CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Medical Orthotics Technician

Create and modify braces to assist individuals with movement challenges. They work with doctors to ensure these devices are properly fitted and enhance patients' mobility.

Career Cluster Tag:
On The Job You Would:

Guide patients on how to properly use and maintain their orthotic devices and evaluate their progress to make needed adjustments. Collaborates with healthcare professionals to revise treatment plans based on patient feedback and outcomes.

Knowledge
Anatomy and biomechanics to design effective orthotic devices, patient assessment and material properties for crafting and fitting braces properly.
Skills
Technical Skills:

Ability to use specialized tools and equipment to create and adjust orthotic devices accurately.

Anatomy Knowledge:

Understanding of the body’s structure to design devices that fit well and support specific areas effectively.

Communication:

Clearly explain device use to patients and collaborate with healthcare professionals.

Abilities
Precision:

Carefully measure and create orthotic devices to ensure they fit correctly and function effectively.

Problem-Solving:

Identifying issues with devices and making adjustments to meet individual patient needs.

Adaptability:

Adjusting to new technologies, materials, and patient needs to continuously improve the effectiveness of orthotic devices.

Personality
Patience:

Working calmly with difficult patients to ensure they are satisfied with the service.

Empathy:

Understanding patients' concerns and making them feel comfortable throughout the process.

Compassion:

Supporting and understanding patients' emotional and physical challenges as they adapt to their orthotic devices.

Technology
Computer-aided design (CAD) software for creating precise orthotic models, 3D printers for fabricating custom devices and scanning equipment like laser scanners to capture accurate measurements for better-fitting supports.
Entry Requirements
Diploma or Bachelors degree, certification and practical experience through internships.
Job Outlook
Growing Healthcare Demand:

Increasing awareness of orthopedic and rehabilitation needs is driving demand for skilled orthotics technicians.

Expanding Medical Facilities:

Rise of new hospitals and specialized clinics in Pakistan is creating more job opportunities in this field.

Technological Advancements:

Innovations in orthotic technology and materials are leading to more sophisticated devices, increasing the need for trained professionals.

Where can you work?
In hospitals, rehabilitation centers, orthopedic clinics, and specialized medical device companies.
Education
Complete Secondary Education:

Obtain a Matriculation Certificate or equivalent to meet the basic educational requirements.

Bachelor’s Degree:

Enroll in a Bachelor’s program in Orthotics and Prosthetics or a related to acquire advanced knowledge and skills.

Certification and Practical Experience:

Acquire professional certification and complete hands-on training or internships to gain practical experience.

Where can you study?
Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore:

Offers a Bachelor’s program in Orthotics and Prosthetics, providing specialized training in the field.

Institute of Orthotics and Prosthetics, Karachi:

Provides diploma and degree courses in orthotics and prosthetics, focusing on practical and theoretical education.

Khyber Medical University, Peshawar:

Features programs in orthotics and prosthetics, emphasizing comprehensive training and research.

Expenses & Scholarships
Cost can range from approximately PKR 50,000 to PKR 150,000 per year, depending on the institution. Scholarships and financial aid options are available through various universities and government programs to help offset these expenses.

Similar Occupations: