Rehabilitation

Restoring Movement How Prosthetics are Transforming Lives

Written by Sathya Mathiyalagan
November 11th, 2024

Introduction

In this month’s theme of prosthetics, we will be delving into the world of a prosthetist. These professionals are responsible for making artificial limbs for people with disabilities.

Patients who undergo amputations due to diseases, disorders, or injuries often lose a significant amount of independence, relying heavily on family and caregivers for daily tasks. Prosthetists restore independence by creating customized prosthetics, enabling patients to regain mobility, confidence, and autonomy.

Education Path for Prosthetists

To become a prosthetist, the typical educational path includes:

  1. Undergraduate degree – 4 years
  2. Master’s degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics – 2 years
    • Coursework includes: upper and lower extremity prosthetics, orthotics, plastics, spinal orthotics, and material sciences
    • Graduate program includes a clinical component requiring 500 hours of supervised practice, split between prosthetics and orthotics
  3. Residency – 1 year
  4. Certification exam

Where Do Prosthetists Work?

Once certified, prosthetists may work in:

  • Hospitals
  • Inpatient rehabilitation centers
  • Outpatient rehabilitation centers
  • Private practices
  • Industrial health centers

Prosthetists vs. Orthotists

While their roles overlap, there are important differences:

  • Orthotists fit braces and splints (orthotics) for patients with weakened muscles or bones due to injuries, disorders, or nerve damage
  • Prosthetists specialize in creating artificial limbs

Shared Responsibilities

Both orthotists and prosthetists:

  • Assess patients and discuss needs
  • Take measurements or molds of the affected body area
  • Create devices according to physician instructions
  • Select appropriate materials
  • Educate patients on device use and care
  • Repair, adjust, or replace devices
  • Maintain detailed patient records

👉 Curious about orthotics? Stay tuned for next week’s article!

Phantom Limb Pain

Phantom limb pain occurs when patients feel sensations in a missing body part after amputation. While the limb no longer exists physically, the pain is real for the patient.

Research shows that using prosthetics can significantly reduce phantom limb pain, and in some cases, eliminate it entirely. Prosthetics not only relieve pain but also restore functionality and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

Prosthetists combine medical knowledge with engineering skills to design and fit devices that help patients reclaim independence. Their work profoundly impacts patients and families by:

  • Restoring mobility
  • Reducing pain
  • Improving self-confidence

Through their dedication, prosthetists remind us of the transformative power of specialized healthcare in shaping lives and communities.

Footnotes

Orthotists