Orthotists & Prosthetists
Also called: Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist (CPO), Certified Prosthetist (CP), Orthotist/Prosthetist, Orthotist
What they do:
Design, measure, fit, and adapt orthopedic braces, appliances or prostheses, such as limbs or facial parts for patients with disabling conditions.
On the job, you would:
- Examine, interview, and measure patients to determine their appliance needs and to identify factors that could affect appliance fit.
- Construct and fabricate appliances or supervise others constructing the appliances.
- Fit, test, and evaluate devices on patients, and make adjustments for proper fit, function, and comfort.
Knowledge
Business
- customer service
- management
Health
- medicine and dentistry
- therapy and counseling
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
- manufacture and distribution of products
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Skills
Basic Skills
- talking to others
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- looking for ways to help people
- understanding people's reactions
Abilities
Verbal
- communicate by speaking
- listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
- use rules to solve problems
Hand and Finger Use
- put together small parts with your fingers
- hold or move items with your hands
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include
helping people, teaching, and talking.
helping people, teaching, and talking.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Integrity
- Concern for Others
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Self Control
- Cooperation
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Medical software
- Gait analysis software
- OPIE Practice Management Suite
Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD software
- Ohio Willow Wood OMEGA Tracer System
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Education
master's degree or
bachelor's degree
usually needed
bachelor's degree
usually needed
These apprenticeships may have sponsors in your area:
- Orthotist
- Prosthetist
Job Outlook
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
$65,250
per year, on average
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