First year NYITDPT students traveled to Progressive Orthotics and Prosthetics in Albertson for an up close look at the fabrication of prosthetic and orthotic devices. Students were able to see plaster casts being modified prior to molding and prosthetic check sockets being made, learned about bench alignment, the different plastics used for different applications, suspension systems and how modifications are made after fabrication. Students also learned about about the prosthetic industry and education required for practice.

This was an eye-opening experience into the intricate steps that must be taken to ensure proper fit and function in the population with amputation. As one student stated, “It made it so real for us. It put everything together that we had discussed in class.”