orthosis

noun

or·​tho·​sis ȯr-ˈthō-səs 

plural orthoses ȯr-ˈthō-ˌsēz 

: an external medical device (such as a brace or splint) for supporting, immobilizing, or treating muscles, joints, or skeletal parts which are weak, ineffective, deformed, or injured

a lower extremity orthosis

spinal orthoses

see orthotic entry 2

Examples of orthosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In more severe cases, a pediatrician may recommend a cranial remolding orthosis, which looks like a baby helmet or band. —Kristina Behr, Parents, 12 July 2024

The extra quarter-inch of room provided by the double depth design accommodates extremely swollen feet and internal brace and ankle-foot orthosis products. —Alena Hall, Verywell Health, 28 Feb. 2023

Ascend is a smart knee orthosis designed to improve mobility and relieve knee pain. —IEEE Spectrum, 30 Apr. 2021

There are a few different reasons why your child’s pediatrician might recommend helmet-molding therapy (sometimes referred to as cranial orthosis). —Korin Miller, SELF, 4 Dec. 2018

The orthosis had to allow upward movement of the ankle while preventing patients from pointing or rising up on their toes. —Kelly McBride, Cincinnati.com, 15 Sep. 2017

Unfortunately, Smith’s injury timeline is approaching a year-and-a-half, and his continued use of an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) brace indicates that may be a permanent need. —Profootballdoc, sandiegouniontribune.com, 9 May 2017

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek orthōsis straightening, from orthoun to straighten, from orthos

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

orthosis

noun

or·​tho·​sis ȯr-ˈthō-səs 

plural orthoses -ˌsēz 

: an external medical device (such as a brace or splint) for supporting, immobilizing, or treating muscles, joints, or skeletal parts which are weak, ineffective, deformed, or injured

an upper extremity orthosis

spinal orthoses

see orthotic