How should an orthotic fitter manage skin integrity during fitting sessions?

Managing skin integrity is a critical component of the orthotic fitting process, as the skin is sensitive to pressure, friction, and other forms of irritation that can lead to discomfort or injury. The correct approach involves checking for indicators of potential skin damage such as redness, blisters, or pressure sores. These signs are essential to observe because they can indicate that the orthotic device may not fit properly or that it is causing excessive pressure on the skin.

By being vigilant about these symptoms during fitting sessions, the orthotic fitter can make necessary adjustments to the orthotic device, ensuring that it fits comfortably and properly. This proactive management not only helps to enhance patient comfort but also plays a significant role in preventing skin breakdown, which can lead to more serious complications. Such checks are part of maintaining good skin health and ensuring a successful outcome for the patient.

Other strategies like avoiding any contact with the skin might prevent necessary evaluations, ignoring discomfort can lead to exacerbated issues, and applying creams before fitting may complicate the assessment of the skin condition. Therefore, consistently checking for skin integrity through observation of visible signs is the most effective practice during fitting sessions.