Employment is expected to grow 4 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations.
An aging baby-boomer population will create a need for technicians because diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the two leading causes of loss of limbs, are more likely to occur in older people. The demand for orthotic devices, such as braces and orthopedic footwear, will increase because older people tend to need these supportive devices.
Although advances in technology may spur demand for prostheses that allow for more natural movement, increased productivity in manufacturing due to automation will slow growth for technicians.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition