Prosthetists and Orthotists

What is a career as a prosthetist or orthotist in healthcare?

Prosthetists are healthcare professionals who design and fit artificial limbs (prostheses) for people with limb loss, helping them regain mobility and function. They use their expertise in mechanics, biomechanics, and material science, combined with knowledge of anatomy and physiology, to create prostheses tailored to each patient’s needs. Prosthetists work with patients who have lost limbs due to conditions like diabetes, vascular issues, infection, trauma, or congenital differences. They are part of multidisciplinary teams, often collaborating with physiotherapists and occupational therapists in rehabilitation.

Orthotists design and fit braces and supports (orthoses) to assist patients with problems affecting their muscles, nerves, or skeletal system. Using similar training to prosthetists, they create devices that improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent or treat issues like ulcers or gait deviations. Orthotists help people with conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, cerebral palsy, stroke, scoliosis, and injuries. Their work enables patients to move more safely and comfortably, supporting their overall quality of life.