Accurate measurement and patient centered practice are essential in orthopedic prosthetics and orthotics

An event titled “Lower Extremity Orthotic Products” was organized by the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program of Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS). The event featured Orthotist Prosthetist Selçuk Sunar, a graduate of the same program, as the guest speaker. Sharing his professional knowledge and experience with students, Sunar talked about his career journey and emphasized that accurate measurement and patient centered practice are the most critical elements of the profession. He later demonstrated how orthoses are applied to patients through practical examples.

Held at the Çarşı Campus, the event was moderated by Instructor Kübra Akkalay, Head of the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program at Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services.

“Accurate measurement and patient centered practice are indispensable in this profession”

Speaking about the work carried out in prosthetics and orthotics centers, Orthotist Prosthetist Selçuk Sunar stated: “I am a graduate of the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program at Üsküdar University VSHS, and I currently run my own practice. There are various career opportunities in the field of prosthetics and orthotics. These include working as a technician in workshops, working in retail sales, serving as a field promotion specialist, or eventually establishing your own business. In prosthetics and orthotics centers, standing frames, walking assistive aluminum devices, prostheses, helmets, metal orthoses, thoracic braces, pediatric orthoses, scoliosis braces, insoles, custom postoperative orthoses, prefabricated orthoses, and silicone prostheses are produced and fitted for patients. To work successfully in this field, it is essential to collaborate with an experienced and harmonious team, be well acquainted with devices and materials, have suitable production and storage areas, and manage time effectively. In addition, selecting the appropriate product for the patient, performing accurate measurement and evaluation, having strong knowledge of raw materials, maintaining an organized production process, carefully conducting fittings and trials, and applying correct pricing are all indispensable aspects of this profession.”

Practical demonstrations of orthosis applications

Following the presentation, students were shown practical demonstrations of how various orthoses are used and applied in clinical practice. These included hallux valgus splints, bunion rollers, different insole applications, metatarsal pads, arch supports and wedges, heel lifts, cork insoles, reflex AFOs, dorsiflexion bands, foot guards, night splints, pneumatic walking boots, ROM walkers, aircast ankle braces, various knee braces, adjustable angle knee braces, and hip braces.

The event concluded with the presentation of a certificate of appreciation and a group photo session.