Clinical Orthotist

Clinical Orthotists work as part of an inter-disciplinary team, building lasting relationships with patients, medical specialists and allied health professionals.

Orthotist careers in New Zealand

The Clinical Orthotist’s aim is to:

  • Aid movement
  • Correct deformity; and
  • Relieve their patients’ discomfort.

This involves the clinical assessment and fitting of orthoses, with a strong focus on positive patient outcomes. Clinical Orthotists provide splints, braces and special footwear (orthotics) to correct problems or deformities in people’s nerves, muscles or bones.

Skills and knowledge

It takes more than an education to be a good orthotist. Other qualities include:

  • A commitment to continuing professional development where technology and techniques are constantly evolving
  • Empathy and understanding of a patient’s needs and challenges
  • An eye for detail
  • Excellent communication skills
  • A ‘can do’ approach

Courses

There are currently no orthotics courses available in New Zealand.

La Trobe University in Melbourne, and University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, offer a four-year Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics.

A range of scholarships are available for international students.

Have a question?

For more information about roles and vacancies, please contact us at careers@nzals.co.nz.