Orthotic & Prosthetic (O&P) technicians assist the disabled by fabricating the orthopedic braces (orthoses) and artificial limbs (prostheses) necessary for their rehabilitation. O&P technicians are trained and skilled to provide comprehensive O&P technical support services and possess the knowledge to interact with clinical prosthetists and orthotists. Providing orthotic and prosthetic care involves the application of clinical and technical processes to meet patient rehabilitation objectives.
The Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician program at Francis Tuttle provides a comprehensive education in each discipline. The curriculum is designed to introduce an entry-level student to the fundamentals of orthotic and prosthetic equipment and materials. Thereafter, the student will acquire knowledge in polymer processes, the strength of materials, and applied biomechanical principles to develop and totally customize an orthosis (brace) or prosthesis (artificial limb). A student may choose to enroll in the Orthotic Technician and/or Prosthetic Technician career major.
Upon completion of each discipline, students will receive a certificate of completion. The academic requirements differ for Certificates for Orthotic Technician and Prosthetic Technician. Graduates of the Orthotic Technician or Prosthetic Technician career major(s) are eligible to take the associated national certification exam given by the American Board for Certification (ABC). Those who pass are registered by the board as a Certified Technician in Orthotics – CTO or Certified Technician in Prosthetics. Exam application is through American Board for Certification for Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics.
