Prosthetists and orthotists design, make and fit artificial limbs, braces and splints. These appliances are designed to aid people’s mobility, correct a deformity and substitute for lost limbs. They play an active role in patient rehabilitation, helping them to lead as normal a life as possible.
Prosthetists design and fit artificial limbs (prostheses) for patients who have lost limbs through amputation or were born without a limb. Some prostheses are highly advanced and incorporate electronic or microprocessor-controlled parts or pneumatic or hydraulic mechanisms.
Orthotists design and fit surgical appliances (orthoses), such as braces for arms or legs, callipers, neck collars and splints to support the patient’s limbs or spine, and special footwear and insoles. These aim to relieve patient discomfort, correct physical deformities, aid movement and prevent physical conditions deteriorating.
Prosthetists/orthotists use science, anatomy and engineering skills daily to assess patients and prescribe the most suitable device. Typical duties include:
- assessing patients’ physical capabilities and fitness before deciding on the best artificial limb or appliance to fit
- taking measurements and using digital imagery to create an individual cast, which is used to create the prosthesis or orthosis, ensuring a secure, comfortable device
- designing or selecting different components, using their knowledge of anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, technology and materials
- instructing orthosis manufacturers and prosthetic technicians to assemble and create each item
- fitting the finished prosthesis or orthosis, making sure it is safe and comfortable
- educating patients on fitting and using their device, referring them to physiotherapy for ongoing support
- conducting follow-up checks, making sure the device is working effectively, assessing the physical improvements and making necessary adjustments and repairs.
They work with a wide range of health professionals to provide integrated treatment, including physiotherapists, who oversee patients’ exercise programmes, and occupational therapists, who support and train patients on undertaking daily activities with their new device. Technicians and assistants support the clinical work of prosthetists/orthotists.
Hours and environment
Typical working hours are between 37 and 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Part-time work and flexible working may be available.
Prosthetists are usually based in specialised centres of hospitals that are dedicated to the rehabilitation of patients.
Orthotists are often based in hospital outpatient clinics. They may work in several different hospitals during their working week, as well as visiting schools and centres for people with special needs. A driving licence is essential for many orthotist positions.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salaries in the HSE for newly qualified prosthetists/orthotists are between €28,000 and €30,000 a year.
- With experience, specialists can earn between €35,000 and €45,000 a year.
Skills and personal qualities
Prosthetists/orthotists need to be:
- good at science, particularly human biology and physics
- technically minded and practical, with good manual dexterity
- patient and sensitive and caring towards patients and their families
- creative, with good problem-solving ability
- resourceful and able to use initiative
- accurate, with an eye for detail
- good communicators and listeners
- good working in a larger team alongside other medical practitioners
- confident using IT.
Interests
It is important to have an interest in:
- science, engineering and healthcare
- advancements in technology
- working with people and making a difference to their lives.
Entry routes
Before they can practice and use the title of prosthetist or orthotist, entrants must have an honours degree in prosthetics and orthotics approved by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (BAPO) and the HPC. The approved four-year course is currently available at two UK universities:
- University of Salford, School of Health, Sport and Rehabilitation Sciences
- National Centre for Prosthetics and Orthotics, University of Strathclyde.
The approved degree courses offer a combination of academic study and supervised practical placements at prosthetic and orthotic clinics.
Study covers the human body, the effects of forces on the body (biomechanics), and materials and methods used in manufacturing prostheses and orthoses. Through practical placements, students learn how to assess, diagnose and treat people requiring prosthetic and orthotic care.
Useful Links:
Irish Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists
Health Careers-Prosthetist/orthotist