Prosthetists design and fit artificial limbs (prostheses) to replace limbs that have either been lost through amputation or which were missing at birth.

Orthotists design and fit surgical appliances (orthoses) such as braces, callipers, neck collars and splints, which support the patient’s limbs or spine to relieve pain, aid movement or prevent the worsening of physical conditions. The orthosis may be worn permanently by the patient or used temporarily until they no longer need them.

During their work with patients, prosthetists and orthotists are likely to do some or all of the following:

• assess a patient to see how much they are able or unable to do
• take detailed measurements
• create a plaster cast of the user’s limb or torso to which the prosthesis or orthosis would be fitted
• use shape sensing tracings to produce a cast
• use their knowledge of anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, materials and technology to design a suitable device
• with a finished design, they will instruct a technician to produce it.

They carry out follow up checks on the user to see how they are coping with their device and make sure that it is functioning well. Any necessary adjustments and repairs can then be made.

They work as part of a clinical team, liaising with the physiotherapist overseeing the user’s exercise regime, the occupational therapist training the user how to perform daily activities with the device, and a consultant.

Hours and Environment

Prosthetists/orthotists usually work Monday to Friday, 37 to 40 hours a week. It may be possible to work some overtime or extra hours. Part-time or flexible hours may also be available.

They are usually based within a specialised centre of a hospital dedicated to the rehabilitation of patients.

There may be some fumes and dirt created during the manufacturing process.

Skills and Interests

As a prosthetist/orthotist you will need:

• an interest in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics
• technical and practical skills
• creativity - be able to design and make devices to solve technical problems
• the ability to empathise with patients and their families
• the ability to communicate well with people from all backgrounds
• the ability to work well in a team
• good IT skills - computer and microprocessor technology is becoming an increasingly important tool of the job.

Entry

To qualify and register as a prosthetist or orthotist you need to take a four-year BSc (Hons) degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics approved by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists, and the Health Professions Council. The approved degree course is available at two universities in the UK:

• University of Salford - School of Health Care Professions
• University of Strathclyde - The National Centre for Training and Education in Prosthetics and Orthotics.

The entry requirements for the course are usually five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including English, mathematics and a science-based subject, plus three A levels/H grades including mathematics and either biology, physics or chemistry. Alternative qualifications may also be accepted. Please check with universities for exact entry requirements.

Training

Training to become a prosthetist and orthotist takes four years and leads to a BSc (Honours) degree. When you have completed the degree, you are qualified to practise in both prosthetics and orthotics. As a graduate you can specialise or practise in both areas.

The degree course combines academic studies, practical and clinical training, along with clinical experience. Subjects studied include:

• life sciences
• mechanics and biomechanics
• professional development studies
• prosthetic and orthotic science
• maths and statistics
• design and graphical communication
• electrotechnology
• computer science
• materials technology.

The University of Strathclyde offer postgraduate certificate, diploma and MSc qualifications in rehabilitation studies, available by open-learning. Entry requirements usually include an Honours degree in an appropriate subject or alternative professional qualifications. Research degrees are also available. Contact the Centre for details; see Further Information.

Opportunities

Prosthetists and orthotists usually work for commercial orthotic or prosthetic service manufacturing companies contracted to the NHS, although there are an increasing number of opportunities for employment within the NHS.

Opportunities exist to work abroad with, for example, overseas health organisations and manufacturing and servicing companies, British companies with overseas bases, and voluntary organisations such as the Red Cross.

There is a world-wide shortage of graduate prosthetists and orthotists. UK courses have an internationally renowned reputation.

With experience, they may be able to progress to senior and managerial posts. Other opportunities include research and development.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Salaries usually start at around £22,000.
With experience, prosthetists/orthotists can earn around £32,000.
Senior prosthetists/orthotists can earn up to around £50,000.

Further information

University of Strathclyde
Curran Building
131 St James Road
Glasgow
G4 0LS Tel: 08000 150 850
Email: learning@nhscareers.nhs.uk PO Box 376
Bristol
BS99 3EY
Tel: 0845 606 0655 University of Salford
School of Health Care Professions
Frederick Road
Salford
M6 6PU Sir James Clark Building
Abbey Mill Business Centre
Paisley
PA1 1TJ