How can patient history impact orthotic fitting?

Patient history plays a crucial role in orthotic fitting, as it reveals previous injuries and medical conditions that may have a significant impact on a patient's mobility. Understanding a patient's history allows the fitter to take into account how previous injuries or chronic conditions, such as arthritis or neurological disorders, can affect the current state of the patient's musculoskeletal system and overall functionality.

When tailoring an orthotic device, it is essential to know how these past events have influenced the patient's ability to move, balance, and perform daily activities. This information helps in selecting the appropriate orthotic design, materials, and adjustments that will best support the patient's unique needs and enhance their mobility, thus ensuring a more effective and personalized treatment approach.

While the other options mention important factors (such as allergies, comfort levels, and financial status), they do not address the specific impact of patient history on physical limitations and mobility which are central to the orthotic fitting process. Understanding the history of a patient’s injuries and conditions directly relates to how well the orthotic device will compensate for existing issues and improve the patient’s overall functional abilities.