The Profession of Prosthetics and Orthotics

The profession of prosthetics and orthotics helps people whose lives have been impacted by limb loss or other disabilities. Professionals in the field help individuals get back their independence by evaluating and fitting custom-made appliances to restore function, mobility and confidence. The job includes analyzing, designing and manufacturing prosthetics and orthotics devices that help patients return to daily activities and work. The prosthetic companies New Jersey often collaborate with physicians, therapists and other health care professionals to improve outcomes and patient satisfaction.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the prosthetics & orthotics industry differently than most other sectors. Companies that manufacture and distribute orthotic and prosthetic equipment reported a stable demand for the rest of 2021 and a continued recovery in 2022. This is largely due to a reduction in physical activity as well as the cancellation of elective surgeries during the pandemic.

Aspiring prosthetic and orthotic technicians must complete an accredited O&P master’s program to gain the necessary skills to succeed in this career. The requirements for an O&P master’s program vary from university to university, but most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree. Prerequisite courses include biology with lab, chemistry, physics, psychology, statistics, human anatomy and physiology, and introductory courses in prosthetics and orthotics.

An O&P master’s degree requires students to perform clinical work under the supervision of licensed clinicians and professors. Most of this work takes place at a prosthetic and orthotic clinic on campus or in the community. These clinics provide the opportunity for O&P students to develop skills in assessing and measuring, fabricating, and fitting a variety of patient cases. Students also have the opportunity to participate in research projects that may lead to a dissertation or scholarly publication.

In addition to a master’s degree, many employers require a professional license for orthotic and prosthetic technicians. This licensure enables them to practice in their field in accordance with state regulations. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, but most jurisdictions have regulations similar to those for other allied health fields. In addition to having a valid professional license, some states have licensing requirements that cover continuing education and ongoing competency.

A prosthetics & orthotics doctor is a medical practitioner who specializes in making and fitting artificial limbs (prostheses) for individuals who have lost a limb due to injury, disease or birth defect. A prosthetics & orthotics doctor’s duties are to evaluate, design and fit the best possible artificial limb for each individual patient. The NewJersey prosthetics doctor is skilled in designing and fabricating different types of artificial limbs, including lower and upper extremity prostheses, knee-ankle-foot (KAFO) braces, splints, and a variety of other medical devices.

A prosthetics & orthotics doctor can work for a private company, the government, or a non-profit. The type of work they do depends on the organization, but all prosthetics & orthotics doctors must be licensed to perform their jobs. Some prosthetics & orthotics doctors also focus on research and are published authors. Most insurance policies cover prosthetic and orthotic services. Check with your health insurance provider to learn more about your coverage. Click here for more info: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthotist.