Welcome to a new dimension in patient care.

At Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, we are redefining recovery and mobility with precision-engineered orthotic solutions that integrate seamlessly into your practice.

Discover how our cutting-edge custom and off-the-shelf orthotics can elevate your patient outcomes and streamline your treatment protocols.

Read on to learn why leading healthcare professionals trust us to complement their clinical expertise with our specialized orthotic interventions.

Physicians, orthotists

& alignment

While physicians are extensively trained in family medicine, orthopedics, and other medical specialties to handle a wide range of health issues from trauma to surgical care, orthotists are paramedical professionals who complement this care with specialized expertise in biomechanical alignment and the use of orthotic devices toward alignment.

With at least four years of post-bachelor’s degree training, including a focused residency, orthotists are adept at designing and customizing supportive devices that enhance patient mobility and contribute to comprehensive treatment plans.

Together, physicians and orthotists ensure a holistic approach to health, enhancing both immediate and long-term patient outcomes.

  • Bachelor’s degree usually in Kinesiology or Biomechanics
  • 2 years Prosthetics & Orthotics (at 1 of 2 accredited schools in Canada) 
  • 2 year residency in each discipline (Orthotics and Prosthetics)
    (results in minimum of 8 years education and training)
  • Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist (C.P.O.(c)) has done a residency in both

orthotist quick facts:

outcomes of orthotics & proper alignment

Proper alignment achieved through customized orthotics offers significant benefits in treating various physical conditions. Here are key outcomes:


Aligning the body properly reduces stress on joints and muscles, significantly decreasing pain, especially in chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.


Pain Reduction:

Orthotics tailored for individual needs help improve mobility and stability, allowing patients to perform daily activities with greater ease and confidence.

Enhanced Mobility:

Correct alignment helps prevent the progression of certain conditions, reducing the need for more invasive treatments like surgery.

Prevention of Further Deterioration:

With reduced pain and enhanced mobility, patients enjoy a better quality of life, becoming more active and independent.

Improved Quality of Life:

Conditions Suitable
for Orthotist Referral:

When determining the right time to refer patients to an orthotist, consider these common conditions that can benefit significantly from specialized orthotic intervention:

  • Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Such as persistent lower back, knee, or foot pain.

  • Structural Deformities: Including scoliosis, foot deformities, or postural misalignments.

  • Post-Surgical Recovery: Especially for patients needing support and stabilization following orthopedic surgeries.

  • Neurological Disorders: For managing mobility issues related to conditions like stroke, cerebral palsy, or multiple sclerosis.

  • Pediatric Developmental Conditions: Addressing congenital or developmental issues that affect a child's mobility and growth.

Referring to an orthotist ensures that patients receive precise and tailored support, enhancing therapeutic outcomes and improving their quality of life.







Prescription Criteria and Process

for Orthotic Devices

No prescription is needed for initial consultations or devices paid for privately.

For patients who require coverage through Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) or specific private insurance plans, here's how to prescribe orthotic devices, specifically OA knee braces:







prescription requirements for coverage:

  • Diagnosis: (eg. dropfoot)
  • Side: (left, right, or bilateral)
  • What is Being Prescribed: (eg.Ankle foot orthosis) AFO
  • Referral to Certified Orthotist: Direct the patient to a certified orthotist for the fitting of the prescribed device.

Osteoarthritis offloading knee braces must be
accompanied by the xray report confirming OA if Rx from GP.  (Find specific eligibility and prescribing details HERE)









Financial Coverage for orthotics & prosthetics

All Albertans are covered under Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL)
Only when provided by a Certified Orthotist

75% coverage with a max of $500 patient portion
100% coverage for seniors, AISH, & low income

What is covered under aadl:

Rigid brace used full time for > 6 months (spinal and appendages)
Foot alone not covered (must span ankle)
Knee Braces (both osteoarthritic offloading and ligament stabilizing)
Diabetic ulcers (special criteria, must be referred by the wound clinic)

Bracing for osteoarthritis

surgical wait times or non-surgical candidates?

outcomes:

In a recent study of 242 patients with both medial and lateral OA

Upon intake, patients reported an average pain level of:

7/10

At 4 week checkup, patients reported an average pain level of:

2/10

The 'Terminator,' Lethbridge Orthotics' OA knee brace, is clinically proven to significantly reduce pain and enhance mobility for patients with osteoarthritis. Grounded in advanced orthotic technology, this brace delivers unparalleled support, allowing patients to reclaim their daily activities with substantially less discomfort.

The main reason I like to use this brace is that it’s unique. There’s no other brace like it.

Dr. Stephen Miller

"Patients that are suffering from pain from arthritis, either on the inside or the outside of the knee, are ideal for these brace. Individuals who want to delay the need for surgery, who want to optimize and maximize their quality of life now and be active with their children, their grandchildren and want to get the most out of their knees until they absolutely have to have surgery. The brace is ideal for that.

The Lethbridge Orthotics braces really are the best of the best.”

Former Chief of Orthopaedic Surgery, Calgary South Health Campus

The 'Terminator' OA knee brace from Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services represents the pinnacle of orthotic innovation for osteoarthritis management. Specifically engineered to alleviate pain and improve mobility, the 'Terminator' utilizes advanced biomechanical principles to offload the affected knee compartment.

Designed through precise digital imaging and custom fabrication in our facility, this brace offers targeted relief, enabling patients to engage in daily activities with significantly reduced discomfort. Ideal for non-surgical intervention, the 'Terminator' provides a viable alternative to delay or prevent the need for surgery, empowering your patients to lead a more active lifestyle.

How does the terminator work?

Knee braces are able to open the narrowed joint space and relieve pain allowing to get back to daily activities virtually pain free

results with the

terminator

Physio, and a same day same office orthopaedic consultation, suggested that, yes, I would need a knee replacement sometime. However, they suggested that perhaps a brace could prolong that surgery significantly.

I haven’t walked this straight for 50 years.This brace has gone with me to Europe a couple of times, hiking in the Kananaskis and playing golf regularly, and I prefer walking my eighteen holes. 

Lester Stehmeier

What an awesome experience! I have been using and wearing a knee brace of different designs and brands for over 30 yrs and the one that I had made at Lethbridge Orthotics is by far and large the best one ever. The fitting and measuring is state of the art, no molds or messy plaster, only tech at its best.

It was just so comfortable and it helped to get back to walking in a much more normal way. If you are struggling with the brace you have now, go and see these folks and I hope that your experience is as fantastic as mine has been.

Darcy mcdonell

Seeking a knee brace for both of my arthritic knees could have been a daunting task but the entire team here was incredible. Front staff made the administration process seamless and Jasmine, with her education and product knowledge, was outstanding. In addition the entire brace is made in-house and built for my fabulous knee issues. I felt like royalty.

jill reid

My husband, and I both have custom knee braces for different conditions from Lethbridge Orthotics. The Administration, and Technicians are helpful, informative, and very personable. The custom brace immediately improved our quality of life. We are in our sixties, and can again enjoy our sports/activities without knee pain.

Ronni & Barbara Rossburger

 Osteoarthritic Offloading Knee Orthoses

Full time use (>6hrs/day) for >6 months
Alberta Resident (personal health care number)
Rx from Specialist or GP + x-ray report confirming OA

cost:

Seniors (≥65) and AISH – 100% coverage
AADL - $500 maximum/family/year (reimbursed by most private insurance)
NIHB - 100% coverage
WCB - 100% coverage

eligibility

Custom orthotics for alignment

 Alignment correction can require anything from:

  • foot orthotics (FOs) 
  • ankle foot orthosis (AFO) 
  • knee orthosis (KO) 
  • knee ankle foot orthosis (KAFO) 
  • or combination thereof

depending on the condition, symptoms, and severity of the malalignment.

shoe solutions

Integrated Footwear and Orthotic Solutions

Located in the same building as Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, Shoe Solutions specializes in expert footwear fitting and alignment, working in tandem to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of orthotic interventions.

This collaboration ensures that each patient receives a holistic approach to foot health, combining precision-fitted shoes and custom orthotics designed to improve comfort, function, and overall mobility.

Professional personalized customer service.
20 years of footwear fitting experience.
Digital measuring of feet
Diabetic footwear available
Located next to Lethbridge Orthotics on 13th St. N. 

Stabilizing knee brace

the elite

The Elite stabilizing knee brace, exclusively available at Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, sets the standard for superior knee support. Engineered with unique materials (carbon fiber and titanium) and a bespoke fit, it's unparalleled in its ability to combine durability with comfort.

Esteemed by both amateur and professional athletes across Canada and the US, The Elite offers unmatched protection and stability, making it the premier choice for those seeking the best in ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL injury recovery and prevention.

  • Custom-made in-house
  • Designed for ACL,PCL, MCL, & LCL
  • Provides optimal control and support
  • Made of carbon fiber and titanium
  • Light and strong (1lb)

the elite quick facts:

custom stabilizing knee brace

coverage criteria for

Full time use (>6hrs/day for >6months)

Eligibility: one of the following & Rx from specialist:

  1. Single ligament tear with meniscus removed or 2 ligaments with 2nd or 3rd degree tears
  2. Vocation with physical demands that requires bracing
  3. Not surgical candidate – age, skeletal maturity, etc
  4. MRI confirms 2 ligament tears and surgery not scheduled for 6 months 
  5. Gross instability following total or partial knee replacement

exos bracing system

custom fit without the custom price

The Exos brace system, featured at Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, revolutionizes traditional bracing with its custom fit capabilities without the custom price tag.

This innovative system is heat formable, waterproof, and reformable, accommodating changes like swelling and atrophy.

Ideal for dynamic and cost-effective orthotic solutions, Exos braces provide robust support and adaptability, making them a favorite among patients requiring both flexibility and durability in their recovery process.

  • Available to treat a variety of upper extremity and lumbar conditions
  • Heat Formable
  • Waterproof
  • Reformable
  • Accommodates swelling & atrophy 
  • Secured with BOA®, a micro-adjustable performance fit system
  • Locking ring option available if not to be removed

exos quick facts:

custom-fit
& off-the-shelf

orthotics

Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services provides a comprehensive range of orthotic devices, expertly selected and fitted by trained orthotists to ensure superior clinical care. Our portfolio includes specialized solutions for the ankle, knee, wrist, and back, each designed to enhance mobility and support recovery for specific conditions.

From robust ankle stabilizers to dynamic knee braces, our products are meticulously selected and customized to offer optimal fit and functionality, crucial for managing everything from simple sprains to complex post-surgical recovery. This professional attention guarantees improved patient outcomes through advanced orthotic technology.

Some of the devices available at Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services and conditions addressed:

  • Aircast Walker: Provides immobilization and protection for lower leg and foot injuries, aiding in faster recovery.
  • Ankle Braces: Ideal for recovery from sprains, Achilles tendonitis, and post-operative care.
  • Knee Braces (Off-the-Shelf and Custom-Fit): For minor or temporary knee strains or sprains, offering support without the need for custom specifications.
  • Wrist Braces: Effective for carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist fractures, and tendonitis.
  • Back Supports: Used for lumbar support, post-surgical recovery, and chronic back pain management.
  • Specialty Devices: Custom solutions for unique conditions such as drop foot, scoliosis, and pediatric developmental issues.

Each device is designed to meet specific medical needs, enhancing recovery and functionality for a range of conditions.

custom-fit device overview:

cranial remolding orthosis

Cranial remolding orthosis is specifically designed for infants to correct skull deformities, such as plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly.

At Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, these custom-fitted helmets are crafted by skilled orthotists, ensuring precise treatment and comfortable fit to guide the natural growth of an infant's skull towards a more normal shape as they grow.

TREATMENT DETAILS:

  • 0-4 months: fastest cranial growth, infant unable to move own head, good time for repositioning
  • 4-7 months: rapid cranial growth (1cm/month), harness growth, cranial remolding orthosis

pediatric orthotics

At Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, we specialize in custom pediatric orthotics tailored to foster the growth and mobility of children facing various medical challenges.

Collaborating closely with healthcare professionals, we ensure that each device not only corrects and supports but also enhances the functional capabilities of our young patients, promoting optimal developmental outcomes.

pediatric orthotics quick facts:

Here is a list of pediatric conditions commonly treated with orthotics:

  • Cerebral Palsy: Supports mobility and muscle development.
  • Spina Bifida: Aids in stability and posture.
  • Clubfoot: Corrects foot positioning for improved gait.
  • Developmental Delay: Enhances motor function and balance.
  • Leg Length Discrepancy: Compensates for growth differences.
  • Scoliosis: Provides spinal support and alignment.
  • Hip Dysplasia: Stabilizes the hip joint during growth.

our state-of-the-art

facility

At Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services, our facility is a hub of innovation and precision, equipped with the latest in orthotic and prosthetic technology. Spanning 7,500 square feet, our clinic includes advanced digital imaging and fabrication tools that allow for meticulous creation and customization of orthotic devices.

Staffed by certified professionals and utilizing cutting-edge materials, our facility ensures that every device meets the highest standards of quality and efficacy, supporting optimal patient outcomes. This technical and professional environment is designed to support the complex needs of healthcare providers and their patients.

clinic quick facts:

  • 6 Clinicians
  • 8 Technicians
  • 6 Administrative staff
  • Supports 20 local families
  • Fabricate devices on-site with proprietary and state of the art technology and materials

Join us on a 1 minute virtual tour of our clinic:

Learn more & work with 

lethbridge orthotic-prosthetic services

and integrate orthotics into your practice

If you are uncertain whether your patient would benefit from bracing, Lethbridge Orthotic-Prosthetic Services offers a no-charge assessment. We will evaluate your patient's needs and provide a detailed report with recommendations and prescription specifics to assist you in making an informed decision.

unsure about the best orthotic solution?

We are committed to supporting the medical community with additional learning opportunities. If you'd like us to conduct a "lunch and learn" session at your clinic, please contact us at 403-328-1144 or email tracy@bracing.ca. These sessions are great for deepening understanding of orthotic practices and exploring new technologies.

interested in further education?

faq for physicians

01

What conditions benefit most from your devices?

We provide tailored solutions for a wide range of conditions including, but not limited to, cerebral palsy, osteoarthritis, scoliosis, and post-operative recovery.

02

How do I refer a patient to your services?

Simply contact our office with patient details and their specific needs, and we will handle the rest, including a comprehensive assessment.

03

What types of orthotics do you offer?

Our offerings range from custom-fitted to off-the-shelf devices for various parts of the body, including spinal orthotics, limb braces, and more.

04

How do you ensure device quality and patient satisfaction?

We utilize state-of-the-art technology for precise measurements and custom fittings, backed by follow-up care to ensure optimal device performance and comfort.

05

Can you provide information for insurance claims?

Yes, we supply all necessary documentation to support insurance claims, including detailed descriptions and justifications for the prescribed orthotics.

Still Have Questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please contact us and ask to speak to one of our clinicians directly. We're happy to help to reach the best patient outcomes.

get in touch