Employment of orthotists and prosthetists is expected to grow by 12 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
The aging baby-boom population will create a need for prosthetists because the two leading causes of limb loss, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, occur more frequently as people age. In addition, advances in technology may spur demand for prostheses that allow for more natural movement. The demand for orthotic devices, such as braces and orthopedic footwear, will likely increase because older people tend to need these support devices.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition