ORTHOTIST & PROSTHETIC TECHNICIAN

Orthotist and/or prosthetic technicians assist the orthotist/prosthetist in constructing and fitting appliances for body deformities and missing limbs. An orthotist technician helps make and repair orthopedic braces, corrective shoes and other supports to help support weak areas of the body or to correct physical defects. A prosthetic technician assists the prosthetist in making and fitting artificial limbs. Sometimes a person is trained to do both prosthetic and orthotist work.

HOW DO I BECOME AN ORTHOTIST AND/OR PROSTHETIC TECHNICIAN?

General college preparatory courses in science, mathematics, social studies and English are recommended while in high school. Courses in sculpture, woodworking, metalwork, and leatherwork are helpful.

High school graduation or its equivalency (GED) is required to apply for an orthotist or prosthetic technician training program. Candidates are trained through formal vocational technical training which involves 2 years of study, or trained on the job, which usually takes three to four years. After training, graduates must pass an examination by the American Board of Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics to become a registered orthotist/prosthetic technician.

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN SCHOOL?

On-the job apprenticeship programs for prosthetic technicians usually include training in how to use and repair tools and equipment; how to work with various materials such as wood, plastic, plaster and fabric, plastic sheeting and leather; instruction on workshop safety; how to take patient measurements; and how to fit, construct and repair artificial limbs and/or support devices. Formal education programs for Orthotists include course work in basic engineering drawing, geometry, applied anatomy, biology, kinesiology, and biomechanics.

LIFE AFTER GRADUATION

The employment outlook for orthotist and prosthetic technicians is excellent through the next decade. Both orthotist and prosthetic technicians work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and businesses that make and sell orthotic and prosthetic devices.

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:

American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics
330 John Carlyle St, Suite 210
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 836- 0838
www.abcop.org