• What do orthotists / prosthetists do?
Prosthetists and orthotists custom-make and fit prostheses (artificial limbs) and orthoses (braces).

• What is an orthotist?
Orthotists are allied health professionals who provide care to patients with disabling conditions of the limb and spine by designing, fabricating and fitting the patient with an orthosis, a custom made brace.

• What is a prosthetist?
Prosthetists are allied health professionals who provide care to patients with a partial or total absence of a limb by designing, fabricating and fitting the patient with a prosthesis, an artificial limb.

• What is an orthotic/prosthetic technician?
An orthotic/prosthetic technician fabricates orthoses and prosthesis under the guidance of and in consultation with the orthotist or prosthetist.

• Are there other opportunities in O & P?
Yes. Opportunities are emerging for Mastectomy fitters and Orthotic and Prosthetic assistants. Mastectomy fitters fit and assist patients in choosing the appropriate breast forms. O & P assistants take patient information during evaluations, cast patients, and assist practitioners in a variety of other capacities.

• What courses should be taken in high school to better prepare one for a career in O & P?
In addition to a well rounded course load in the arts and humanities, students should take courses in biology, physics, chemistry, and computer science.

• Are there job related experiences for a high school student?
Job related experience in an O & P facility for high school students is limited but