WHAT IS P&O?
Prosthetics and orthotics is a field that focuses on helping people improve their mobility and quality of life by designing and creating devices that support or replace body parts. These fields combine science, engineering, and healthcare to create customized solutions using materials like plastic, metal, and even 3D printing technology. By studying prosthetics and orthotics, students can explore how creativity and technology come together to solve real-world problems, helping people lead more active and fulfilling lives.
A Career In P&O
Imagine being able to create super cool technology that helps people do amazing things, like running, playing sports, or even just walking again! A career in prosthetics and orthotics lets you design special devices, like artificial arms and legs (prosthetics) or custom supports for feet, knees, and backs (orthotics), that help people live better, more active lives.
You could work with high-tech tools like 3D printing and robotics to make these devices, turning your creativity and problem-solving skills into real-life solutions. Whether you love science, technology, art, or helping others, this career is all about using your talents to make a big difference in the world. It’s a chance to be a superhero for someone in need, and the best part is, you could be the one who invents the next big breakthrough in prosthetics and orthotics!
Technicians and Clinicians
Technician
P&O technicians works behind the scenes to build and repair the prosthetic limbs and orthotic braces that the clinician designs for the patient.
Clinician
A P&O clinician is someone who assess and fit patients with artificial limbs, braces and splints. They directly interact with the patient, determine their needs, and make clinical decisions about their care.
How to Become a Technician
Education
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Path I
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High school diploma
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2-year technical program
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Path II
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High school diploma
Internship
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Path I
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Complete 3450 hours under the supervision of a certified technician or clinician
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Path II
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Register for the OPC internship program and complete 6900 hours under the supervision of a certified technician or clinician
Certification
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Challenge national board exams (written + practical)
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Certifications
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RTP(c) = Registered Technician in Prosthetics in Canada
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RTO(c) = Registered Technician in Orthotics in Canada
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RTPO(c) = Registered Technician in Prosthetics and Orthotics in Canada
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How to Become a Clinician
Education
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Complete a four-year degree in science, engineering, or kinesiology.
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2-year post-graduate clinical program (many people complete the technical program before applying for the clinical program).
Residency
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Complete a 2-year (3450 hours) residency under the supervision of a certified clinician.
Registration
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challenge national board exams (written+practical)
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RTP(c) = Registered Technician in Prosthetics in Canada
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RTO(c) = Registered Technician in Orthotics in Canada
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RTPO(c) = Registered Technician in Prosthetics and Orthotics in Canada
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