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How to Get a Job as an Orthotist or Prosthetist

An orthotist fits a patient with a medical device on their foot.

Orthotists and Prosthetists design, fabricate, and fit medical devices that support or replace limbs and other parts of the body. Orthotists specialize in braces and supports (orthoses), while prosthetists focus on artificial limbs (prostheses). They work with patients recovering from injury, illness, or congenital conditions, helping restore mobility and independence. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of orthotists and prosthetists is projected to grow 13% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average, with about 900 job openings each year【source: BLS】.


Entry-Level Requirements for Orthotists and Prosthetists

To launch a career as an Orthotist or Prosthetist, you typically need:

Education: A master’s degree in orthotics and prosthetics from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Undergraduate study in kinesiology, biomedical engineering, or health sciences is recommended.

Certifications & Licenses: After earning a degree, candidates must complete a one-year residency for each discipline (orthotics or prosthetics) and pass the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) exams to become certified. Most states require licensure to practice.

Experience: Supervised clinical rotations and residencies provide essential hands-on experience designing, fitting, and adjusting orthotic and prosthetic devices.


Expected Salary for Orthotists and Prosthetists

  • Entry-Level: $65,000–$80,000 annually

  • Mid-Level: $80,000–$95,000 annually

  • Senior-Level: $95,000–$115,000+ annually

The median annual wage for orthotists and prosthetists in the U.S. is $77,070【source: BLS】.


Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

  • Technical knowledge of biomechanics and materials science

  • Strong communication and patient care skills

  • Manual dexterity and precision in fabrication

  • Problem-solving and adaptability

  • Empathy and patience when working with patients adjusting to assistive devices


Is This Role Better for Introverts or Extroverts?

This career is generally a better fit for extroverts. Orthotists and Prosthetists work closely with patients, physicians, and rehabilitation teams. The role involves constant interpersonal communication, patient education, and collaboration to ensure successful outcomes, which extroverts typically find energizing and fulfilling.


Top 5 Degree Programs with Best ROI for Orthotists and Prosthetists


Can You Become an Orthotist or Prosthetist Without a Degree?

No. You must complete a master’s degree in orthotics and prosthetics and become certified through the American Board for Certification (ABC) to practice. However, individuals can begin as orthotic/prosthetic technicians with an associate degree or technical training and later pursue a master’s degree.


Five Jobs Similar to Orthotist or Prosthetist

  • Biomedical Engineer

  • Rehabilitation Engineer

  • Physical Therapist

  • Occupational Therapist

  • Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician


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Orthotists and Prosthetists blend science, technology, and empathy to transform lives through improved mobility and independence. With rapid advances in materials and digital design, this hands-on healthcare career is ideal for extroverts who enjoy patient interaction, teamwork, and practical problem-solving.

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