Questions we hear a lot
If your question isn't here, ask us directly — we'd rather talk it through.
Getting started
You do not always need a referral to book an assessment. Some medical aids and funders ask for a doctor's referral or prescription before they pay, so check with your scheme, and bring any letters, X-rays or reports you have.
Your ID and medical aid card, any referral letter or medical reports, the shoes you wear most often, and any brace or prosthesis you use now.
Eldomed Centre, 1286 Willem Botha Drive, Suite 3, Eldoraigne, Centurion, 0157. See the Contact page for a map and directions.
Baby helmets
Yes. We are a Starband-certified provider in Centurion. Book an assessment or WhatsApp us on 061 902 0850.
No. The helmet is custom-made, padded and adjusted at follow-ups so it stays comfortable. It is designed to touch the head only where the shape needs guiding and to leave room where the head can grow into the flat areas.
Results vary with age, severity and how closely the schedule is followed. We will give you an honest view at your assessment.
Treatment is most effective earlier, but we are happy to assess older babies and advise honestly on what to expect.
Yes. It is designed to be worn during sleep.
Yes, we see families from across Gauteng and beyond. Tell us where you live and we will plan the visit schedule around you.
We advise on keeping your baby comfortable in summer, including dressing your baby lightly, checking the skin and taking the helmet off for cleaning. Ask us about the ventilation of your baby's helmet at the fitting.
Children
Children grow in spurts, so devices need regular checks. Many can be adjusted for a while before a new one is needed. We plan reviews around your child's growth and tell you early when a replacement is coming.
It depends on your child's age and the device. Young children are usually seen every few months; older children less often. Come in sooner if the brace leaves red marks that do not fade, or no longer fits in their shoes.
Usually, yes. Most braces are worn at school, and we talk through sport and play for your child's brace. We can provide a letter for the school if it helps.
Braces
Prefabricated braces can often be fitted at the same visit. Custom braces are made from your cast or scan and usually take a couple of weeks, depending on the brace and funder approval.
Most foot and ankle braces fit in a supportive shoe with a removable insole, sometimes a size larger. Bring the shoes you wear most often and we will advise.
Many plans cover orthoses under an appliance benefit, often with limits and pre-authorisation. We send a quotation and motivation and help with the claim. See how funding works.
Your doctor sets the target, which is often many hours a day, including at night. We help you build up gradually and check comfort along the way.
Yes. Most spinal braces are designed to be worn under everyday clothing, usually over a thin, close-fitting vest.
We review the brace regularly, often every few months for growing children, and adjust or replace it as you grow or your needs change.
Prosthetic legs
It depends on how your limb heals, your health and your fitness. Many people start walking with a first prosthesis a few months after amputation and keep improving with practice and physiotherapy.
A prosthesis often lasts a few years, but sockets may need changing sooner as your limb changes, especially in the first year. Components wear with use and are serviced or replaced as needed. Children need replacements as they grow.
Many people do. Swimming and running usually need an activity-specific prosthesis. Driving may need car adaptations depending on which leg is affected; check with your doctor and insurer.
We see patients from across Gauteng and beyond. Tell us where you live and we will plan fewer, longer appointments where we can.
New amputees: before your fitting
- Control swelling with a shrinker sock or bandaging as your team advises
- Keep your hip and knee straight when resting to prevent stiffness
- Gently handle and massage your residual limb to desensitise the skin
- Keep your skin and scar clean and dry
- Stay active and keep up your physiotherapy
Looking after your emotional wellbeing matters too. Ask your doctor about support if you are struggling.
Many people keep crutches or a wheelchair for night-time, long distances or days when the limb is sore, even once they walk well with a prosthesis.
Yes. Microprocessor knees and feet suit some people, depending on activity level, health and funding. We will advise honestly whether one is likely to help you.
Breast care
Not always to book, but many medical aids need a doctor's prescription to pay. Ask your surgeon or oncologist for one and bring it to your fitting.
Of course. You are welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member.
Breast forms usually last around two years, and bras wear sooner. How often your medical aid pays for replacements depends on your plan; we can check for you.
Funding
Most schemes cover prostheses under a prosthesis or appliance benefit, often with an annual limit and pre-authorisation. We provide a quotation and motivation and follow up with your scheme.
Yes, and we help with the paperwork, including quotations, reports and motivation letters.
We talk through the options before you decide, including prefabricated devices where suitable. Ask for a quotation at your assessment.
Still have a question?
Our prosthetists and orthotists are happy to talk it through before you commit to anything.