Orthotic and Prosthetic Technicians
Overview
Introduction
Orthotic technicians and prosthetic technicians (also known as medical appliance technicians) make, fit, repair, and maintain orthotic and prosthetic devices according to specifications and under the guidance of orthotists and prosthetists. Orthotic devices, sometimes also referred to as orthopedic appliances, are braces used to support weak or ineffective joints or muscles or to correct physical defects, such as spinal deformities. Prosthetic devices are artificial limbs and plastic cosmetic devices. These devices...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Salaries for orthotic and prosthetic technicians vary widely, depending on education, certification, and years of experience. Technicians who have received their certification earn higher salaries than those who are not certified. Other factors influencing salary differences include area of the country where a technician works, size and type of employer, and years of work experience. The U.S. D...
Work Environment
Orthotic and prosthetic technicians spend much of their time on their feet in a workshop setting, which may be cluttered, loud, and dusty from the machinery and the cast-making. They may have to work in uncomfortably hot oven rooms to soften the materials they use. They also work with power tools and sharp hand tools, which means that there is a chance of injury. However, careful adherence to s...
Outlook
Employment for orthotic and prosthetic technicians is expected to grow by approximately 11 percent through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), which is much faster than average. Additionally, the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists reports that orthotic and prosthetic technicians who receive formal training and certification have a very high employment rate. Addit...