Prosthetist

What is a prosthetist?

A prosthetist is a healthcare professional who specializes in designing, fabricating, and fitting prosthetic limbs for individuals who have lost a limb or were born without one.

What does a prosthetist do?

Usually, a prosthetist does the following:

• Works with patients to assess their needs and create a personalized prosthetic limb
• Takes measurements and creates a mold or model to ensure a proper fit
• Selects materials and components to construct the prosthetic limb
• Fits and adjusts the prosthetic limb to ensure comfort and functionality for the patient
• Provides ongoing support and maintenance of prosthetic limbs

What does the day-to-day life of a prosthetist look like?

A prosthetist usually works in a clinic or hospital setting. Their day-to-day tasks may include:

• Evaluating patients and discussing their goals and needs
• Taking measurements and creating molds or models for prosthetic limbs
• Constructing and fitting prosthetic limbs
• Making adjustments to ensure proper alignment and fit
• Providing ongoing care and maintenance for prosthetic limbs

Where does a prosthetist work?

Prosthetists work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals: Prosthetists may work in hospital prosthetic departments, assisting patients who have undergone amputation surgeries.
• Rehabilitation Clinics: Prosthetists may work in specialized rehabilitation clinics, helping individuals regain mobility and independence through prosthetic limbs.
• Private Practices: Some prosthetists may choose to work in their own private practices, serving clients in their local communities.

What tools/software/hardware does a prosthetist use?

A prosthetist uses a variety of tools and equipment, including:

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software: This software helps prosthetists design and create prosthetic limb models digitally.
• Prosthetic materials and components: These include materials such as carbon fiber, silicone, and lightweight metals, as well as different types of sockets, joints, and connectors.

What do I need to become a prosthetist?

To become a prosthetist, you can take the following paths:

• Bachelor's Degree: Some prosthetists start by earning a Bachelor's degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics, which typically takes 3-4 years to complete.
• Master's Degree: Others pursue a Master's degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics, which takes an additional 2 years of study after completing a Bachelor's degree.
• Apprenticeship/Training Program: Some individuals may enter the field through apprenticeships or training programs offered by prosthetic clinics or hospitals. These programs provide hands-on experience and practical training under the supervision of experienced prosthetists.

What career paths are available?

There are several career paths available for prosthetists, including:

• Lead Prosthetist/Orthotist: A lead prosthetist/orthotist takes on a supervisory role and may oversee a team of prosthetists and orthotists. They may also be responsible for managing a clinic or department.
• Research and Development: Some prosthetists choose to work in research and development, where they contribute to the development of new prosthetic technologies and innovations.
• Academia/Education: Prosthetists can pursue careers in academia, teaching and mentoring future prosthetists and conducting research in the field.

What jobs are similar to a prosthetist?

• Orthotist: An orthotist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the design, fabrication, and fitting of orthotic devices, such as braces and supports, to help individuals with musculoskeletal conditions.
• Physical Therapist: Physical therapists help people regain movement and function through various exercises and therapies. They often work closely with prosthetists to assist in the rehabilitation process for individuals with prosthetic limbs.