Allow me to start by defining science and technology as follows:

· Science refers to knowledge about the structure and behavior of the natural and physical world based on facts that you can prove, for example, by experiments.
· Technology refers to scientific knowledge used in practical ways in industry, for example in designing new machines.

From these definitions given by the Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary, one can see a thin line between the fields in question, though they are interrelated.

Science studies an already existing element, forms ideas and makes conclusions based on tested and proven deductions. Technology, on the other hand, is conceptual and practical! In technology, an idea is first conceived and then translated into a visual and realistic situation. However, technology is often misunderstood to mean science. Low-income countries are currently in need of huge investments in orthotics and prosthetics (O&P). Though a sophisticated prosthetic or orthotic device has a lot of science in it, a special emphasis must be placed on developing good orthopaedic technology.

We therefore need more awareness that O&P is technologically based. This reinforces the need for O&P professionals from the non-industrialized and industrialized worlds to form networks. The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics is an excellent example of this.

Disability has never been "inability" as far as the social and moral value of human life is concerned. In general, attitudes towards people with disabilities have changed, both in terms of the language used for reference and the societal prejudices that deprive the concerned individuals of career prospects.

Frustration due to lack of resources and education is the driving force for progress in O&P, as pointed out by colleagues in previous issues of ORTHOLETTER. This is seen, for example, in the misalignment of devices, or in devices manufactured in locations where there are no well-equipped rehabilitation centres. O&P professionals have a social and moral responsibility towards people with physical disabilities. The love and service for humanity, together with a sympathetic appreciation of human

problems should be a great consolation for us. People with disabilities are always struggling with problems such as poverty, inequality, disadvantage and discrimination. Obstacles could prevent us from rendering quality service, as is expected of us after our basic training. Nevertheless, I pose a challenge to all of us in this rather noble profession to be armed with "D3C", which is:

DETERMINATION when we are undervalued,

DEDICATION to orthotics and prosthetics, even when we are not appreciated for our services,

DEVOTION in instances when we express our personal dissatisfaction with not having a voice on the rehabilitation team, and above all

COMMITMENT even when we work in an isolated and ill- equipped orthopaedic laboratory, where we have personal hardships and are not properly supervised, with few continuing education prospects. Even then let us aim to steer prosthetics and orthotics to greater heights of prosperity. The father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, and his French counterpart Ambroise Pare, the father of orthopaedics, never gave up during their days! Who are we to give up today amid advancements that have been seen throughout our profession worldwide.

In conclusion, the developing world is in great need of a well-blended mixture of science and technology with a greater emphasis on orthopaedic technology than there is now. To properly serve people with disabilities we must also further develop our profession through networking, awareness and dedication. Do not ever forget that our relentless efforts and contributions to O&P will one day be rewarded and will contribute greatly to the success of our profession. DOMINOS VOBISCUM prosthetics and orthotics.

The author can be contacted at:
MOI Teaching and Referral Hospital
Department of Orthopaedic Technology
P.O. BOX 3
30100 ELDORET-KENYA.
TEL:+254-722-652-322
E-mail : thomasiwalla@yahoo.com