Medical Orthotist Prosthetist Career Description
Medical orthotist prosthetists are concerned with the design, manufacturing and fitting of splints, braces, surgical appliances (orthotics) and artifidallimbs (prosthetics). Orthotist prosthetists are members of rehabilitation teams, and enable people suffering from disabilities to live as normal as possible.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
An orthosis assists or takes over the function of a joint or part of the human anatomy that is either deformed or does not function correctly. This can encompass the entire system such as the hands, shoulders, hips and knees.
A prosthesis replaces a missing part of the body due to birth, accident or disease. Generally the predominant parts affected are the legs, although a prosthesis may be made to replace missing arms, hands etc.
Medical orthotist prosthetists work in a team with surgeons, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and nursing staff. They also deal directly with patients. Surgeons diagnose the
problems patients are experiencing and send prescriptions to orthotist prosthetists, setting out the treatment the patients are to receive. Medical orthotist prosthetists usually discuss these prescriptions and the technology available to treat the patients, with the surgeons, before they design and manufacture suitable orthotics prosthetics for the individual patients.
In order to create orthotics prosthetics that are both well-fitting and functional, medical orthotist prosthetists examine patients' disabilities, take measurements and make plaster moulds. of the affected areas.
Once the orthotics prosthetics have been manufactured, they are fitted to the patients . Adjustments are made until both patients and orthotist prosthetists are fully satisfied with the results.
Appliances once made from steel and leather are replaced by plastics and materials such as carbon fibres, acrylic resin, titanium and silicon, which make it possible to manufacture lighter, more functional and esthetical orthotics prosthetics. The technological advancement made in electronics makes it possible for medical orthotist prosthetists to manufacture prosthetics that function electronically.
Orthotist prosthetists may spend quite some time instructing patients on the use of the orthotics prosthetics, in co-operation with occupational therapists.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Prospective orthotist prosthetists should show a genuine interest in working with people with physical disabilities. They should show understanding when dealing with people and should be psychologically well adjusted with a positive approach towards life. An ability to inspire confidence is important. Biomechanical insight enables these professionals to design orthotics and prosthetics that are practical and successful. Practical skill is an indispensable quality, since a large part of their task involves the actual manufacturing of orthotics and prosthetics. Artistic skills are therefore also an advantage.
Where can I work?
Orthotist prosthetists may find employment at hospitals, government departments and other private institutions.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Medical orthotist prosthetists can start their own private practices.
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