A prosthetist or orthotist is a health care professional who assists patients with disabilities that result in the partial or complete loss of a limb, or a severe impairment that necessitates the use of a prosthetic or orthotic device. These disabilities could be the result of an injury, or they could be the result of a disabling disease or birth defect. A prosthesis is an artificial device that replaces a missing limb and restores mobility to a patient who has lost mobility due to impairment. An orthotic is a device that supports and strengthens an impaired limb, such as a brace.
Patients are first assessed by a prosthetist to determine their specific needs. They’ll look at each patient’s muscle development, range of motion, joint stability, and skin and health in the area where the prosthetic device will be attached. This aids in determining the best design and materials to use in the creation of a custom device for each patient. To ensure the most comfort, strength, and support for each individual case, a custom design is required.
Prosthetists are required to take extremely precise and detailed measurements and impressions. They create design templates, then continue to fit and measure patients as the device takes shape. Each prosthetic is constructed and assembled by the prosthetist, who then works with the patient to make any necessary adjustments. After the device is finished, the prosthetist will prepare the attachment areas with splints or other compression devices. The prosthetist must give detailed instructions on how to operate the prosthesis, after which the patient and prosthetist collaborate to develop a care plan.
However, the job isn’t done when the device is finished and functional. Patients must meet with the prosthetist on a regular basis while learning to use the prosthesis and working with the prosthetist to make adjustments and modifications as their gait improves, muscles strengthen, and movements change. Although the time between the first meeting and full function is long, it is extremely rewarding for both the patient and the prosthetist.
The prosthetic and orthotic professions have become an exciting and ever-expanding world of opportunity thanks to advances in technology. Researchers are still looking into myoelectric joints and computer imaging, for example. Electromyography (EMG) is used in a myoelectric prosthesis to allow the patient’s muscles to send signals to the prosthetic device. This allows for more control and movement, and as technology advances, the prosthetist’s ability to provide the best range of motion and mobility to a patient improves.