Orthotic and Prosthetic Technicians : Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Submitted by: paula
Job Overview Weak body parts are being treated by using prosthetic or orthotic devices. Musculoskeletal disorders, muscular paralysis and dislocations are common problems that require the use of these devices for treatment. Splints and braces were used in the 17th century to treat deformities. It was during this time, that single metal hooks and wooden hands where used to replace lost hands. Modern technology is the reason why the designs and materials that are used now are more lifelike, sophisticated and useful. Specialist that fit, make, maintain and repair prosthetic and orthotic device are called medical appliance technicians or orthotic and prosthetic technician.
Education, Knowledge and Trainings Required
An applicant will have strong background in orthotics and prosthetics when they have taken courses in wood shop, machine shop and metal shop. This provides them information and knowledge with the tool and materials that they will use in their professional practice. Eye-hand coordination will be enhanced when taking Art classes. Knowledge in human structure is needed so courses in Health, Anatomy and Biology will be beneficial. Those who are aspiring to be in this field have two options to choose from for advanced studies. One option is the on-the-job training which is a two year program under the supervision of a certified, prosthetist, orthotist or orthotist-prosthetist. After the program is completed, they will achieve the technician status. Formal program will give more opportunities to be certified in this field and will give an Associate degree. Licensing and certification is not required although those who are certified can earn more.
Skills and Abilities
It is important to have excellent eye-hand coordination when wanting to become an orthotic and prosthetic technician.
They should be keen to details and patient. It is important to measure precisely and accurately to make sure the device will fit the patient. Continuous study needs to be made to be updated with new materials, process and technology.
Duties
The job of an orthotic and prosthetic technician starts by reading specifications and diagrams made by the prosthetist and orthotist. This will be their basis in making the device and the materials and tools that will be used. It is part of their job to create casts or models of patients features. The models will be their guide in creating plastic cosmetic replacements of hands, ears, nose and even limbs. They grind, carve and build the parts that the patient needs. Some materials they use like plastic or metal are cut, welded and bended. They should know how to use different tools that best creates the device.
Earnings and Job Outlook
Certification plays a big role in determining the salary of an orthotic and prosthetic technician. Those who are certified earn more because of their advance knowledge and skills in this field. Other factors which affect their salary are the location where they work, size and type of employer and work experience.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.
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Word Count: 518 Date: Wed, 3 Nov 2010 Time: 9:04 PM
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