Overview
Orthotists or Prosthetists design, build, fit and repair splints, braces, callipers, artificial limbs and related appliances to restore function or compensate for muscular and skeletal disabilities.
Day-to-day
- examines the patient and takes the necessary measurements to create an artificial limb, brace, splint or other related appliance
- reads prescriptions for limbs and other related devices
- makes a plaster cast of the limb or abnormality
- designs limbs or related appliances
- makes the device or limb and supervises its construction or selects a commercially-made product and adjusts it to fit the patient
- fits the device or limb to the patient
- instructs the patient on the use and care of the device or limb
- carries out repairs and follow-ups with the patient to evaluate the effectiveness of an artificial limb or device.
To become an Orthotist and Prosthetist
You need a university degree in applied science or health science majoring in prosthetics and orthotics to work as an Orthotist or Prosthetist. Postgraduate studies may also be useful.
Skills employers are looking for
