Medical orthotics and prosthetics is a field that involves designing, fitting, and maintaining devices to help people move.

What they do: 

• Assess patients: Learn about the patient’s needs and medical history
• Take measurements: Create molds of the body part that will need a device
• Design devices: Create braces, splints, or artificial limbs
• Fit devices: Customize the device to the patient’s needs
• Educate patients: Teach patients how to use and care for their devices
• Maintain devices: Repair or replace devices as needed
• Work with rehabilitation teams: Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to help patients achieve their goals

Who they help:

• People with injuries, such as knee injuries
• People with disabilities, such as cerebral palsy
• People with conditions, such as arthritis
• People who have lost a limb or have limb differences