage of urine – ranging from occasional urine leakage to the complete inability to hold any urine.
Urinary Pouching System
Also known as an ostomy pouching system, this type of system is a prosthetic medical device designed with a special valve or spout which adapts to either a leg bag or to a night drain tube connecting to a special drainable bag or bottle.
Valgus
A type of foot deformity in which the foot rotates outward to face away from the center of the body.
Varus
A type of foot deformity in which the sole of the foot rotates inward to face towards the middle/center of the body.
Ventilator
A type of automatic mechanical/pneumatic device designed to help you breathe by doing the work required to move air into and out of the lungs.
Walker
A type of mobility device that assists someone in being able to walk more easily. Available in a variety of styles to meet individual needs including: folding, adjustable walkers, hemi-walkers, wheeled walkers and more.W
heelchair Armrest
Armrests that are specially designed for wheelchairs and wheelchair users to help them with upper body balance while seated. Armrests are available in a variety of styles including flip-up, fixed, or detachable.
Wheelchair Brakes
Are brakes affixed to wheelchairs, allowing the user to safely come to a stop. Wheelchair brakes are available in a variety of different designs, and can be mounted at various heights to make it easier for the user.
Wheelchair Footrest
Special types of footrests that are usually are incorporated into the wheelchair frame. Wheelchair footrests can range in type and feature, including footrests that swivel, are removable and can flip up or out.
Wheelchair Frame
There are two common types of wheelchair frames currently available: rigid frame wheelchairs and the standard cross-brace wheelchair frame.
Wheelchair Seating System
Most wheelchair seating is selected based on the individual and his/her mobility needs. As a result, most wheelchair seating is sold separately from the wheelchairs themselves.
Wheelchair Upholstery
Refers to the type of fabric or material used to outfit a wheelchair. Wheelchair upholstery typically ranges from cloth to synthetic fabrics to leather. You can also find a wide selection of upholstery colors from many wheelchair manufacturers.
Wheelchair Wheels/Tires
Wheelchair tires are specially formatted to fit the wheelchair it’s designed for. Most wheelchairs use four wheels, and most manufacturers offer other types of wheelchair tires ranging from solid tires to semi-pneumatic, radial tires and more.
Wound V.A.C Therapy
An FDA-approved, patented device that uses negative pressure via a controlled suction in order to close large wounds and encourage a faster healing time. Also known as negative pressure wound therapy.
Wrist Disarticulation Prosthesis (WDP)
A special type of prosthetic used for amputations or congenital absences of the hand or forearm through the wrist joint.
Wrist Orthosis (WO)
A type of orthosis used to treat wrist disorders.
Wrist/Hand Orthosis (WHO)
A orthosis used to treat wrist and hand disorders below the elbow joint.
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