Clinical shape capture remains one of the most fundamental — yet rapidly evolving — elements of orthotic and prosthetic practice. As digital technologies continue to gain traction, the profession faces an increasingly important question:
How do clinicians decide between traditional hand casting and modern 3D scanning?
This question sits at the heart of a new research project by Daniela Oyarzun, a final-year student in the BSc Prosthetics and Orthotics programme at the University of Strathclyde.
As part of her 4th-year curriculum, Daniela’s study investigates:
Rather than framing digital and traditional methods as competitors, the research aims to understand the discernment process clinicians use in real practice settings.
Shape capture directly influences:
✔ Socket fit and comfort
✔ Orthotic effectiveness
✔ Biomechanical accuracy
✔ Fabrication efficiency
✔ Patient satisfaction
With clinics increasingly adopting hybrid analogue–digital workflows, understanding how practitioners evaluate these methods is critical for:
Daniela’s project has received formal approval from the:
Departmental Ethics Committee
Faculty of Engineering
University of Strathclyde
This ensures that the research adheres to rigorous standards regarding:
Demonstrating early professional engagement, Daniela’s research poster has been:
📢 Advertised through BAPO
(British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists)
This exposure highlights the profession’s recognition of the study’s relevance and its contribution to ongoing discussions about:
While technology comparisons often focus on speed, precision, and digital advantages, clinicians know the decision is rarely that simple.
Key considerations may include:
Daniela’s work seeks to capture these nuanced, human, and contextual factors.
As O&P continues its transition into a more digitally enabled profession, research like this plays an essential role in:
✅ Informing clinical guidelines
✅ Supporting balanced education models
✅ Identifying training needs
✅ Understanding barriers to adoption
✅ Protecting clinical value and judgement
The outcomes of this study may provide valuable insights for:
By examining how clinicians think — not just what tools they use — Daniela’s research contributes to a deeper understanding of modern clinical decision-making in prosthetics and orthotics.
Contact Daniela @ - daniela.oyarzun-ulloa.2022@uni.strath.ac.uk