​What Does the Orthotic Department Do? 

​The Orthotic Department provides a wide range of braces and supports (orthoses) for all parts of the body, including:  

  • ​Foot support - insoles 
  • ​Therapeutic footwear  
  • ​Upper limb resting splints and supports 
  • ​Calipers, leg supports  
  • ​Spinal supports  

​Orthoses are used to correct, accommodate, or maintain good positioning of bones and joints which may assist your mobility and function. 

​​Can I Self-Refer to the Department? 

​You cannot self-refer directly. Please ask your physiotherapist, podiatrist, consultant, or GP to refer you to the department. Your referral will last for three years, during which you can request a review with an Orthotist. 

​​Who Will I See at My Appointment? 

​You will see a qualified Orthotist, who will assess you and discuss with you any difficulties you are having.  

What to Expect at My Appointment? 

  • ​The Orthotist will listen to your current challenges and examine you. They will discuss suitable treatment options. 

  • ​You may need to undress for the assessment or for measurements to be taken. A plaster mould may be required.  

  • ​A further appointment may be necessary for additional assessment. 

  • ​We keep a large range of orthoses at Carlisle and may supply one at your first appointment. If the orthosis needs ordering, a supply appointment will be arranged. 

  • ​If you wish, you may bring a relative or friend with you to the appointment.  

​​What Do I Need to Bring to the Appointment?  

  • ​If you are expecting a foot orthosis, wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes (e.g., low heel, lace-up).  

  • ​If you think that your shoes will need adapting (e.g., raised soles), please bring a spare pair for adaptation. 

  • ​If you are expecting a leg orthosis, please wear loose clothing that can be rolled well above the knee.  

  • ​If you already use an orthosis (even if it does not work), please bring it, it may help the Orthotist to decide on the best course of action.  

​​Specialist Clinics with Podiatry 

​We hold regular multidisciplinary clinics for high-risk patients, including amputees. At this appointment, a Podiatrist will assess your foot care needs, and further appointments may be arranged locally if necessary. You will also be assessed by our Orthotist for suitable footwear to help to reduce the risk of injury or friction to your remaining foot. 

​​Where are we Based? 

​​We are based at the Specialist Rehabilitation and Mobility Centre (SRMC) at the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle. We also run clinics at: 

​Please speak with an Orthotic Administrator to let us know which clinic you would like to attend. 

​​Contact details 

​Prosthetic Multi-Disciplinary Team 

Prosthetic Department Specialist Rehabilitation and Mobility Centre (SRMC) 

Cumberland Infirmary 

Tel: 01228 616868 

Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm ​ 

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302