What is the primary focus of an orthotic fitter when considering pressure points?

The primary focus of an orthotic fitter when considering pressure points is to minimize pain for the patient. This is crucial because pressure points can lead to discomfort, skin breakdown, or increased morbidity, making it essential for the orthotic device to fit properly and distribute forces evenly across the limb. By paying careful attention to how the orthotic interacts with the patient's anatomy, fitters can ensure that the device does not exert excessive pressure on vulnerable areas, thus enhancing the patient's overall experience and willingness to wear the orthosis.

While comfort of the orthosis and ensuring stability of the joint are important factors, they are ultimately tied to the overarching goal of minimizing pain. If an orthosis is uncomfortable or causes pain due to pressure points, the stability of the joint may be compromised as the patient may not wear the orthosis as intended. Adjusting the material can also be significant, but it is often a part of the efforts to minimize pain and improve comfort, rather than the primary focus on its own. Thus, the best approach centers on the objective of preventing discomfort for the patient through proper fitting.