A professional who provides care to patients with disabling conditions of limbs and spine by fitting and preparing orthopedic braces, under direction of and in consultation with physician. Responsibilities include:

• Assists in formulation of specifications for braces.
• Examines and evaluates patient's needs in relation to disease and functional loss.
• Formulates design of orthopedic brace.
• Selects materials, making cast measurements, model modifications, and layouts.
• Performs fitting, including static and dynamic alignments.
• Evaluates brace on patient and makes adjustments to assure fit, function, and quality of work.
• Instructs patient in use of orthopedic brace.
• Maintains patient records.
• May supervise orthotics assistants and other support personnel.
• May supervise laboratory activities relating to development of orthopedic braces.
• May lecture and demonstrate to colleagues and other professionals concerned with orthotics.
• May participate in research.
• May perform functions of prosthetist and be designated Orthotist-Prosthetist.