Prosthetist/Orthotist

Every year more than 125,000 people lose a limb due to accident or disease and need special devices to help them walk and regain active lives. Prosthetists, or orthotists, fit, develop, and make replacement limbs (prostheses) and braces (orthoses) for patients. They work with computers, drills, hammers, rotary saws, and other hand machines to cut, grind, carve, and bend a variety of materials to make the devices. Prosthetists concentrate on measurement, impression taking, model refitting, postoperative management, and external power and alignment of sockets related to various amputation levels. Orthotists use the same skills to create orthoses for lower limbs, upper limbs, and the spine.

Work Environment
Prosthetists and orthotists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and in private practice.

Job Outlook
The job outlook is excellent. A national shortage of trained prosthetists and orthotists has created a strong demand for these professionals.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Individuals wishing to enter this field must earn a bachelor's degree. After graduating from an accredited educational program, students may also complete a residency program. The professional curriculum includes formal instruction in biomechanics, gait analysis/pathomechanics, kinesiology, pathology, materials science, research methods, diagnostic imaging techniques, measurement, impression taking, model rectification, diagnostic fitting, postoperative management, external power, static and dynamic alignment of sockets, fitting and alignment of orthoses, and clinical experience.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $33,000 - $62,000.

Educational Programs
Bachelor's Degree
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas

Professional Associations
American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP)
1650 King St., Ste. 500
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/836-7114

American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABCOP)
1650 King St., Ste. 500
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/836-7114