More Information About Orthotics & Prosthetics
- Orthotics and prosthetics is the practice of fitting and creating artificial limbs for patients.
- Options in this field depend on the level of education.
- There is a great need for orthotists and prosthetists.
What does a career in Orthotics and Prosthetics offer?
Prosthetists and orthotists are actually health professionals who work in separate, but related, areas of expertise. Orthotists provide a range of splints, braces and special footwear to aid the movement and correct a deformity that may cause discomfort. Prosthetists provide the best possible artificial replacement for patients who have lost or were born without a limb. Patients who benefit from the work of a prosthetician or orthotician usually have a physical impairment due to a stroke, spinal cord injury, or a congenital abnormality such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy. They are fitted with an artificial piece to help them live more normal lives, and then are taught through reabilitation how to use this new addition to their body. Most prosthetists and orthotists work in hospitals or clinics.
What is the job outlook for Orthotics and Prosthetics ?The National Health Interview Survey indicates that one in eight Americans have disabling conditions that interfere with life activities. Therefore, there is a growing need for orthotic and prosthetic professionals. Currently 100% of O&P program graduates find employment.
What is the salary for a career in Orthotics and Prosthetics?Salaries in this field depend on the amount of specialized training a individual has completed. The average yearly salary for a non-certified, licensed orthotist or prosthetist is $56,040 and for an ABC-Certified orthotist or prosthetist, the average salary is $91,452. The average yearly salary for an ABC registered technicians is around $40,000, and the average salary for fitters is $34,386.
How does one get into a career in Orthotics and Prosthetics?There is a great need for orthotists and prosthetists. There are many different pathways into the field of orthotics and prosthetics. An individual can become an ABC certified practitioner, an assistant, a fitter, or a technician. Becoming a practitioner involves earning a bachelor's degree, completing a graduate level program in orthotics and prosthetics, and passing the American Board exam for Certification. Training programs have limited spaces and are highly competitive. Having relevant experience, such as volunteering in a clinic, helps in the admission process. Registered assistants can be trained on the job by a practitioner for three years, or may complete an accredited orthotic-prosthetic assistant program at a vocational school. ABC registered orthotic fitters are trained and licensed through an accredited fitter program. Technicians are required to have a high school diploma and a formal technician training certificate from an accredited program.
What are the leading schools offering programs in Orthotics & Prosthetics ?Find Schools offering Orthotics & Prosthetics Degree Programs
