Behind every brace and every movement regained, there’s a team of skilled hands and compassionate hearts at Health Sciences Centre’s (HSC) Orthotics Department.
This specialized team is responsible for providing orthotic solutions for a wide range of mobility disorders and injury rehabilitation. This work includes custom and off-the-shelf bracing across the whole body. The Orthotics Technicians are responsible for fabricating, modifying and repairing these devices by hand.
Garth Ward and Kevin Shead are just two of the dedicated technicians who bring mobility, stability, and freedom to patients across Manitoba.
Their job is far from ordinary. Using a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, they design, fabricate, modify, and repair custom orthotic devices, braces, and supports that help patients recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, or live more comfortably with physical disabilities.
From back braces to special shoes and helmets, these devices are as unique as the Manitobans who wear them.
“Every device we make is custom designed and fit to each client,” said Ward, a Registered Orthotic Technician, who has worked in HSC’s Orthotics Department for 18 years. “That brings unique challenges to every project, and that’s part of what makes this work so rewarding.”
Ward’s journey into orthotics started at Children’s Hospital, where he worked as a radiology clerk. Coming from a family of healthcare professionals, he found himself drawn to a career path that offered deeper involvement in patient care and a hands-on role making a difference.
“I enjoy the fact that my work brings mobility and autonomy to people every day,” he explained. “As a registered technician, I build custom orthotic devices for a wide range of inpatient and outpatient clients. This involves working with plaster models, CNC carved models, over which I fabricate with a range of thermoplastics, in addition to aluminum, steel and titanium components. We make all manner of padding and strapping with leather, foam and fabric components on these braces, which involves shaping, sewing, and riveting.”
Shead, a Registered Orthotic Technician for 10 years, says every single brace is unique and comes with its own set of challenges. But being able to make a positive impact in a patient’s life is what continues to motivate him.
“I chose this career because I get to work with my hands on a daily basis, it challenges me and I like solving problems. The greatest thing about this job is that I can contribute to a patient’s rehabilitation and quality of life,” Shead said. “Every time I get feedback from a clinician about a patients’ progress I feel like I’m making a difference.”
Today, Shead says his favourite projects include building custom leather AFOs (ankle-foot-orthoses) and full leg KAFOs (knee-ankle-foot-orthoses).
“They involve a bit of everything, sewing, metalwork, plastics. They push your skills.”
For those curious about a career in orthotics and prosthetics, both technicians encourage taking the leap.
“If you’re curious, enjoy problem-solving, working with your hands, and want to help people, you’ll love this work,” said Ward.
“Every day is different,” Shead added. “And every brace is a new challenge. It’s incredibly rewarding.”
Shared Health recognizes National Orthotics and Prosthetics Day (O&P Day) to highlight the highly skilled role of Orthotists, Prosthetists, Technicians and their important impact in a patient’s rehabilitation journey.
Celebrate National Orthotics and Prosthetics Day by registering for the Orthotics Prosthetics Canada webinar and learning more here.
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