Orthotists and Prosthetists

Tasks Include:

• Examine, interview, and measure patients to determine their appliance needs and to identify factors that could affect appliance fit.
• Fit, test, and evaluate devices on patients, and make adjustments for proper fit, function, and comfort.
• Instruct patients in the use and care of orthoses and prostheses.
• Design orthopedic and prosthetic devices, based on physicians' prescriptions and examination and measurement of patients.
• Maintain patients' records.
• Make and modify plaster casts of areas that will be fitted with prostheses or orthoses, for use in the device construction process.
• Select materials and components to be used, based on device design.
• Confer with physicians to formulate specifications and prescriptions for orthopedic or prosthetic devices.
• Repair, rebuild, and modify prosthetic and orthopedic appliances.
• Construct and fabricate appliances or supervise others constructing the appliances.
• Train and supervise support staff, such as orthopedic and prosthetic assistants and technicians.

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