Translating research into prosthetic and orthotic practice

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.

To discuss factors affecting adoption of evidence-based practice and present a theoretical framework for its implementation into prosthetic and orthotic practice.

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.

The use of a theoretical model for implementation of evidence-based practice is likely to improve its adoption by prosthetic and orthotic clinicians. Clinical relevance The 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.