Orthotic Technician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Orthotic Technician
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Orthotic Technician mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Orthotic Technician?
Orthotic Technicians are skilled professionals who create custom-made devices, like shoe inserts and braces, to support and improve the function of patients' feet and lower limbs. Working closely with podiatrists, they play a crucial role in helping people with foot-related issues walk comfortably and maintain proper foot health.
Skills
- Knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the foot and lower limb
- Ability to use specialized equipment and tools for orthotic fabrication
- Attention to detail and precision in measurements and adjustments
- Strong communication skills to work with patients and healthcare professionals
- Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues with orthotic devices
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Knowledge of materials and their properties for orthotic fabrication
- Understanding of medical terminology and documentation requirements
- Time management skills to meet deadlines and manage multiple patients
- Continuous learning and staying up-to-date with new technologies and techniques in the field
Qualifications & Education
- A degree in podiatry approved by the Health Professions Council
- Registration with the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
- Membership of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
- Theoretical and practical training through degree courses
- Completion of 30 hours of Continuing Professional Development each year for qualified podiatrists
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a Prosthetic Technician in the UK, you must first complete an approved degree in prosthetics and orthotics. This degree takes three or four years and is only offered by a few universities in the UK.
To become an Orthotic Technician in the UK, you need a BTEC, HND or HNC qualification that includes maths or engineering, a relevant NVQ, a science-based Access course, equivalent Scottish or Irish qualifications, or a previous degree or a full practising qualification in a related area.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Orthotic Technician mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now