Health Careers: Orthotist and Prosthetist
Who are orthotists and prosthetists and what do they do?
Orthotists and prosthetists are health professionals who create and order supportive aids for people who have disabling conditions of the limbs or spine. They make sure that these supportive aids – such as braces or artificial limbs – fit correctly for the patient's bone, muscular and nervous system. Orthotists create and fit patients with splints and braces to support weakened body parts and help correct physical defects such as disabilities from a stroke, polio or a spinal cord injury. Prosthetists build customized artificial limbs (legs, arms, hands, etc.) for people who have lost or are missing these body parts. With the appropriate education and training, a person can work as both an orthotist and a prosthetist.
How do orthotists and prosthetists typically spend their workday?
As an orthotist or prothetist, you may work in a hospital, rehabilitation center, doctor's office or health clinic. On an average day, you may use information from an orthopedic doctor's prescription to order a knee brace for a patient with a knee disability. Once the brace comes in, you will fit the patient with the brace to be sure that it works appropriately, and you will answer any questions the patient may have about how to wear or use the brace. During a typical day, you will also cast people for broken bones and take measurements of patients who need artificial limbs. Based on these measurements and the patient's needs, you will either build or order the limb for the patient.
What does it take to be a good orthotist or prothetist?
If you are a careful, thorough person who likes to work with your hands and help others, you should consider training as an orthotist or prosthetist. These professionals study biology, science and computers and also like working with people.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to those of an orthotist and a prothetist?
Biomedical engineer, dental laboratory technician.
Related links and helpful information:
- The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics
- American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists
