Learn About Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics Services

What Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics Services Offers

Hanger Clinic is one of the largest prosthetics and orthotics providers in the United States, operating more than 800 patient care locations across the country. The organization has been serving patients since 1921, making it one of the longest-established companies in this field. Understanding what services they provide can help you learn about the types of devices and support that may be available to people who need prosthetic limbs or orthotic devices.

Hanger provides prosthetic devices, which are artificial limbs designed to replace limbs lost due to amputation, accident, or congenital conditions. They also provide orthotic devices, which are braces or supports worn on the body to improve function, reduce pain, or provide stability to joints and muscles. The company offers services for patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and works with different types of limb loss and mobility challenges.

The services include fitting and customization of devices, ongoing adjustments, maintenance and repairs, and follow-up care. Hanger employs certified prosthetists and orthotists—professionals who have completed specialized education and passed certification exams in their fields. These professionals work with patients to understand their lifestyle, activity level, and goals before recommending specific device options.

The company also operates a research and development division that works on innovations in prosthetic and orthotic technology. This includes work with newer materials, computer-aided design for custom fitting, and testing of new device features. Many locations also offer educational resources to help patients and families understand their options.

Practical Takeaway: Hanger Clinic operates widespread locations and employs certified professionals. Learning about what services they offer—from basic fitting to ongoing care—can help you understand what to expect if you seek services from this provider.

Understanding Prosthetic Devices and How They Work

A prosthetic device is an artificial replacement for a body part that has been lost. The most common prosthetics are limbs—artificial legs, feet, arms, and hands—though prosthetics can also replace other body parts. According to the Amputee Coalition, there are approximately 2.1 million people living with limb loss in the United States, and this number continues to grow. The reasons for limb loss vary: about 54% of cases result from vascular disease (problems with blood flow), 45% from traumatic injury (accidents, combat wounds, severe injuries), and smaller percentages from cancer, infection, or birth defects.

Modern prosthetics are engineered to restore function and mobility. A prosthetic leg, for example, typically includes a socket (the part that attaches to the remaining limb), a knee or ankle mechanism, and a foot. The socket is custom-made to fit the individual's residual limb—the portion of the limb that remains after amputation. Getting a proper socket fit is critical because an ill-fitting socket can cause pain, skin breakdown, and difficulty walking. Prosthetists spend considerable time adjusting and refining the socket to achieve comfort and function.

Prosthetics vary widely in complexity and cost. Some are basic, mechanical devices designed for everyday activities and basic mobility. Others are advanced microprocessor-controlled limbs with sensors and computer chips that adjust joint angles automatically as the user walks. High-tech prosthetics can cost $100,000 or more, while basic prosthetics may range from $5,000 to $30,000. Insurance coverage, personal resources, and individual needs all factor into which type of prosthetic someone receives.

The fitting process involves multiple appointments. The prosthetist takes measurements, creates a mold or 3D scan of the residual limb, fabricates the device, fits it on the patient, makes adjustments, and then provides training on how to use it. Some patients need multiple prosthetics for different activities—one for walking around the house, another for work or outdoor activities, and perhaps a sports-specific prosthetic for running or cycling.

Practical Takeaway: Prosthetics are custom devices that require skilled fitting and ongoing adjustment. Understanding the fitting process and the range of prosthetic options available can help you know what questions to ask and what to expect during consultations.

Overview of Orthotic Devices and Their Applications

Orthotic devices are braces, supports, or other devices worn on the body to improve function, reduce pain, prevent deformity, or protect injured areas. Unlike prosthetics, which replace missing body parts, orthotics work with the body parts that are present. According to the American Orthotics and Prosthetics Association, orthotics are used to treat conditions ranging from sports injuries to neurological disorders. Orthotics are prescribed or recommended for people with cerebral palsy, stroke, arthritis, back pain, foot problems, knee injuries, and many other conditions.

There are many types of orthotics, and they are often identified by the joints or areas they support. An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) supports the ankle and foot and is commonly used by people who have had a stroke or have certain neurological conditions that affect walking. A knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) provides support from the knee down and is used for more significant weakness or instability. Spinal orthotics, or back braces, support the spine and are used for conditions like scoliosis, back pain, or recovery from spinal surgery. Hand and wrist orthotics support these areas for conditions like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Orthotics are made from various materials including plastic, metal, leather, and composite materials. The choice of material depends on the condition being treated, the level of support needed, how long the device will be worn, and individual preferences regarding comfort and appearance. Some orthotics are custom-made specifically for one person's body and condition. Others are prefabricated and adjusted to fit. Custom orthotics typically cost between $800 and $3,000, while prefabricated orthotics may cost $200 to $800, depending on complexity.

Orthotists—the professionals who design and fit orthotics—work closely with physicians and patients to determine the right device. They perform detailed assessments of how a person walks, moves, and experiences pain. They then design or select a device that addresses the specific problems identified. Like prosthetics, orthotics often require multiple adjustments to achieve proper fit and function.

Practical Takeaway: Orthotics serve many different purposes and conditions. Learning about the types of orthotics available and how they work can help you understand whether an orthotic device might address your specific needs.

The Fitting and Customization Process

Getting fitted for a prosthetic or orthotic device is a detailed process that typically takes multiple visits. The first step is an evaluation where the prosthetist or orthotist meets with the patient and often the patient's physician. During this evaluation, the professional learns about the patient's medical history, the reason for amputation or the condition requiring an orthotic, activity level, occupation, and personal goals. A patient who works as a construction worker will have different needs than someone who is primarily sedentary. A young athlete will benefit from different device features than an elderly person recovering from surgery.

Next comes the measurement and assessment phase. For prosthetics, the prosthetist carefully measures the residual limb, notes its shape and condition, and may take 3D scans or create a plaster mold. For orthotics, the orthotist observes how the person walks or moves, measures the involved limbs, and assesses muscle strength, flexibility, and pain. This phase gives the professional the information needed to design a device that will work for that specific person's body and situation.

The fabrication phase comes next. For custom devices, the prosthetist or orthotist uses measurements and molds to create the device. This might involve 3D printing, hand-crafting, or computer-aided design and manufacturing. The professional selects materials, designs joints and mechanisms, and assembles components. For some patients, prefabricated devices that are modified to fit may be appropriate. The choice between custom and prefabricated depends on the complexity of the case, cost considerations, and how quickly the patient needs a device.

Once the device is ready, the fitting appointment is critical. The prosthetist or orthotist puts the device on the patient, checks how it sits, watches the patient move while wearing it, and makes adjustments. Problems like pressure points, poor alignment, or discomfort are addressed. Most devices require multiple follow-