orthotic devices
The types of devices used for support such as braces, arch supports and joints.
Prosthetic-orthotics technicians design, create, fit and repair supportive devices, such as braces, joints, arch supports, and other surgical and medical appliances.
Competences and skills
29 ESCO relationsEssential knowledge 6 competences
Occupation specific
1 competenceSector-specific
2 competencesprosthetic devices
The various artificial replacements of body parts or limbs, which were lost during a trauma, disease or an accident.
prosthetic-orthotic device materials
The materials used to create prosthetic-orthotic devices such as polymers, thermoplastic and thermosetting materials, metal alloys and leather. In the choice of materials, attention must be paid to medical regulations, cost and biocompatibility.
Cross-sector
3 competencesbiomedical engineering
The biomedical engineering processes used to create medical devices, prostheses and in treatments.
human anatomy
The dynamic relationship of human structure and function and the muscosceletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, urinary, reproductive, integumentary and nervous systems; normal and altered anatomy and physiology throughout the human lifespan.
types of orthopedic supplies
Various types of orthopaedic supplies such as braces and arm supports, used for physical therapy or physical rehabilitation.
Essential skills and competences 11 competences
Occupation specific
2 competencesinterpret prescriptions
Interpret the specifications written down by doctors or other professionals to determine the type of product or device that needs to be created, as well as the materials that need to be used.
manufacture prosthetic-orthotic devices
Create prosthetic-orthotic devices according to the designs of the prosthetist-orthotist, company specifications and national and international regulations. Use specialised materials, tools and machinery.
Sector-specific
5 competencesfinish prosthetic-orthotic devices
Complete the manufacturing of prosthetic and orthotic devices by sanding, smoothing, applying paint or lacquer layers, stuffing and covering some parts with leather or textiles.
maintain prosthetic-orthotic devices
Ensure that all prosthetic-orthotic devices are properly stored and taken care of so they maintain their functionality and appearance.
repair orthopedic goods
Replace and repair orthopaedic material such as prostheses, technical supports and rehabilitation aids.
repair prosthetic-orthotic devices
Perform repairs, fix and modify prosthetic-orthotic devices according to the specifications.
test prosthetic-orthotic devices
Ensure that the prosthetic-orthotic devices fit the patient according to specifications. Test and evaluate them to ensure that they work as intended. Make adjustments to ensure proper fit, function and comfort.
Cross-sector
4 competencesmanipulate metal
Manipulate the properties, shape and size of metal.
manipulate plastic
Manipulate the properties, shape and size of plastic.
manipulate wood
Manipulate the properties, shape and size of wood.
use technical drawing software
Create technical designs and technical drawings using specialised software.
digital
Optional knowledge 5 competences
Occupation specific
2 competencesprosthetic-orthotic examination
The examination, interview and measurement of patients to determine the prosthetic-orthotic device to be made, including their kind and size.
use of special equipment for daily activities
The types of special equipment, prosthetics and orthotics used to aid with performing daily activities, such as wheelchairs.
Sector-specific
1 competenceorthopaedic goods industry
The characteristics of devices and suppliers in the orthopaedic devices field.
Cross-sector
2 competencesbiomedical techniques
The various methods and techniques used in biomedical laboratory such as molecular and biomedical techniques, imaging techniques, genetic engineering, electrophysiology techniques and in silico techniques.
musculoskeletal anatomy
The human musculoskeletal system, comprising of the skeleton, muscles, cartilage, tendons, joints and other connective tissue that supports and binds tissues and organs together. The human musculoskeletal system's primary functions, such as supporting the body, allowing motion, and protecting vital organs.
Optional skills and competences 7 competences
Occupation specific
2 competencesmaintain prosthetic-orthotic laboratory equipment
Check the condition of the prosthetic-orthotic laboratory equipment used. Clean and perform maintenance operations as necessary.
use casts of body parts
Use plaster to make impressions of body parts, or receive casts to use for the fabrication of products or devices.
Sector-specific
2 competencesdesign objects to be crafted
Sketch, draw or design sketches and drawings from memory, live models, manufactured products or reference materials in the process of crafting and sculpting.
recommend orthopedic goods to customers depending on their condition
Recommend and provide advice on orthopaedic goods and pieces of equipment such as braces, slings or elbow supports. Provide individual advice depending on customer's specific condition and needs.
Cross-sector
3 competencesadvise on medical device features
Provide information on how the medical device is functioning, what are its features, advantages and usability terms.
comply with legislation related to health care
Comply with the regional and national health legislation which regulates relations between suppliers, payers, vendors of the healthcare industry and patients, and the delivery of healthcare services.
order supplies
Command products from relevant suppliers to get convenient and profitable products to purchase.