ortooseja

Ortooseja is the Finnish plural noun meaning orthoses, medical devices used to support, align, prevent or correct deformities of the limbs or spine. They are prescribed by physicians and fitted by orthotists as part of rehabilitation or ongoing management for conditions such as fractures, ligament injuries, scoliosis, cerebral palsy, or degenerative diseases. The term ortoosi is used for a single device; ortooseja is its plural form.

Ortooseja can be designed to immobilize a joint, guide movement, or redistribute load. Common examples include knee orthoses (support braces for the knee), ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) that stabilize the ankle and foot, and thoracolumbosacral orthoses (TLSOs) for spinal support. Materials range from lightweight plastics and composites to carbon fiber, metal, and fabric.

The fitting process involves evaluation by an orthotist, taking measurements or casts, and customizing the device to fit the patient’s anatomy and activity level. Adjustability, comfort, and skin care are important considerations. Orthoses may be removable and adjustable to accommodate growth in children.

In medical practice, ortooseja play a role in non-surgical treatment plans, post-injury rehabilitation, and long-term management of chronic conditions. They are part of a broader field of orthotics, which collaborates with medicine, physical therapy, and prosthetics to improve function and quality of life.