Prosthetists and Orthotists are the professional responsible for the rehabilitation of physically handicapped individuals who suffer from limb malfunctions or abnormalities or absence or loss of limbs or other body parts occurring as a result of an accident or mishap or amputation owing to a medical condition like diabetes or gangrene etc. There may also be cases where people suffering from conditions like polio or muscular degeneration need an external support for movement and strength to do their daily work. Prosthetists and Orthotists help people suffering from neuromotor and musculoskeletal disorders, to return to a normal life by using their skills and advanced medical technology available. Their clientele ranges from small children to adults and elderly population suffering from age-related injuries and illnesses.
Orthotics and Prosthetics are closely related medical fields with an only minor difference. Prosthetics deal with production and use of artificial body limbs. These limbs are known as Prosthesis. These are used as an extension or replacement of a missing or damaged body part. It can be an artificial leg, an entire hand or just the palms of hands or feet etc. The professionals who deal with Prosthesis are known as Prosthetists. While Orthotics deal with the design, manufacture and use of orthopaedic devices which support or correct the function of a limb or the torso. These orthopaedic devices are known as Orthosis. Such devices include braces, splints and special footwear which assist movement and tend to lessen the amount of discomfort. The professionals who deal with Orthosis are known as Orthotists.
Prosthetist and Orthotist Eligibility
The minimum educational for becoming eligible for Prosthetist and Orthotist is 12th class pass with Biology, Physics and Chemistry as subjects.
Prosthetist and Orthotist Required Skills
- Prosthetists and Orthotists should be strong hearted to feel the heat of reality and at the same time be compassionate towards others pain and emotions.
- They also require professional knowledge about the field and condition they are going to work in. For this, they need proper knowledge and training in their respective field which can only be achieved by doing professionally designed courses.
- They also possess technical skills in particular in biomechanics, movement analysis and problem-solving skills.
- They must also be able to deal with clients with patience and tact, providing clear explanations, advice and encouragement.
How to become a Prosthetist and Orthotist?
Aspiring candidates need to follow the given steps to become a Prosthetist and Orthotist.
Step 1
After completing 12th class with relevant subjects the aspiring candidates have to get admission in Bachelor's degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics.
Candidates may have to take an entrance test for getting admission in this course. The tests usually consist of objective type questions based on subjects - Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Maths, English and GK. The questions are based on the Senior Secondary School Certificate (10+2) curriculum. These exams are usually held in the month of May-June and consists of Objective type questions based on the subject of relevant subjects the results of these exams are generally out by June/July. However, some colleges also give admission on the basis of % of marks obtained in the qualifying class.
Step 2
After completing this Bachelors degree course in which one has to go through all the major aspects of the field of study, students have to undergo a six-month internship which comprises of clinical practice, case presentation and fabrication of different kinds of orthoses and prostheses.
Step 3
Once equipped with a Bachelor's degree and necessary internship candidates can opt for some job or go for Master's Degree in Prosthetist and Orthotist.
Prosthetics and Orthotics Job Description
There are various job responsibilities of the Prosthetist and Orthotist. Some of the important ones are:
- Designs and fits artificial limbs, braces and appliances for patients with a physical disability based on physician's specifications.
- Examines patient and prepares cast or model to assist with the construction of the appliance and selection of required materials/components.
- Fits finished appliance to the patient and make any adjustments to ensure comfort and maximum functionality. If the position is a specialist in crafting and fitting artificial limbs, the title is a Prosthetist.
Prosthetics and Orthotics Career Prospects
A well qualified and certified Prosthetist and Orthotist (after graduation, in order to practice as prosthetics and orthotics in India, candidates must register with Rehabilitation Council of India) may find a challenging career in a public and private rehabilitation centre or can go for his own centre after registration with the competent authority. Based on their educational qualifications and professional experience P&O professionals may get posted as Technologists, Consultants, Prosthetists and Orthotists in the supervisory level, as Technicians or Assistants.
With the upgrading of skills and a considerable amount of job experience, they may become Head of the Department. Those in the teaching field can become Instructors and Lecturers. Yet others can join R&D cells of government organizations and MNCs as Researchers. Trained professionals can also start their own manufacturing and maintenance units.
Prosthetist and Orthotist Salary
Prosthetist and Orthotist salary are reasonable in government and private hospitals. The average starting salary of a P&O professional range between Rs.20,000 to Rs.25,000 per month in hospitals. Those who are doing private practice are earning handsome returns depending upon their skill, knowledge, experience and popularity in the surrounding areas.
