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. A technician is grinding carbon fiber components. Which PPE is MOST critical beyond eye protection? → N95 or P100 respirator
3. What is the primary advantage of carbon fiber composite over polypropylene for orthotic fabrication? → Higher strength-to-weight ratio
4. Which measurement technique is used to determine the appropriate trim-line placement on an AFO to allow 5° of dorsiflexion assist? → Goniometric measurement of passive ankle dorsiflexion range
5. What is the PRIMARY ethical obligation of a certified Certified Orthotic Technician professional regarding confidential information? → Protect it from unauthorized disclosure at all times
6. When measuring a patient for a supramalleolar orthosis (SMO), which anatomical landmark is used to determine the proximal trim line height? → Just above the malleoli
7. What is the primary reason an orthotics technician must document the lot number of every material used in device fabrication? → To enable targeted recalls if a material is found to be defective
8. A patient requires a supramalleolar orthosis (SMO) with medial longitudinal arch support. Which material combination is most appropriate for the shell? → 1.5–2mm polypropylene with closed-cell foam liner
9. Which measurement is essential when fitting a thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) to ensure proper load transfer through the pelvis? → Iliac crest height and inter-ASIS distance
10. What term describes the forward progression of the body's center of mass over the supporting foot? → Rockers of the ankle
11. Which solvent is most commonly used to bond Barge cement layers when attaching leather to thermoplastic orthotic components? → Contact cement thinner (MEK)
12. Which type of fire extinguisher is appropriate for an orthotics lab where thermoplastics and electrical equipment are both present? → ABC dry chemical extinguisher
13. A used ankle-foot orthosis is returned for repair. What is the FIRST step before beginning work? → Disinfect the device per the lab's infection control protocol
14. What is the PRIMARY purpose of obtaining CTO certification in Certified Orthotic Technician? → To demonstrate verified competency and adherence to professional standards
15. Boutonnière deformity is characterized by which combination of joint positions? → PIP joint flexion and DIP joint hyperextension
16. How does the CTO body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
17. Which adjustment helps reduce pressure points in orthotic devices? → Add padding or reshape
18. What is a key factor in selecting orthotic materials based on patient evaluation? → Durability, flexibility, and comfort
19. What documentation is MOST critical to maintain for safety compliance in the Certified Orthotic Technician field? → Incident reports, training records, and inspection logs
20. Which fabrication technique is used to bond layers of materials in orthotic devices? → Lamination
21. Why is gait analysis important in orthotic patient evaluation? → Identify walking abnormalities
22. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Certified Orthotic Technician? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
23. Spasticity assessment using the Modified Ashworth Scale records a score of 3 for a patient's plantar flexors. This means: → Considerable increase limiting full PROM
24. What is the primary purpose of a supramalleolar orthosis (SMO)? → Provide mediolateral stability at the ankle while allowing sagittal plane motion
25. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Certified Orthotic Technician? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
26. For a diabetic patient requiring an AFO, which liner material provides the BEST combination of pressure relief and moisture management? → Plastazote (polyethylene foam)
27. What is the primary indication for a hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (HKAFO)? → Bilateral lower extremity paralysis requiring hip and trunk stabilization for ambulation
28. Which gait deviation is most commonly associated with weak hip abductors? → Trendelenburg gait
29. What documentation should be kept after device fitting? → Adjustments, feedback, and complications
30. What is the purpose of applying a release agent to a plaster positive model before vacuum-forming thermoplastic over it? → To prevent the thermoplastic from adhering to the plaster