In orthotics and prosthetics (O&P), the clinical outcome isn’t the only measure for success but how a patient feels in their device is just as crucial. Fit, comfort and wearability are often what determine whether a device truly improves the daily life of a patient or if it becomes yet another source of frustration.  

In fact, one study discussed during Spentys’ webinar on Navigating Digital Transformation in O&P, shows that 79% of patients preferred digitally manufactured devices over traditional ones.

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Why patient preference matters in O&P

‍While clinician precision and device performance have always been central to O&P outcomes, patient satisfaction is becoming increasingly important - not just as a clinical metric but as a driver of trust, adoption and long-term success.  

In a space where every device is intended to improve day to day mobility, comfort and independence, how a patient feels in their orthosis directly influences adherence, outcomes and loyalty to their provider.  

Clinincs that prioritize patient centered care by offering lighter, better fitting and more comfortable solutions, are not only enhancing health outcomes but also building stronger reputations in an increasingly competitive landscape.

The challenges with traditional orthoses  

Traditional orthoses are often manufactured through labor intensive, manual processes like casting, mold modification and hand finishing. While these workflows are time-tested, they are becoming harder to sustain in today’s healthcare environment.  

Key limitations include:

• Fit inconsistencies that require multiple follow-ups  

• Slow, manual steps that delay device delivery  

• Fragmented digital tools that create inefficiencies

• Long training curves that hinder staff onboarding  

• Outdated reimbursement models that haven’t kept pace with rising demand  

These challenges not only increase clinical workload but they also negatively impact the patient's day-to-day experience. In a healthcare climate where both staff and patients demand faster, more personalized care, traditional methods are increasingly difficult to justify.  

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The Spentys approach to custom fit‍‍

‍Spentys addressed these challenges through its modular digital workflow, combining automation, precision and customization. By using advanced software for 3D printed orthoses, clinicians can scan and digitally model orthoses with greater speed and accuracy, dramatically improving fit consistency and reducing the need for costly adjustments.  This approach empowers clinics to create custom made orthoses that better reflect a patient’s unique anatomy and needs, while simultaneously optimizing internal processes.  With Spentys’ tools, clinicians can configure workflows that match their medical expertise while automating repetitive steps like scan correction and basic design adjustments – freeing them to focus on delivering high quality patient outcomes at scale.

Real results: 79% prefer the fit  

In collaboration with a Netherlands-based clinic, Spentys evaluated the real-world impact of digital workflows and 3D printed orthoses. Among the key findings:

• Patients performed just as well with digitally produced orthoses  

• Devices were lighter and provided a better anatomical fit  

• 79% of patients reported a preference for the digitally manufactured orthoses  

Additional observations included increased clinic efficiency and an expansion in patient onboarding capacity due to reduced time constraints on staff.

Notably, the patient’s preference was not driven by aesthetics or novelty but rather by tangible improvements: lighter weight, improved comfort, better pressure distribution and an overall sense of a more personalized fit.  

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A better future for patients and clinics  

The future of O&P is not about replacing the clinical touch but enhancing it. Technology should empower clinicians and technicians instead of replacing them, and patients should not have to choose between personalization and efficiency, they deserve both.  

This is where Spentys delivers real value: enabling the creation of custom-made orthoses with greater precision, faster turnaround and improved consistency, benefiting both patient outcomes and clinic operations.  

When patients feel confident and comfortable with their devices, they are more likely to use them consistently, leading to better outcomes and even broader layer of impact:  

• Improved scheduling flow

• Increased capacity for new patients

• Fewer fitting issue and remakes  

• Higher first-time success rates  

• Greater staff satisfaction across clinical environments.

With tools designed to reduce burdens, streamline repetitive tasks and elevate the patient's experience, Spentys is helping clinics build a future where better care is not just possible - it's practical.  

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Why Spentys?

More than just software providers, we’re a technology partner who consults, guides and builds tailored digital strategies that integrate seamlessly into your clinic’s workflow.

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No one-size-fits-all solutions. Whether you're a single clinic or an enterprise group, we work alongside your team to deliver:

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• Strategic onboarding aligned with your operations
• Custom workflows that reflect your clinical expertise
• Expert support to scale innovation over time

We don’t just deliver tools, we help transform how care is delivered.

At Spentys, we believe digital transformation should feel natural, not forced. With our technology and our team, we help clinics move forward with confidence - and build a future where precision, speed, and personalization are standard.

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Curious how digital workflows could fit into your clinic’s growth?  

Let’s start a conversation. Our team at Spentys is here to explore what’s possible for you.