Many of you reading this are used to writing prescriptions for pharmaceuticals, writing orders for tests, consultations and treatments. You write chart notes and reports in such a way to convey information that can be easily understood. Granted, EMR programs have facilitated the production of these documents, for better or worse, regardless, it takes practice and experience to create useful and accurate documentation regarding the status of a patient's diagnosis and treatment. This is also true when discussing biomechanics and orthotic therapy.
The prescription form for an orthotic lab can be either a simple or complex document. Most of the information needed to produce a high quality device specific to a particular patient’s needs is there, and available for the busy orthotic prescriber. The KevinRoot Medical orthotic prescription form has pathology related suggestions for the selection of an appropriate orthotic device. Many take advantage of this convenience and we are happy to provide it. I want to emphasize the word “suggestion” here, and challenge you to start not relying on our suggestions but start formulating your own plan of attack of the various pathologies and conditions we frequently encounter. Every patient is unique, and every orthotic device should be customized. Become familiar with qualities of the various frame materials, the use of posts, pads, extensions and accommodations. If you have a patient with plantar fasciitis, for example, write out what you think is necessary to adequately address the condition, and compare your prescription to our suggestions. Over time, you will get better and better at writing an accurate and effective orthotic prescription that is truly worthy of the description “customized”. After all, you wouldn’t just write a prescription “NSAID” for your patient with an inflammatory condition?
Our mission at KevinRoot Medical is to help you improve the lives of the foot weary public any way we can.
