Orthotics – Patient Information

• A referral is needed to become a patient in the Prosthetics & Orthotics department at HHS
• Please contact your physician or general practitioner for a referral

• 325 Wellington St. North, Hamilton ON L8L 0A4
• Located across the street from Hamilton General Hospital
• Paid parking is available on site
•  Once inside:
  • Walk through main entrance
  • Look left
  • Enter double doors labelled Prosthetics & Orthotics Department
  • Check in at reception desk to the left

• Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O) Referral Form
• Referral form/submission information for physicians (number to fax referrals to)
• The prosthetics department receives the majority of new referrals from the Amputee Outpatient Clinic located at the Regional Rehab Centre
  • Prosthetic delivery in Ontario is primarily supported through Assistive Devices Program (ADP) funding
  • The funding model for prosthetic care is based on the clinic delivery model which requires the amputee to be assessed by a specialist and the rehabilitation team in the same place at the same time

Initial Assessment 

• A clinician (registered Orthotist) will assess the patient’s needs
• A gait analysis may be conducted, in which a clinician will watch the patient walk 
• A physical examination, including taking measurements, will take place

Casting 

• Limb(s) may be casted to create a custom fit for new device
• A serial cast may be used to gently stretch a patient’s limb(s)

3D Scanning

• For helmets and spine correcting devices a scan is taken to create a custom fit device

Fitting 

• After the device has been produced, the device will be adjusted to create a perfect fit
• The patient will try on the device and evaluate its performance and level of comfort
• Any necessary adjustments will be made at this point 

Follow-Up

• A follow-up appointment is used to ensure the device is functioning properly and to fix any issues the patient may have 
• At any point a patient can request a follow-up appointment if they are experiencing issues with their device

• Closely follow care and cleaning instructions that have been provided to you by your Prosthetist/Orthotist
• Inspect for signs of wear on a regular basis 

Please contact us for a follow-up appointment when:

• Your device is no longer fitting you
• Your device has been damaged and is in need of repair
• You are experiencing any discomfort or skin irritation as a result of wearing your device
• Your device no longer meets your needs