Orthotics service

We are a team of registered orthotists, podiatrists, orthotics/appliance officers and a wig fitter working across Calderdale and Huddersfield.  We are based at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary in Huddersfield and Broad Street Plaza, Halifax (see below). We also provide an outreach service to a number of satellite clinics.

All our staff are registered and regulated by the ‘Health Professions Council (HPC)’

Is your therapist registered with the HPC?

An orthotic device is externally fitted to support any part of the body weakened by defect, disease or injury. The device is fitted in such a manner to reduce pain, improve function and mobility. The term ‘orthosis’ covers a wide range of products including lower and upper limb devices such as:

• Lumber supports
• Leg braces
• Footwear (made to measure and shoe alterations)
• Insoles
• Elbow clasps
• Collars, Helmets
• Wrist splint
• Hosiery
• Wigs
• Breast prostheses and bras

Do I have to pay for my orthotics?

Some items incur a prescription charge which is payable before the item is supplied. If you are exempt from charges, we will need verification of this and may ask you to complete a form.  We will display prescription charges in the department.

What do we do?

An orthotist contributes to the care of both inpatients and outpatients with children and adults, across a wide range of specialties. We offer assessment, advice and the provision of an orthosis that will influence the motion of one or more joints. 

We run a wig fitting clinic once a week for people who are suffering hair loss due to medical treatment such as chemotherapy or a medical condition such as alopecia. Our hairdresser holds a selection of modern hair pieces for you to try. 

We hold a breast prostheses and bra fitting service on ward 3 at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary where patients can benefit from the personal attention and professional expertise of a qualified breast care prosthetic fitter. You will receive advice on the different types of prostheses available to help women become aware of the wide range of products available.

What happens at my appointment?

The orthotist carries out a full biomechanical evaluation of a patient’s needs, designs, takes the measurements required (which may include a plaster cast), provides full manufacturing specifications and fits the finished device to the patients. You may receive your orthosis at your first appointment but more often it will be specially made or ordered for you and you will need a second appointment. The orthotist will explain to you what you should expect from your orthosis and when and how to wear it.

Huddersfield Royal Infirmary - lower ground floor. There is a pay and display car park situated opposite the main entrance to the hospital.

Halifax - our clinic is at Broad Street Plaza. There is a multi-storey car park in Broad Street Plaza, alongside town centre car parks.