Prosthetist and orthotist
Prosthetists and orthotists use the latest technology to create devices that help patients move without pain.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your duties will depend on whether you work as a prosthetist, an orthotist or a mix of both.
As a prosthetist, you'll create and fit artificial limb replacements.
As an orthotist, you'll use technology to correct problems with nerves, muscles and bones.
Prosthetic and orthotic tasks
In a role with a mixture of prosthetic and orthotic work, you'll typically:
- work out what a patient needs before a device is made or fitted
- discuss treatment plans with physiotherapists and surgeons
- work with technicians to make the final product using computer software
- check that the appliance or limb is comfortable and working properly
- check how a patient is coping with their device and make changes or repairs if needed
Working environment
You could work at a health centre, at a client's home or in an NHS or private hospital.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- manage a team of prosthetists and orthotists
- specialise in a certain area, such as sports injuries, diabetes injuries or children's prosthetics
- teach trainee prosthetists and orthotists
- move into researching and developing new products
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of medicine
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- excellent verbal communication skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of psychology
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
How to become
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
You can do a degree in prosthetics and orthotics.
Your degree must be approved by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists and the Health and Care Professions Council.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
More Information
You could take a Prosthetist and Orthotist Level 6 Integrated Degree Apprenticeship to become a prosthetist and orthotist.
You could start by taking a Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. This would allow you to become a technician, supporting prosthetists and orthotists. After this, you may be able to move onto the level 6 degree apprenticeship to progress to a prosthetist and orthotist.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
More Information
Further information
You can get more advice about a career as a prosthetist and orthotist from Health Careers and the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists.
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This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.