Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. is proud to have a team of more than 50 dedicated clinicians serving patients across 19 locations throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Each clinician brings a unique set of skills, specialties, and passion for their craft—allowing us to deliver the highest level of personalized care to every patient we serve.
As part of our ongoing commitment to recognizing the outstanding individuals on our team, we regularly spotlight one of our orthotics and prosthetics clinicians. These Q & A features allow our patients to get to know the people behind their care—celebrating the expertise, dedication, and character that make them exceptional professionals.
This month, Union O&P is pleased to highlight Prosthetic Clinician Mike Ball, CP. Mike exemplifies the compassion, technical skill, and commitment to excellence that define our organization. His dedication to improving his patients’ lives and his passion for the field make him a valued member of our clinical team.
Q & A with Mike
When did you start with the company?
August 2025
Where did you study?
University of Pittsburgh.
How did you get into the field?
I started in CAD Design. Speaking with a classmate, I found out about 3D printing and its many applications. Eventually, I went back to college to pursue a career in Prosthetics.
What is your clinical specialization?
Prosthetics.
What made you decide to specialize in prosthetics?
Customization and problem solving are very fun and exciting to me. Add the fact that I can help someone’s life improve and that’s a winning formula for me.
What do you like most about working in O&P?
I enjoy being able to use my ability to help those who are misfortuned enough to need a prosthetic.
How do you think new technology could change the direction of O and P?
The 3D printing field has already been able to change the process somewhat. I believe that pushing the limits of its applications can advance the field.
What is your greatest achievement/what are you most proud of in your professional career?
Seeing someone’s eyes light up who didn’t think returning to their lifestyle was possible. Seeing the boost to their confidence visibly take place really makes me proud of a job well done.
What is your biggest joy in working with patients?
I love it when their eyes light up after they feel they can return to normalcy.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into prosthetics and orthotic care?
Make sure you have an eye for problem-solving, and your motivation is aiding the less fortunate. That’s the fuel for doing great things in this field.
What do you do outside of work?
Pickleball, hang out with friends, workout (occasionally…. Very occasionally)
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I’m a nerd (no question there) and know way too much about Lord of the Rings. I’ve also been to a few of the sites filmed in New Zealand.
What is your favorite food?
Any kind of truffle infused pasta. Or Buffalo chicken pizza.
Watch This!
Check out this video of Mike working with Union O&P prosthetic patient Earl S.
About Union O & P
Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. is a family-owned and operated company with over one hundred years of service. We have always been dedicated to providing the highest quality of patient care with a professional and compassionate approach. Our services and techniques are continuously being upgraded to achieve the highest standard of excellence.
