Inspirational Story

What subjects did you study at school or college? 

I studied Maths and all three Sciences at school before going on to do my BSc Hons in Prosthetics and Orthotics at Strathclyde University.

What influenced your choice of profession?

I really enjoyed maths and science at school and wanted a profession that really combined these with my desire to work with people; everyone told me to be a doctor but It didn’t really click so I did a lot of research into what other professions were out there.

I found Prosthetics and Orthotics and knew instantly that it would suit me and that was that!

What were your expectations of the profession?

I had done a lot of research before starting my course and spent a few days at the local re-enablement centre so I was aware of what the job entailed.

I would advised anyone looking at an AHP role to try and chat to someone working in the profession and get some work experience as this really helps you to understand what is involved.

Any lightbulb moments experienced during your career?

I have many lightbulb moments during my career!

From the very first patient I saw on placement – who sat with me and explained how without orthotics he would not be able to walk to my patient yesterday where we managed to heal his diabetic ulceration and prevent amputation.

The great thing about working in Orthotics is there are always new things to learn, new problems to solve and new people to help!

What your current role looks like day to day?

I currently work purely as an Orthotist in a General Hospital – so my days can be quite varied!

Our general outpatient clinics take patients of any age (I have treated from 4 days old to 103!) and any speciality/condition – and this variety is part of what I love about my job.

A morning can include patients with platarfaciitis for insoles and stretches to reduce pain, patients with cerebral palsy for AFO splints to help them walk and even extras down from A&E and Orthopaedics for fractured spines.

I cover several specialist clinics a week including a childrens clinic and a diabetic Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) where we team up with other AHPs and Doctors to help our more complex patients.

We also cover all of the inpatient wards and work closely with physio and the other AHPs to aid discharges and re-enablement.

How do you come to become in the position you are in now?

I actually was quite picky on what job I wanted after graduation, but was really keen to work for the NHS in a location a little closer to my family.

I applied for the job in Rotherham straight after graduation and haven’t left!

What do you love about your role?

Helping my patients! I never get tired of seeing the improvements patients have made with my treatment – whether this is reducing their pain, aiding in their recovery or improving their walking.

One of my most memorable moments was treating an older lady who had been stuck in her wheelchair for years, she was having to be hoisted in and out of her chair and she really wanted to be able to stand again so she could have more independence. It was an almost impossible situation as she had significant contractures (fixed bending of her joints) however with a lot of problem solving, some new adapted orthotic shoes and the patient putting in some hard work with physiotherapy, we did get her standing and the joy on her face was contagious!

Is there anything specific you would like to share regarding your experience?

If I had not looked into what roles were around I would never have found out about all the different AHPs – I would encourage anyone who wants to work in this area to look at all the possible jobs as there are some really rewarding roles.