Inspirational Story

What do I do? 

I work as the Clinical Lead Orthotist at Rotherham Foundation Trust.

My role is a mixture of managerial and clinical.  I support the whole orthotic team on the day to day running of the orthotic service. 

As an Orthotist we see a varied group of patients and each day can be very different. 

Orthotics is the provision of external bracing to the body and this will include: Knee braces, spinal bracing, helmets, footwear and insoles.  The list is endless.

We treat both outpatients and inpatients and receive referrals from all specialities

What did I study at 6^th Form/college? 

Chemistry, Biology, Physics, General studies

What did I study at University? 

Prosthetics and Orthotics

What promoted you to study Orthotics? 

I was looking to do Physiotherapy, but at the same time I was applying for physiotherapy at Salford University, the university was looking for applicants for the new prosthetic and orthotic degree course. 

As the physiotherapy degree course was very oversubscribed, the university approached applicants to see if they would like to consider prosthetics and orthotics instead – I thought why not – and never looked back!

What have you learnt since studying to be an Orthotist?

Orthotics is involved in many areas of healthcare, but not many people actually know what an Orthotist is, or does. 

It is very rewarding and should be considered by more school leavers as a profession.

How have you got to the position you are in now? 

I started as a graduate orthotist here at Rotherham Foundation Trust, progressed to Senior Orthotist, left to be a locum for 5 years, returned to Rotherham Foundation Trust as senior Orthotist and then progressed into the clinical lead role when the post became vacant.