Technology of Prosthetic & Orthotic Devices Program

Program overview

Do you want to have an impact on people’s lives and even become their lifesaver? Then this program is for you!

After losing a limb, a person’s life completely changes. And here comes the role of a prosthetic & orthotics technologist to make a difference in this person’s life. This program is only offered by Galala University in Egypt and the Middle East. In turn, the number of graduates is few in relation to the national and regional markets so they have a lot of opportunities.

• What is Prosthetics & Orthotics?

Artificial limbs are known as prostheses; while orthotic is basically an externally applied device that modifies the structural and functional characteristics of skeletal and neuromuscular systems and supports individuals in mobility. Prosthetics/Orthotics Technologist assess patient disabilities and their physical needs. He/she design, fabricate, fit, evaluate and repair prosthetic devices (artificial limbs) and orthotic devices (braces and supports). They also supervise the patient’s activities and provide advice and help to address their goals.

• Prosthetics/Orthotics technologists use the latest technology to improve the quality of life of patients who need prosthetics or orthotic devices. They empower people to move, run, walk or simply stand independently. In addition to the main field of prosthetics and orthotics, their study includes courses in anatomy, psychology, pathophysiology related to prosthetics and orthotics, mathematics, and biomechanics. The field of prosthetics and orthotics devices combines dealing with patients and technology in an interesting and exciting way.

• A Bachelor of Prosthetic and Orthotics Devices is a specialized university degree program. It is a program in the field of Applied Health Science (AHS) for candidates who want to be specialized in a career that provides support to disabled individuals to perform their daily activities (ADLs). You’ll learn how to restore function and independence in others by evaluating, casting, and custom-fitting artificial limbs for people whose lives have been impacted by conditions including but not limited to injury, disease, or that are present since birth.

• Is a Prosthetist a Doctor?

A Prosthetics/orthotics technologist is a crucial member of the medical team. He is a professional health-care provider who fabricates and repairs artificial limbs for people with physical disabilities or limb loss.

• The work is quite varied and may include:

1- Giving a surgeon your advice (pre-operatively) when they’re performing an amputation.

2- Fitting a prosthesis for a military veteran and helping them through the journey of their entire rehabilitation process.

3- Helping a diverse range of ages (from children with cerebral palsy to adults with arthritis).

4- Preventing patients from needing amputations by providing well-fitting splints and complex footwear.

• • Where could you be working?

  You are likely to be based in a hospital but may also work in private clinics or companies that manufacture prosthetic or orthotic devices. Many prosthetists and orthotists set up their own companies and work independently.

  • Are you a good communicator?

  As a prosthetist or orthotist, you won’t just treat your patients physically; You’ll also help them feel satisfied and comfortable living with their blade or brace. You’ll need to be a great communicator and be able to build rapport with your patients, as it can be a stressful time for them. You’ll need to be the voice of encouragement and the person who listens and understands.

• • Are you detail-oriented?

  You must be precise when recording measurements so that each device fits properly and is truly tailored for the individual. This can often feel like a make-or-break moment for patients, so it is crucial to fabricate sockets as accurately as possible.

  • Are you good at problem-solving?

  You’ll need to evaluate every patient’s situation individually and look for creative ways to meet their personal rehabilitation needs. The nature of the job will encounter different people with very different conditions. Every patient is a project and will need their own tailored plan.

  • Do you have a good level of fitness?

  This is a physical job where using your hand skills is vital. To get the best performance out of a prosthesis or aid, you’ll need to make a lot of adjustments. You should be comfortable performing physical tasks, such as working with hand tools and workshop equipment to make these adjustments. You might also spend a lot of time bending over or crouching to examine and measure patients.