How to become an orthotist

Is becoming an orthotist right for me?

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Overview
What do orthotists do?
Career Satisfaction
Are orthotists happy with their careers?
Personality
What are orthotists like?

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How to become an Orthotist

Becoming an orthotist involves the following steps:

  • Earn a Bachelor's Degree: While a bachelor's degree is not always required, many orthotists hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, kinesiology, or health sciences. Ensure that your chosen program includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and medical terminology.
  • Complete an Orthotics Program: Enroll in and successfully complete a Master's Degree Program in Orthotics and Prosthetics. These programs are typically offered by universities or colleges and are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). The program typically includes didactic coursework, laboratory exercises, and clinical rotations to provide comprehensive training in orthotic assessment, design, fabrication, and fitting.
  • Participate in Clinical Training: Orthotics programs often include hands-on clinical rotations in orthotic clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers. During clinical training, you'll gain practical experience working with patients under the supervision of experienced orthotists. Clinical rotations provide opportunities to develop essential skills in patient assessment, orthotic design, fabrication techniques, and patient care.
  • Obtain Certification: While certification is not always required, becoming certified can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your competency as an orthotist (see below).
  • Gain Experience: Upon completing your education and obtaining certification, gain experience by working in orthotic clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers. This hands-on experience will further develop your skills and expertise in orthotic assessment, fabrication, fitting, and patient care.
  • Continuing Education: Stay updated on advances in orthotic technology, treatment modalities, and professional standards through continuing education and professional development activities. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars, and pursue opportunities for specialized training or advanced certifications to expand your knowledge and skills in orthotics.

Certifications
Orthotists can obtain certification to demonstrate their competency and expertise in the field. Here are the key certifications available for orthotists:

  • Certified Orthotist (CO): The CO credential is offered by ABC and is the standard certification for orthotists in the US. To become certified, individuals must complete a recognized orthotics program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). They must also pass a rigorous certification exam that assesses their knowledge and skills in orthotic assessment, design, fabrication, fitting, and patient care. Additionally, candidates must meet other eligibility requirements, such as completing a specified number of patient care hours and adhering to ethical standards.
  • State Licensure: In addition to national certification, some states require orthotists to obtain licensure to practice. Licensure requirements vary by state but may include completing a specific education program, passing a state licensing exam, and fulfilling continuing education requirements. Orthotists must adhere to state regulations and maintain licensure to practice legally in those states.
  • Other Certifications: While the CO credential is the primary certification for orthotists, there are additional certifications available for specialized areas of orthotic practice. For example, orthotists who work with pediatric patients may pursue the Certified Orthotic Fitter (COF) credential, also offered by ABC, to demonstrate their expertise in fitting orthotic devices for children. Additionally, orthotists who specialize in certain areas, such as spinal orthotics or sports medicine, may pursue advanced certifications or specialized training programs to enhance their skills and knowledge in those areas.