Designing and manufacturing custom made devices to meet specification such as artificial limbs and spinal bracing.
Occupational Profile
Prosthetic or Orthotic Technicians design and manufacture custom made devices to meet the specification / prescription determined by the Prosthetist/ Orthotist. In prosthetics this is an artificial limb (prostheses) in orthotics it can be a range of devices from diabetic footwear to spinal bracing (Orthoses). Using the specification/ prescription provided you will make devices that aid movement, correct deformity and relieve discomfort for adults and children. These devices are designed to replace, support or improve the functioning of a limb or the spine. You will have an understating of the clinical conditions that you may provide devices for include scoliosis, polio, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, musculoskeletal injury and cerebral palsy. Some patients who use the devices may have congenital conditions such as being born with a limb missing or a limb or spine that has not formed fully; others have lost a limb through trauma from being in an accident or during military service; and others have lost a limb or part of limb due to disease as a result of their health condition eg diabetes. You will be a highly skilled individual able to work with many different types of materials and processes to manufacture their devices using the appropriate materials and technologies. You will work with a very high attention to detail and to very specific measurements, profiles and moulds as each device is bespoke to the patient, their conditions and functionality. As people’s conditions and requirements change over time and technologies improve or change, you may continue to adapt devices. You may support patients over a long time as devices need to be changed / upgraded. You may also be required to support and supervise junior members of staff delegating tasks as appropriate. You will work for both the NHS or independent companies contracted to supply a service to the NHS, or work for a company that provides a private service direct to individuals. Some technicians work in a department based in a hospital environment or within a manufacturing unit away from a hospital base.
Summary of Standard
Full Standard
