Superior Technician in Orthoprosthetics: Everything you need to know

Higher Technician in Orthopedics is a specialization within the Health family that trains professionals capable of designing, producing and adapting prostheses and orthoses, as well as managing orthopedic laboratories. This Higher Vocational Training course lasts 2.000 hours, divided into theoretical and practical classes that ensure the optimal preparation of their students. With a high demand in the labor market, is an opportunity for those interested in health, wellness and technology.

Requirements to access the Vocational Training Cycle

To access the training cycle of Higher Technician in Orthopedics, certain academic and administrative conditions must be met. These are:

• Be in possession of the Bachelor's degree or have passed the second year of Baccalaureate of any experimental modality.
• Having a title of Higher Technician or Specialist Technician.
• Having approved the University Orientation Course (COU) or pre-university.
• Own one university degree or equivalent.
• It is also possible to access through the passing an entrance exam to higher level training cycles, as long as you are 19 years old or 18 if you already have a related Technical degree.

It should be noted that applicants who come from educational branches related to the Sciences and technology They have priority access.

Functions of the Senior Technician in Orthotics and Prosthetics

Professionals trained in this cycle are capable of performing various functions in workshops, laboratories and in stores specializing in orthopedics. Some of the most notable functions include:

• Design and development: Create custom orthoses, prostheses and support products, following medical specifications.
• Product adaptation: Customize orthopaedic devices and technical aids according to the patient's needs.
• Quality control: Verify that products comply with established standards.
• Administrative management: Organization and administration of orthopedic laboratories and centers.
• Patient care: Provide advice on the use and maintenance of orthopedic adaptations.

Training Plan and Professional Modules

The training of the Higher Technician in Orthotics and Prosthetics is organized in two academic years, combining theory and practice. It includes training in workplaces to gain real work experience. The training modules that are taken are:

First course

• Anatomical design and molding.
• Industrial technology applied to orthopaedic and prosthetic activities.
• Biomechanics and applied pathology.
• Manufacturing of custom orthotic products.
• Basic anatomy, physiology and pathology.
• Training and career counseling.
• Technical English.

Second Course

• Adaptation of prefabricated orthoses.
• Preparation and adaptation of external prostheses.
• Adaptation of support products.
• Psychosocial care.
• Business and Entrepreneurship.
• Orthotics and support products project.
• Training in Workplaces (FCT).

The mastery of these competencies It allows the student to acquire manual, technical and administrative skills essential to being a complete and competitive professional.

Professional outings

Completing this training cycle guarantees a wide range of employment opportunities. Some of the most common options are:

• Prosthetics and orthotics technician: Design and production of custom prostheses and orthoses.
• Assistive Products Technician: Adjustment and advice on assistive technology devices.
• Technical manager: Manage workshops or laboratories focused on the manufacturing of orthopedic products.
• Sales Representative: Represent companies that manufacture orthopedic and support products.
• Entrepreneurship: Creation and management of your own business in the field of orthopedics.

Job Outlook and Demand in the Sector

The orthoprosthetics market is in constant growth, thanks to the aging of the population and the Technological advancesThis has generated a greater demand for customized and quality products, as well as a growing need for professionals trained in this field. In addition, the versatility of this training allows working in both the public and private sectors, guaranteeing job stability and career opportunities.

With the development of advanced technologies such as Print 3D, biocompatible materials y smart sensors, the field of prosthetics and orthotics has greatly diversified, offering new opportunities for innovation and research.

Studying to become a Senior Technician in Orthotics and Prosthetics is a way of combining science, technology and a vocation to help others, generating a positive impact both on the lives of people and on society in general. This training cycle, with its comprehensive and practical approach, allows students to be fully prepared to face the demands of a booming sector.