Orthotic and Prosthetic Technicians

Employment for orthotic and prosthetic technicians is expected to grow by approximately 4 percent through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), which is about as fast as the average. The DOL says that "the increasing number of older adults and an associated rise in age-related ailments will drive demand for medical appliance technicians. For example, these workers will be needed to produce supportive devices to help reduce pain and improve function for people with osteoporosis and osteoarthritis."

The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists reports that orthotic and prosthetic technicians who receive formal training and certification have a high employment rate. The need for technicians is driven by the growth of the health care industry, increasing access to medical and rehabilitation care through private and public insurance programs, improving technologies, and our country's aging population. According to a study prepared for the National Commission on Prosthetic Education, the aging baby boomer population will largely increase the demand for both orthotists and prosthetists. The nonprofit organization Amputee Coalition reported on its Web site that as of 2025, there were more than 5.6 million people in the U.S. living with limb loss and limb difference, and that number was projected to continue growing.