Prosthetics and Orthotics Clinical Center Kids
The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's (RIC) Prosthetics & Orthotics Clinical Center (POCC) is especially proud of its services for children with orthotic and prosthetic needs. Orthoses or prostheses may be appropriate for children with the following conditions:
- amputation
- congenital limb differences
- cerebral palsy
- spina bifida
- muscular dystrophy
- neuromuscular disease
- spasticity
- club foot
- foot drop
- flat feet
- gait disorders
- brain injury
- spinal cord injury
- burns
- bone fractures
- tumor
- scoliosis
- sports injuries
Children who use orthotic or prosthetic devices have unique needs. Because they grow so quickly, children should visit their prosthetist or orthotist every three to six months to monitor the fit, function and condition of their orthosis or prosthesis. Your child’s clinician will let you know if their device requires more frequent follow-up care. We design devices for children with the following qualities in mind: durability, adjustability for growth and ease of use for parents and caregivers. RIC also offers financial assistance programs for children with prosthetic and orthotic needs.
Our special services for children include:
Ambulation Training Orthosis Clinic
This clinic is held with an RIC pediatrician, physical therapist and orthotist each week. A child is evaluated by a multidisciplinary team to determine whether an ambulation training orthosis may benefit them. Fitting of the orthosis is performed in the Prosthetics & Orthotics Clinical Center. The child then receives the final device which includes training for the child and caregivers in the clinic. Regular follow-up care in the clinic ensures the orthosis is adjusted appropriately as the child grows and improves in his or her function.
Pediatric Amputee Clinic
This clinic is held with an RIC physician, physical therapist, occupational therapist and prosthetist each month. We treat children who were born with congenital limb differences, as well as children who have experienced amputation surgery due to tumor, injury, illness or any other condition. Our comprehensive rehabilitation team monitors your child’s developmental milestones and determines an individual treatment plan specifically for them. RIC is dedicated to family and caregiver involvement and education and we focus on addressing the questions and concerns of the entire family during this clinic.
Please contact us at 312-238-2810 to find out more about RIC services for children with orthotic and prosthetic needs.