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Frequently Asked Questions and Glossary

Both new and established patients have questions about pediatrics, orthotics, prosthetics, insurance, our process, and more. Find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions as well as a glossary of terms below.

FAQs

What is your policy for COVID-19 safety?

Our first priority is the safety of our staff and patients. We are committed to continued care to our patients in a safe and controlled manner. We are asking our patients and/or anyone in their household if they have flu-like symptoms including fever, cough, or shortness of breath, to let our staff reschedule your appointment. If you or anyone in your family has knowingly been exposed to anyone else with these type symptoms we ask that you reschedule your appointment.

We are spacing our appointments out so we can continue to clean and disinfect between patient visits. We also have closed our waiting room in order to mitigate the spread of the virus. We are asking that no more than two people including the patient come into the appointment.

Please follow all current CDC guidelines to help keep you and your family safe and healthy during this time.

Will my insurance cover your services?

Our billing specialist will contact your insurance provider to determine how your new orthotic or prosthetic device will be covered. Our services may be partially or fully covered. Each insurance policy is different, and you may be responsible for a portion of the payment. Learn more about the insurance providers we work with, and contact our billing department for more information.

Do you accept Medicare or Medicaid?

We are in network with Medicare and GA Medicaid. You can find our Medicare patient forms on our insurance page. Contact our billing department for more information.

What should I bring to the appointment?

Please arrive early to complete the paperwork for your appointment. You will need to bring your insurance card and your referral or prescription from your doctor. If you have x-rays or past orthotic or prosthetic devices, bring them as well.

Do I need a prescription to see you?

Although a prescription is required for an orthosis or a prosthesis, you do not need one for an office visit.

How long does it take to learn how to use a prosthetic device?

It may take months or just a few weeks to adjust to your device and regain mobility, depending on your unique situation, determination, and consistent follow-up care.

How long will it take to get my device?

For prosthetics, it may take three or four weeks to fabricate the device. This is after a healing period of six to eight weeks after your surgery. Custom orthotics can be ready in a matter of days.

How do I take care of my prosthetic device?

Regularly inspect the device for damage or loose parts, and clean the socket with soap and water.

Do orthotic devices need special care?

Most orthotic devices can be cleaned easily with soap and water.

What if my prosthesis doesn’t fit?

It is very important to see your prosthetist for adjustments at follow-up appointments, and your physical therapist for help with alignment and working on regaining mobility. Always discuss problems or discomfort with your prosthetist and therapist.

Can I drive a car with my prosthesis?

Adaptive devices may be able to help you resume driving safely. Learn more by calling your local Department of Motor Vehicles and your car insurance company.

How long do devices last?

Most orthotic and prosthetic devices last for years. For growing children, devices will need to be changed more often.

Who do I contact with questions about my bill?

You can contact our billing specialist by phone or fill out our contact form. You may want to contact your insurance provider for more information on your coverage.

Glossary

AFO: Ankle Foot Orthosis. A custom brace for the lower leg and foot.

Drop Foot: A condition where it is difficult to lift the front part of the foot.

KAFO: Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis. A brace that spans the leg to help stabilize joints and assist the leg muscles.

Orthopedics: The medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating conditions, disorders, and injuries of the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.

Orthosis: A brace or other external device that corrects alignment or provides support.

Orthotics: The medical specialty focused on the design and application of orthoses.

Plagiocephaly: Also called flat head syndrome, this common condition results in the misshaping of a baby’s head. Left untreated, it can lead to deformities.

Prosthesis: An artificial device that replaces a body part to restore function. It can include upper extremity like a hand or arm, or lower extremity like foot or leg.

Prosthetics: The making and fitting of artificial limbs.

RGO: Reciprocating Gait Orthosis.

Scoliosis: Sideways curvature of the spine.

SMO: Supra-Malleolar Orthosis. This device supports the leg just above the anklebones.

TAOS: Therapeutic Ambulatory Orthotic System. As both an orthosis and a mobility base, this device enables children to stand or walk hands-free.

TLSO: Thoracic Lumbar Sacral Orthosis. This custom brace treats scoliosis.