My name is Raoule , and I am a student in the Orthotics and Prosthetics program. This glossary is for students and beginners who wants to learn the basic tools, materials, and devices we use in my program.
It includes 20 terms with definitions, example sentences, French translations, and images. I chose the words from class notes, and rewrote the definitions in more simple words.
This glossary will help students understand technical vocabulary and use it in real life. I want you to read it, understand the terms, and use it.
Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)
noun
A brace that supports the ankle and foot.
Example: The child wore an AFO to improve walking.
fr: orthèse de cheville et de pied
Cast saw
noun
A special saw used to cut through plaster or fiberglass casts.
Example: The cast saw was used to remove the cast safely.
fr: scie à plâtre
Dynamic foot
noun
A prosthetic foot designed to store and release energy.
Example: The dynamic foot made walking more natural.
fr: pied dynamique
Foam padding
noun
Soft material used inside orthoses and prostheses for comfort.
Example: Foam padding protected the patient’s skin.
fr: rembourrage en mousse
Footplate
noun
The flat part at the bottom of an orthosis or prosthesis that supports the foot.
Example: The footplate helped distribute pressure evenly
fr: plaque plantaire
Grinding machine
noun
A machine used to smooth and shape plaster or plastic.
Example: He finished the orthosis using the grinding machine.
fr: Rectifieuse
Heat gun
noun
A tool that blows hot air to shape plastic sheets.
Example: The heat gun softened the plastic before molding.
fr: pistolet thermique
Hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (HKAFO)
noun
A brace that supports the hip, knee, ankle, and foot.
Example: The therapist recommended an HKAFO for extra stability.
fr: orthèse de hanche-genou-cheville-pied
Knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO)
noun
A brace that supports the knee, ankle, and foot.
Example: The patient used a KAFO after his injury.
fr: orthèse de genou-cheville-pied
Liner
noun
A soft sleeve worn on the limb inside a prosthesis for cushioning.
Example: The patient wore a silicone liner inside the socket.
fr: manchon
Plaster bandage
noun
A medical gauze bandage impregnated with plaster of Paris (gypsum powder) that hardens after being exposed to water.
Example: The orthotist wrapped a plaster bandage around the leg to capture its shape.
fr: Bandage plâtré
Positive mold
noun
A solid copy of the limb made after filling a plaster cast.
Example: The technician shaped the brace using the positive mold.
fr: moule positif
Prosthetic socket
noun
The part of a prosthesis that fits around the residual limb.
Example: A comfortable socket is important for daily use.
fr: emboîture prothétique
Pylon
noun
The metal or carbon tube that connects the socket to the prosthetic foot.
Example: The pylon gave stability to the artificial leg.
fr: pylône
Resin
noun
A liquid material that hardens into strong plastic for sockets.
Example: The technician laminated the socket with resin.
fr: résine
Rivet
noun
A small metal pin used to join parts of braces or prostheses.
Example: The joint was secured with a rivet.
fr: rivet
Strap
noun
a strip of leather, cloth, or other flexible material, often with a buckle, used to fasten, secure, or carry something or to hold onto something.
Example: The strap held the brace in place.
fr: sangle
Thermoplastic
noun
Plastic that softens when heated and can be reshaped.
Example: The brace was made from thermoplastic for easy adjustment.
fr: thermoplastique
Vacuum pump
noun
A machine that removes air to form plastic tightly around a mold.
Example: The vacuum pump was used to make the socket.
fr: pompe à vide
Workshop oven
noun
A heating machine used to soften plastic for molding.
Example: The workshop oven heated the thermoplastic.