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Recent advancements in commercially available orthotic and prosthetic devices have dramatically improved device capability, regardless of the underlying condition which resulted in the limb loss or limb impairment. However, there remains a need for evaluation of devices and treatments to identify those that provide the most improvement in user functionality and quality of life for our Service Members, Veterans, and all persons living with limb loss or limb impairment.

The Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research Program, OPORP, was established by Congress in fiscal year 2014 to enhance the lives of Service Members, Veterans, and others with limb loss or limb impairment by improving the outcomes of orthotic and prosthetic device implementation. This includes improving the ability to carry out daily activities, enhancing work productivity, and increasing the possibility of returning to duty/work. The OPORP supports research on outcomes-based best practices through analysis of prosthetic and/or orthotic device options that are currently clinically available, and not on the development of new technology or the improvement of an existing technology. Development and employment of new approaches and tools for measuring outcomes is allowed. The goal of the OPORP is to improve our understanding and ultimately advance the implementation of the most effective prescriptions for prosthetic and orthotic devices, treatment, rehabilitation, and secondary health effect prevention options for patients, clinicians, other caregivers, and policymakers.