Orthotist and Prosthetist
Design, fabricate, and fit custom orthopedic braces and artificial limbs to help patients regain mobility and independence.
| Median Salary | $78,310 per year |
| Job Growth (10yr) | +13%Excellent |
| Education | Master's Degree |
| Time to Start | 6-8 years |
Work Settings
- •Private orthotics and prosthetics clinics
- •Hospitals (state, local, and private)
- •Ambulatory healthcare services
- •Rehabilitation centers
- •VA hospitals and federal government facilities
- •Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing facilities
- •Health and personal care retailers
- •Academic institutions
Primary Duties
- •Evaluate patients through comprehensive interviews and physical assessments to determine appropriate orthotic or prosthetic solutions
- •Design custom orthotic and prosthetic devices using 3D scanning technology and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software
- •Fabricate and modify devices using materials like carbon fiber, thermoplastics, and advanced composites
- •Fit devices to patients, making precise adjustments for optimal comfort, function, and alignment
- •Train patients and caregivers on proper use, care, and maintenance of orthotic and prosthetic devices
- •Coordinate care with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers
- •Manage advanced technologies including microprocessor knees, myoelectric systems, and osseointegration components
- •Document patient care, obtain insurance authorizations, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
How to Become Orthotist and Prosthetist
Complete bachelor's degree with prerequisites
Focus on biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, physiology, and psychology with minimum 3.0 GPA
Duration: 48 months
Earn Master's degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics
Must be from CAAHEP-accredited program; includes 500+ hours of supervised clinical experience
Duration: 36 months
Complete NCOPE-accredited residency
12 months for single discipline (orthotics or prosthetics), 18 months for dual certification
Duration: 18 months
Pass national certification exams
Administered by ABC or BOC; includes written and practical components
Duration: 6 months
Obtain state licensure
Required in approximately 17-20 states; typically requires national certification
Duration: 3 months
Begin professional practice
Junior practitioners work under supervision for first 0-2 years
Duration: 24 months
Continuing Education
Certified Orthotists and Prosthetists must maintain their credentials through ongoing continuing education. The American Board for Certification (ABC) requires certified professionals to complete continuing education units (CEUs) and renew their certification periodically. You'll need to stay current with rapidly evolving technologies, including advanced microprocessor systems, new materials, and digital fabrication techniques. Professional organizations like AOPA and AAOP offer workshops, conferences, and online courses to help you meet these requirements and expand your clinical expertise.
Certifications & Licenses
- •Certified Prosthetist (CP) - from ABC or BOC
- •Certified Orthotist (CO) - from ABC or BOC
- •Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist (CPO) - dual certification from ABC or BOC
- •State licensure (required in approximately 17-20 states)
Citations
- Bureau of Labor Statistics - Orthotists and Prosthetists ↗
- American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) ↗
- National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) ↗
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) ↗
- American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA) ↗
- American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) ↗
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