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Quick run through over Prosthetics & Orthotics studies- 7-Feb-2014

Education in Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O) is now moving into a new era in India with the introduction of PG and other higher level studies these disciplines have become far more academic & research oriented.

But, on the whole, P&O education in India is at its infant stage, in achieving core competencies.

A medical orthotist and prosthetist works directly with patients in the specialised field of orthopaedic rehabilitation in cooperation with  other members

of the multidisciplinary team by assessing, measuring, designing, manufacturing, maintaining and fitting orthoses and prostheses to assist with the rehabilitation of physically impaired patients.

The course enables to learn how to assess, diagnose and treat people requiring prosthetic and orthotic care. Practical training is a must in collaboration with relevant theory and background information.

After a Diploma or Under Graduation studies in this area, you will gradually require a greater depth of learning and increased competency in dealing with people, meeting their needs and deciding on the most effective treatment to offer.

Orthotists and prosthetists work in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes, and home health settings.  Orthotists and prosthetists are currently in high demand, and the demand is expected to increase in the future.

Orthotists and prosthetists are part of the health care team, and as such, work with physicians, therapists, and other health care professionals to provide the orthotic and prosthetic needs of patients. 

Responsibilities of Orthotists and prosthetists:

1) performing a comprehensive assessment of the patient's orthotic/prosthetic needs,
2) creating a comprehensive orthotic/prosthetic treatment plan to meet the needs and goals of the patient,
3) performing the necessary procedures to deliver the appropriate orthotic/prosthetic services, which may include fabrication of the orthosis/prosthesis,
4) providing continuing patient care and periodic evaluation to assure/maintain/ document optimal fit and function of the orthosis/prosthesis,
5) participating in personal and professional development through continuing education, training, research and organizational affiliations, and
6) developing, implementing and/or monitoring policies and procedures regarding human, business, and organizational management.

In India, though fairly a good number of institutes offer studies on Prosthetics & Orthotics, only a countable number of institutes offer course on Prosthetics & Orthotics in Tamil Nadu. Gradually, with the advancement of science & technology, people have become aware of the need for Prosthetics & Orthotics equipments to overcome any sort of disability. 

Eventhough, fair amount of opportunites are in India, scope overseas is much greater than doemstic ,   

Few insitutions that offer Prosthetics & Orthotics studies are:

Subjects covered in the studies are:
 
Anatomy  
Pathology
Physiology  
Orthopedics and Amputation Surgery
Materials and Workshop Technology
Physical medicine and Rehabilitation
Applied Mechanics & Strength of Materials  
Fundamentals of Electricity and Electronics
Engineering Drawing  
Computer Science
Biomechanics  
Mobility and rehabilitation Aids
Prosthetics Science