Course Definition:  The Lower Limb Orthotics Technologist is a skilled rehabilitation para-professional who is able to assess and fabricate assistive orthotic devices for person with disability under supervision of Prosthetist/Orthotist.  Most of the major physical disabilities found in India and other low income countries are included in the training syllabus. This includes management of such disabling conditions as polio, cerebral palsy, Spina Bifida, Spinal Cord Injuries, congenital birth defects, arthritis, muscular dystrophy, diabetes  and developmental delay. The emphasis on training is on holistic intervention, concentrating on functional independence and social integration, home based therapy using appropriate technology with a focus on early identification and early rehabilitation.

Duration:  18 months long, and begins every year in July.

Certification: A trainee who has attended the training and completed the requirements for all modules successfully will be qualified as a “Lower Limb Orthotics Technologist” and be eligible to receive a certificate from Mobility India & International Society of Prosthetics & Orthotics.

Expected Competencies:

1.In the absence of Category I professionals the orthotic technician will participate as a full member of the rehabilitation team, decide the design of orthotics, and select materials and components.

2.Communicate effectively with people with disabilities and their families/carers as well as with other team members.

3.In absence of Category I professionals the orthotic technician will take all casts, measurements required for proper fabrication and fitting.  They will modify positive and/or negative models and fabricate  lower limb orthoses  – usually most common types.

 4. In absence of Category I and II professionals the Orthotic technician will carry out effective fitment and satisfactory implementation of all necessary steps for the manufacture and delivery of lower limb   orthoses 5. Ensuring the training, evaluation and follow up of the person with the appliance, by performing the necessary technical check out, initial standing and gait training, information about the use, maintenance, repair and the replacement of   lower limb orthosis

6. Assisting Category I professionals (where available) in fabricating and assembling  lower limb Orthotic devices

 7.Taking responsibility for the care and economical use of workshop materials, tools and equipment.

8. Working collaboratively with the rehabilitation team and if required, manage the day-to-day activities of the workshop and support staff to implement rehabilitation programmes at field level.

9. Taking part in community based rehabilitation activities, doing minor repair at the doorstep and teaching user and carers to do the same.

10. Supervising the activity of supporting staff and often CBR workers as appropriate.

11. Taking part in and contributing to the process of continuing professional development.  Keeps abreast of new developments in materials, tools, equipment and processes which his or her duties in the workshop.

Eligibility:  10+2 from recognized Central/Sate board or equivalent

Required to pass English and Maths proficiency test.

Preference will be given to person with disability especially women with disability

Career Options: There is a great demand for Lower Limb Orthotics Technologist. Employment opportunities are found in community rehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics, governmental institutions, NGO’s and special schools.      

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