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Orthotic Technician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

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.

How do I become 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.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Orthotic Technician?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Orthotic Technician

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



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

Orthotic Technician
Orthotist
Clinical Specialist Orthotist
Senior Orthotist
Head of Orthotics Department
Orthotics Manager
Director of Orthotics Services
Prosthetist-Orthotist
Clinical Specialist Prosthetist-Orthotist
Senior Prosthetist-Orthotist
Head of Prosthetics and Orthotics Department
Prosthetics and Orthotics Manager
Director of Prosthetics and Orthotics Services
Biomedical Engineer specializing in Orthotics and Prosthetics
Research and Development Engineer for Orthotic Devices/Prosthetic Devices

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a Prosthetic Technician UK?

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.

What qualifications do you need for orthotics?

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.

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