CTO Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CTO facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In normal gait, what is the approximate stance-to-swing phase ratio? → 60% stance / 40% swing
2. What is the PRIMARY ethical obligation of a certified Certified Orthotic Technician professional regarding confidential information? → Protect it from unauthorized disclosure at all times
3. What term describes the forward progression of the body's center of mass over the supporting foot? → Rockers of the ankle
4. What is the PRIMARY purpose of obtaining CTO certification in Certified Orthotic Technician? → To demonstrate verified competency and adherence to professional standards
5. Boutonnière deformity is characterized by which combination of joint positions? → PIP joint flexion and DIP joint hyperextension
6. How does the CTO body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
7. Which adjustment helps reduce pressure points in orthotic devices? → Add padding or reshape
8. What is a key factor in selecting orthotic materials based on patient evaluation? → Durability, flexibility, and comfort
9. What documentation is MOST critical to maintain for safety compliance in the Certified Orthotic Technician field? → Incident reports, training records, and inspection logs
10. Which fabrication technique is used to bond layers of materials in orthotic devices? → Lamination
11. Why is gait analysis important in orthotic patient evaluation? → Identify walking abnormalities
12. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Certified Orthotic Technician? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
13. What is the primary purpose of a supramalleolar orthosis (SMO)? → Provide mediolateral stability at the ankle while allowing sagittal plane motion
14. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Certified Orthotic Technician? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
15. What is the primary indication for a hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (HKAFO)? → Bilateral lower extremity paralysis requiring hip and trunk stabilization for ambulation
16. Which gait deviation is most commonly associated with weak hip abductors? → Trendelenburg gait
17. What documentation should be kept after device fitting? → Adjustments, feedback, and complications
18. When conducting a risk assessment for CTO operations, which factor should receive the HIGHEST priority? → Probability and severity of potential harm
19. Which orthosis design is most appropriate for a patient with median nerve injury at the wrist presenting with thenar muscle weakness? → Opponens orthosis
20. What should be documented during device fitting and adjustment? → Modifications and feedback
21. Which orthotic design feature is most effective at controlling subtalar joint pronation? → Medial wedging and a deep heel cup
22. How is joint range of motion assessed in patient evaluation? → Using a goniometer
23. What is the functional significance of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint during terminal stance? → It acts as the forefoot rocker allowing forward progression of the tibia
24. Serial static orthoses used to reduce an elbow flexion contracture are typically remolded or adjusted at what frequency? → Every 3–7 days
25. After reduction of a posterior elbow dislocation, an orthosis typically restricts which motion to prevent re-dislocation? → Terminal extension
26. Which scenario represents a violation of the Certified Orthotic Technician code of professional conduct? → Misrepresenting qualifications or certification status
27. A mallet finger orthosis must position the DIP joint in which position to allow terminal tendon healing? → Full extension or slight hyperextension
28. What is the function of a plantar fascia groove in a custom foot orthosis? → Accommodate the plantar fascia to reduce compression and irritation
29. How does the CTO body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
30. Which tool is commonly used for shaping orthotic materials? → Grinder or sanding tool