What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orthosis
Example
The patient was fitted with an orthosis to support their weak ankle. [orthosis: noun]
Example
The orthotist created a custom orthosis for the patient's spinal condition. [orthosis: noun]
brace
Example
The athlete wore a knee brace to protect their injured joint. [brace: noun]
Example
The doctor recommended a back brace to correct the patient's posture. [brace: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brace is more commonly used than orthosis in everyday language. Brace is a more specific term that is often used to refer to a device used to support or immobilize a body part after an injury or surgery, while orthosis is a broader term that includes various types of medical devices used to support, align, or correct a body part.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orthosis and brace?
Both orthosis and brace are formal terms that are typically used in medical contexts. However, brace may be more commonly used in informal language due to its versatility and familiarity among the general public.
