Alan Gordon

I graduated from the University of Strathclyde in 2009 with a BSc. Hons. degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics. This has enabled me to follow my interest into prosthetics. I initially began working in Oxford Centre for Enablement later moved to Bristol Centre for Enablement. During my time in Bristol I developed my career by taking on the role of Clinical Lead. Where I had the opportunity to support colleagues and students during this time and provide CAD training for the company which gave me a sense of the role and importance of education.

In both these prosthetics clinics I gained exposure in a wide variety of patients treating lower and upper limb. Improving my knowledge and understanding of socket technologies. In 2013, Bristol was nominated as a Murrison centre, as a result veterans were able to transfer from DMRC Headley Court. This allowed me to work with patients who had suffered complex trauma and often multiple limb loss already with specialist interventions. Most had been able to achieve physical independence at the highest level possible and it was from there I really became interested in the advanced componentry including mechatronic knees. It allowed me to see the benefit of advanced componentry and the capabilities it has to allow people to achieve a high level of functionality. With the NHS Micro-Processor Knee (MPK) funding in 2016, this provided a turning point in prosthetics. This was a great opportunity to see the benefits that MPKs can make to patients’ quality of lives.

In 2017 I started with Ottobock as an Academy Clinician, I was initially blown away by the level of training and knowledge provided but quickly realised how important this is. It really helped to understand all the components to a high level of detail which in turn can help get the best results for the patient. Within my role we provide education and assistance for clinicians and patients using Ottobock components. I feel very privileged that on an almost daily basis we are able to see how the right component can help to change lives. In 2022 I became Lead Academy Clinician, and I am now joined with 3 colleagues who all bring a wealth of experience, this allows us to bring better support and training for clinicians and patients throughout the UK and Ireland.