Translating research into prosthetic and orthotic practice

Abstract

Background: Evidence-based practice is commonly accepted as a means of improving patient outcomes; however, there is little understanding of the processes required to successfully implement it into prosthetic and orthotic practice. Objectives: To discuss factors affecting adoption of evidence-based practice and present a theoretical framework for its implementation into prosthetic and orthotic practice. Discussion: Numerous factors that affect adoption of evidence-based practice are discussed, ranging from individual factors to those that can be attributed to administrative and environmental issues. Specific factors are likely to be context specific and are influenced by the manner in which evidence-based practice is introduced into the working environment. It is argued that successful implementation of evidence-based practice requires consideration of numerous interrelated factors. A formal translating research into practice model is presented as a means of developing a strategic plan that considers all relevant factors and maximizes acceptance of evidence-based practice into prosthetics and orthotics clinical practice. Conclusions: The use of a theoretical model for implementation of evidence-based practice is likely to improve its adoption by prosthetic and orthotic clinicians. Clinical relevanceThe demand for prosthetists/orthotists to utilize evidence-based practice is increasing. Lack of strategic planning throughout the implementation phase is likely to compromise adoption of evidence-based practices by clinicians.

A conceptual framework for orthotic and prosthetic education

“…Health care models and frameworks, such as evidence-based approaches 9,10 and social determinants of health, 11,12 provide a structure for advancing O&P clinical practice and expanding the complexity of clinical reasoning. To help students integrate and apply principles from potentially useful health care frameworks, educators must be explicit about the variables that influence clinical reasoning (e.g.…”

Understanding the adoption of digital workflows in orthotic & prosthetic practice from practitioner perspectives: a qualitative descriptive study

“…Vendors can consider subsidizing the equipment used for training and, in return, encouraging wider DT adoption among new practitioners by instilling greater proficiency and confidence with adequate training. 30,33,35…”

“…Vendors can consider subsidizing the equipment used for training and, in return, encouraging wider DT adoption among new practitioners by instilling greater proficiency and confidence with adequate training. 30,33,35 This study has several limitations. All participants volunteered their involvement with the study; it should be acknowledged that those O&P practitioners might have a more favorable attitude toward DT.…”

A model to facilitate implementation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health into prosthetics and orthotics

“…Principles of evidence-based practice should be applied when determining the most appropriate intervention. 31 , 32 This requires that clinicians weigh up research evidence, clinical experience and patient values when arriving at a clinical decision. When reviewing research evidence, it is important to consider the goals of the intervention, to evaluate how specific research outcomes relate to these goals and to determine if research findings are relevant for the individual patient.…”