Physical Rehabilitation

Orthotic fabrication for kids

Orthotic fabrication for children can be quite challenging for all parties involved. How do you get kids to cooperate with orthotic wear? How do you make sure the orthosis will stay put on their extremity? And how do you make an orthosis on a child that can’t sit still? Here are some guidelines to make the process easier for you and your young client.

Age-Based Considerations

Always assess the child’s age and developmental stage.
Create a quiet, distraction-free environment for fabrication.
Allow the child to eat or play quietly during preparation.
Keep parents informed to reduce their anxiety.

Comfort Through Play

Let the child and parents touch and explore a small piece of thermoplastic.
Create an orthosis for a toy or doll to help the child relate.

Personalized Appeal

Use bright colors and materials that appeal to different age groups.
For young children: animal-themed orthoses with faces.
For teens: colors matching sports teams or schools.
Add stickers or jewelry for personalization.

We do kiddie splints. This very brave boy came in for a splint for his elbow. He did so well and we loved making this fun green number.

@hand.therapy.group

Working with children, having access to all these fun and colorful options makes a big difference. Sometimes they don’t even want to take the splint off because it’s just too cool! Watching her recreate her own therapy in play with her doll was a beautiful reminder of how deeply kids understand, and how their journeys can inspire the sweetest moments.

@julia.rhb.to

When a child feels confident wearing their splint, adherence to treatment naturally improves.

@jorge_to_zgz

Encouraging Wear Time

Involve the child and family in schedule planning.
Provide clear instructions in various formats (written, verbal, pictorial).
Use sticker charts as rewards.
Label and differentiate multiple orthoses.
Demonstrate donning and doffing; record this if helpful.

Participation & Comfort

Let the child choose colors and strapping.
Allow them to engage in a favorite activity while wearing the orthosis.

Secure Fit for Kids

Use secure strapping (buckles, zippers, buttons) placed dorsally.
Additional solutions:
- Cover with a sleeve, stockinet, or tube sock.
- Wrap with an Ace bandage or Coban®.
- Tie with shoelaces on the dorsal side.
- Use shoelace-tying aids like Bow Biters.

Growth & Custom Needs

Frequently check the fit due to rapid growth.
Customize design and interventions for each unique child.

TIP: These strategies are also suitable for children with mental and/or physical disabilities.

Related Product Groups

Orfit® Colors NS

Brighten therapy sessions with Orfit Colors NS. Bold colors and perfect fit make patients feel confident, comfortable, and proud to wear their orthosis.