Orthotics Service

Our community orthotic service provides a range of orthoses (artificial aids that support/correct unstable and/or painful joints) including:

• footwear
• insoles
• ankle foot orthoses
• knee braces
• spinal braces/supports
• upper limb orthoses
• compression garments
• custom-made orthoses

The service treats patients of all ages, ranging from those with a temporary need to those with a long-term need for orthotic intervention. Some people with chronic conditions such as stroke, polio and high-risk diabetes may need a service from the Orthotics Department throughout their life.

We run clinics at Blandford Hospital, Bridport Hospital, Maple Place ( Poole), Portland Hospital, Swanage Hospital and Yeatman Hospital and Special Educational Needs (SEN) Schools throughout the community. We also provide input to wards at Poole Hospital.

Contact Information

Orthotics Department
Maple Place
St. Marys Road
Poole
BH15 2LG
01202 44 22 98
dhc.orthotics.service@nhs.net

Referral process

• Internal referrals from a consultant will entail the provision of one treatment per condition within one six month period for a patient new to the orthotic service. Patients cannot be referred to the orthotic service whilst attending the hospital and are seen as a follow-up patient.
• General Practitioners (GP) can refer patients directly to the orthotic service for assessment and treatments. Referrals are also accepted from community musculoskeletal services (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, podiatrist and community nursing/midwifery) on behalf of the patients General Practitioner.