Introduction
Prosthetists and orthotists provide care for anyone requiring an artificial limb (prosthesis) or a device to support or control part of the body (orthosis). They will also advise on rehabilitation.
Orthotists provide a range of splints, braces and special footwear to aid movement, correct deformity and relieve discomfort.
Prosthetists provide the best possible artificial replacement for patients who have lost or were born without a limb. A prosthetic limb should feel and look like a natural limb.
The role of the Prosthetist
Prosthetists and orthotists provide care for anyone requiring an artificial limb (prosthesis) or a device to support or control part of the body (orthosis). They will also advise on rehabilitation.
Orthotists provide a range of splints, braces and special footwear to aid movement, correct deformity and relieve discomfort.
Prosthetists provide the best possible artificial replacement for patients who have lost or were born without a limb. A prosthetic limb should feel and look like a natural limb.
The role of the orthotist
An essential part of the orthotists job is to assess the patients problem. A prescription is formulated in conjunction with colleagues, such as doctors, physiotherapists, chiropodists, and orthotic technicians and you will then design the orthosis.
As an orthotist you may work in one or several hospitals. You will often work in a clinic as part of an out-patient service and also visit other centres to provide a service for people with special needs.
You will be dealing with people of all ages. For instance children who have cerebral palsey may require fabricated splints to help them walk and many older people need special footwear and insoles to treat deformities.
If damaged, any part of the human skeleton may require some form of orthosis. The orthosis may be needed to reposition the body or to provide relief from discomfort.
You will be responsible for taking careful and precise measurements of the patient and supervise the making, fitting and adjustment of the orthosis, as well as educating them in fitting and using their orthosis.
