9781422279908

The duties of orthotists and prosthetists include:

• Performing a detailed assessment to determine the patient’s orthotic or prosthetic needs. • Assessing the patient’s status, including her mobility, muscle strength, sensory function, range of motion, and joint stabil- ity to allow for the best prosthesis or brace. • Developing a plan that addresses the patient’s needs and goals. • Selecting the appropriate design, materials, and components for optimum strength, durability, and function. • Measuring and fitting the proper artificial body part, joint, splint, or brace for the patient. • Discussing treatment plans with the patient. • Training the patient in the proper use of the prosthetic or orthotic device. • Creating the device and making adjustments for proper alignment, maximum function, and comfort. • Explaining how to maintain the device; this is crucial for the patient because the device is now part of her body. • Providing follow-up care with patients and help with any needs they have with their devices. Orthotists and prosthetists may work in both orthotics and pros- thetics, or they may specialize in working with a particular area or population. Orthotists are specifically trained to work with medical support devices, such as spinal or knee braces, also known as orthoses. Prosthetists are specifically trained to work with prostheses, such as artificial limbs and other body parts.

8

Orthotists & Prosthetists