Book Review “3D Printing in Orthotics and Prosthetics”: Innovations and Opportunities

In recent years, 3D printing technology has emerged as one of the most transformative tools in the field of digital health, opening new horizons in the personalization of medical and rehabilitation services. This technology, through its capability of layer-by-layer fabrication of three-dimensional objects based on digital models, has been able to overcome the limitations of traditional manufacturing methods in the production of orthotic and prosthetic devices, paving the way for the design and fabrication of devices fully tailored to each patient's anatomy and specific needs. The convergence of advances in materials science, increasing accessibility to 3D printers, and growing clinical demand has created a fertile ground for the widespread application of this technology in rehabilitation services. From the fabrication of custom orthopedic implants and limb prostheses to the production of orthotic braces and customized insoles for diverse patient populations, the scope of 3D printing applications is rapidly expanding. However, the effective utilization of this technology requires a simultaneous understanding of engineering fundamentals, materials science, biomechanics, and clinical principles, and the lack of comprehensive resources that present these multidisciplinary perspectives in an integrated manner has always been apparent. In this regard, the book 3D printing in Orthotics and Prosthetics: Innovations and Opportunities by Dr. Salman Shaikh, published by Springer, has endeavored to bridge this gap by integrating clinical experience with technical knowledge. The present article reviews and critiques this book, and while elucidating its structure, content, and strengths, it also addresses its limitations and offers suggestions for future studies.