India Orthotics & Prosthetics

CPO of the Week: Kaushik Kumar Patra from Cuttack, India

I am Kaushik Kumar Patra, a dedicated Bachelor in Prosthetics & Orthotics (BPO) scholar with a strong interest in clinical biomechanics and rehabilitation innovation. I am originally from Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha, and currently pursuing my professional training in Cuttack. I am pursuing my BPO degree at Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR) — one of India’s premier institutes in rehabilitation sciences and assistive technology. I am currently in my 3rd year, actively involved in clinical postings, research presentations, and evidence-based patient management undergoing advanced academic and clinical training, managing orthopaedic and neurological cases under structured supervision.
 

What do you claim is your speciality your O&P passion?

My specialty and passion in orthotics and prosthetics lie at the intersection of clinical science and technology integration. I have a strong interest in pediatric rehabilitation, biomechanical correction, and the management of both orthopaedic and neurological conditions. I am particularly drawn to emerging digital workflows, including 3D scanning, 3D printing, and CAD-CAM–based orthotic and prosthetic fabrication. My professional focus also includes experience with bionic and myoelectric hand systems, dynamic stair gait analysis, podiatric biomechanical assessment, and cosmetic restoration in prosthetics. Ultimately, my goal is to blend traditional clinical reasoning with modern digital technologies to deliver outcomes that are precise, functional, and aesthetically refined.

What frustrates you about O&P?

What frustrates me most about the O&P field are the persistent systemic gaps that directly affect patient outcomes. These include late clinical referrals, limited awareness of the benefits of early orthotic intervention, and ongoing financial and accessibility barriers that prevent many individuals from receiving timely care. I am also concerned by the underutilization of advanced technologies in numerous clinical setups, despite their proven potential to enhance precision, efficiency, and patient experience. Rather than discouraging me, these challenges fuel my commitment to advocate for research-driven, technology-supported rehabilitation practices that promote earlier intervention, improved access, and better functional results.

What do you like most about practicing O&P?

What I value most about practicing orthotics and prosthetics is the opportunity to witness and contribute to genuine transformation. Whether it is correcting alignment, restoring mobility, or helping rebuild a patient’s confidence, each intervention has the potential to profoundly change someone’s quality of life. O&P uniquely enables me to combine engineering precision with human empathy, blending technical problem-solving with compassionate care. It is this powerful intersection of science, mechanics, and humanity that makes every patient case deeply meaningful and professionally fulfilling.

What is your greatest patient story in O&P?

One of my most memorable patient stories is Babina, a three-year-old child with spastic cerebral palsy who presented with significant challenges, including high muscle tone, poor trunk control, a scissoring gait tendency, and delayed gross motor milestones. Following a comprehensive assessment, we implemented an orthotic strategy centered on tone-inhibiting positioning, optimized biomechanical alignment, enhanced stability, and support for functional mobility. Through structured follow-up and multidisciplinary collaboration, her standing balance gradually improved and her assisted stepping became more coordinated. The most profound outcome, however, extended beyond the clinical progress — it was witnessing her mother’s renewed confidence and hope. This experience deeply reinforced my dedication to pediatric rehabilitation and the life-changing impact of early, thoughtful intervention.

How do you build rapport with patients in your care?

I build rapport with patients by prioritizing active listening before proposing any intervention, ensuring they feel heard and understood. I make a conscious effort to explain complex biomechanical concepts in clear, relatable language so patients and caregivers can confidently engage in the process. In pediatric cases, I closely involve caregivers in every decision, recognizing their essential role in outcomes. I also focus on setting realistic expectations and maintaining consistent follow-up, which helps foster trust, transparency, and a strong therapeutic partnership.

The Editor

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