Prosthetists and Orthotists

Prosthetists and Orthotists give back the power of movement to their patients, in a way that’s as pain-free as possible and use the latest technology to create and fit prostheses or aids.

You will create and fit prostheses or aids for people of all ages requiring artificial limb replacements, and work with people whose limbs are not functioning well. Using a range of aids, you will work to relieve pain and correct and/or compensate for damage in nerves, bones and muscles while improving mobility and function.

Role Characteristics

Assess people to understand their problems and determine how a medical device can help improve their movement and quality of life
Assess joint range of movements and muscle strengths
Create a treatment plan and agree goals going forward which may include a prosthesis (artificial limbs) or orthosis (brace)
Prescribe, measure, engineer and design a prosthesis, orthosis and footwear to meet the needs identified
Fit people with their prosthesis/orthosis
Work with other health care professionals to deliver the best care

Skills

Decision-making
Empathy
Operating equipment
Using technology
Communication
Working under pressure

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out more about life as an Orthotist.

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

Maths and English skills

GCSEs

A-Levels

An apprenticeship

Undergraduate degree

How to become

There are many routes into Prosthetists and Orthotists.

You will normally need 5 GCSEs including English, maths and sciences, or equivalent.
You will need 2 or 3 A Levels including maths, physics, biology/human biology. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers. You could also have equivalent qualifications such as a BTEC, T level or NVQ.
You could have a previous degree or full practicing qualification in a related area.

To practice as a Prosthetists/Orthotists, you must be registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC).

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

You may choose to specialise in sports injury, diabetes, neurological conditions, or working with children. Teaching, research and management are other career pathways.