Klaas Postema

Introduction We communicate. It is crucial for our existence and survival. Our most dominant form of communication is verbal. While words are considered ‘the most powerful drug’1 and ‘our most inexhaustible source of magic’,2 use of words in a professional environment receives remarkably scant attention.

Background and aim When a client chooses not to wear technically sound therapeutic footwear, the opportunity for achieving the maximum potential for good health and mobility is lost; such footwear may end up in the cupboard.1–4 Perhaps the most important reason for not adhering with therapeutic footwear is a lack of acceptance.5,6 This acceptance may concern the client’s acceptance of their condition; if the underlying illness is not accepted, the footwear will not be accepted.