Feature
Success With Pediatric Patients
By John T. Brinkmann, MA, CPO/L, FAAOP(D)
If you were asked to describe successful professional behaviors for working with pediatric patients, what would you include on your list? How would your list compare with those created by other practitioners? Would your list of professional action...
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Feature
Filling Pediatric Gaps With 3D Printing
By Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP
3D-printed solutions in upper-limb prosthetic care continue to garner attention. While traditional prosthetic approaches persist as a mainstay in adult care, several entities have argued the value of low-cost, scalable 3D-devices for children, par...
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Today’s Consumer
Stella Dibler-DeMare: Learning to Thrive With Prostheses
By Betta Ferrendelli
When Stella Dibler-DeMare was born, she came into the world with a mild form of cerebral palsy (CP) and Nievergelt's Mesomelic Dysplasia, a genetic form of dwarfism she inherited from her father, Frank "Scooter" DeMare, 37. Her fraternal twin sister,...
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Better Business
Developing an Action Plan for Your Business
By Chris Field, MBA
The beginning of a new year brings with it the feeling of a fresh start. What will we do with this opportunity? Will we follow through on our good intentions or end the year asking, "What exactly did we accomplish?" Did we further market share, pr...
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Innovations
Experimental Pope Wrist Unit Modification
By C. Rodney James, PhD
In this Innovation article, The O&P EDGE presents problem-solving techniques developed by an upper-limb prosthesis user to address durability issues. Background I sustained bilateral hand amputations in an accident in 1954, at age 15. During my te...
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Perspective
OANDP-L Yields Advice for Treating Neck Pain
By Jason Pantages, MS
A physician recently asked me to consult on a patient who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), an inherited condition that results in hypermobile joints and often leads to dislocations. The patient has high posterior neck pain, early features of brac...
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Got FAQs?
Billing and Collections Q&A
By Lisa Lake-Salmon
Courtesy of Shutterstock Inc. . Denials are difficult to identify and time-consuming to appeal.
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Industry Review - Conferences
Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium: Learn, Discover,
By Laura Fonda Hochnadel
Exclusive live coverage from The O&P EDGE. The 2017 National Meeting & Scientific Symposium of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy), held March 1-4 in Chicago was full of energy. Many sessions were well-attended, with...
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Viewpoint
Pediatric Care Requires Dynamic Thinking
By Andrea Spridgen
Working with children, whether the discipline is educational,medical, psychological, or daily care, takes aspecial skillset-the ability to communicate on a levelthey can understand, provide a sense of comfort, reassurance,and, often, an abundance...
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Online Exclusive
Foot and Ankle Immobilization Increases Understanding of Amputee Gait
The anatomical foot-ankle mechanism facilitates power generation during walking, but this mechanism is altered for people with bilateral transtibial amputations when they use passive prostheses. Researchers at Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center (NUPOC) studied the effects of bilateral foot and ankle immobilization on the gait of able-bodied participants to serve as a model for understanding gait and associated compensatory mechanisms in people with bilateral transtibial amputat
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Online Exclusive
Bouncing Back With New Transtibial Socket Technology
After becoming a bilateral transtibial amputee two years ago due to a car accident, Anthony Butterbaugh was full of determination but also a bit uncertain of how active his future would be.
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Online Exclusive
ISPO WHO GATE Symposium, 2017 World Congress
The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) 16th World Congress in South Africa will join the World Health Organization (WHO) in hosting the first-ever Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology (GATE) Symposium on “Assistive Technology for All” on the opening day, Monday, May 8.
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Socket-less Socket™ Pediatric
A socket that grows with you.
#LoveYourSocket
Available for all fitting levels.
844-MBIONIC (624.6642)
www.martinbionics.com
The Sensory Dynamic Orthosis (SDO) is a made-to-measure product that is designed and produced to the finest detail to provide dynamic compression to increase sensory and proprioceptive feedback and provide musculoskeletal support. This Lycra orthosis can assist with and lead to motor learning, neural integration, postural control, and abnormal tone. An SDO, providing constant support and sensory information, gives the patient the effect of therapeutic handling for the time that the garment is worn. The orthoses are designed to provide support and sensory information that will enable the user to better "feel" their body, arms, and legs, and use this sensory information to improve or learn to improve their functional ability.
Clinical observations and studies have shown that people with abnormal muscle tone have a capacity for achieving control over movement when suitable feedback is provided. With adequate musculoskeletal alignment and postural stability and control, functional performance is enhanced.
The evidence available shows that wearing the SDO leads to an improvement in positioning, posture, and function. This is thought to be due to the stimulation of the somatosensory and musculoskeletal systems leading to changes in tone and postural alignment, and improved proximal stability and biomechanical advantage for muscle activation and enhancement of learning strategies.
For more information, call, visit our website, or email .
Pro-Tech Orthopedics
866.819.1157
www.protech-intl.com
At Apis Footwear, we understand the importance of stability and safety when it comes to designing footwear for pediatric patients. Whether they are active or need accommodation for deformities, we make sure our footwear meets the expectations of the children and their parents. The Mt. Emey children's orthopedic line features symmetrical straight last, reverse last, double depth, extended counter support, and solid and durable non-slip outsoles that are all made of top-quality leather and fabric materials to ensure the right fit and longevity. They are offered in three widths (M, W, and XW) to support all sizes.
Our standard American lasts promote a true natural stance and help increase balance. Our children's shoes are made 1/8" deeper than conventional shoes to help prevent injury caused by unnecessary ankle pressure. They also include a broad opening for easy entry and for accommodating AFOs, custom orthotics, and braces. Apis is proud to present this new line of children's orthopedic shoes and happily offers free samples to our customers. Contact our experienced customer service staff for more information.
Apis Footwear
888.937.2747
www.apisfootwear.com
Introducing the new RUSH Kid™ pediatric foot. Built kid-tough, the
RUSH Kid pediatric foot can handle even the most extreme low- or
high-clearance patient. Run, jump, and play-the ultra low profile build
delivers the most dynamic energy return and smooth roll-through of any
pediatric foot on the market today. Mud, water, and sand are no problem! The
all-terrain RUSH Kid was built with active kids in mind. Say goodbye to broken carbon
feet! The next generation of RUSH Rebels has just arrived. Now available in sizes 19-21cm.
Visit www.rushfoot.com for more information.
Ability Dynamics
855.450.7300
www.rushfoot.com
Whether playing with friends or participating in sports, kids
are naturally active. Which is why Cheetah Xplore Junior
is designed to help them go from the classroom to the
playground without skipping a beat. Cheetah Xplore Junior
takes the high performance of the classic Össur Cheetah
running foot and adds a heel for stability, creating a hybrid
everyday/sports foot. The result is truly unique, just like every
kid. Combine with the Iceross Junior liner and the Total Knee
Junior for a complete pediatric solution. Learn more at
www.ossur.com/junior-solutions.
Össur
800.233.6263
www.ossur.com
Surestep is your full-service provider of custom-fit devices
for pediatric patients. You probably know us best for our
revolutionary Surestep SMO. But our product line also includes
AFOs, knee braces, back braces, and more. With uniquely flexible,
proprietary plastic, you'll receive orthoses designed for stability
as well as comfort. And we save you time by providing a two-day
turnaround by measurement, four days by cast. For patients with
unique needs, you have access to modifications of our existing
products and a complete central fabrication department. This
allows you to spend less time in fabrication and more time with
patients.
surestep
877.462.0711
www.surestep.net
The Defender is specifically designed to endure
the physical demands of young amputees.
Optimized carbon fiber layups provide
flexibility in a design that is robust and
virtually maintenance-free so that users can
feel confident over a range of high-impact
activities. Petite adult amputees will also benefit
from the small size offering (16-21cm) and
stiffness categories tailored to their low
body weight.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
Spinal Technology is a leading central fabricator of spinal orthoses and upper- and lower-limb orthoses and prostheses. Our ABC-certified staff orthotists and prosthetists collaborate with highly skilled, experienced technicians to provide the highest quality products, the fastest delivery time (including weekends and holidays), and unparalleled customer support in the industry.
Spinal Technology is the exclusive manufacturer of the Providence Scoliosis System, a nocturnal bracing system designed to prevent the progression of scoliosis, and the patented FlexFoam™ spinal orthoses. For more information, e-mail , call, or visit our website.
Spinal Technology Inc.
800.253.7868
www.spinaltech.com
Welcome to the world of high-performance prosthetics where flexibility rules. A first of its kind, the
Blaze's split-blade design allows runners to take corners on the track with ease and to run the trail with
confidence, regardless of the terrain. In the world of high-performance prosthetics where flexibility
rules, the Blaze will perform effortlessly through any running activity.
Fillauer is a global leader in the development, manufacture, and custom fabrication of orthotic
and prosthetic products used to treat pediatric limb loss, limb difference, and diseases such as
spina bifida, cerebral palsy, and club foot. Fillauer's pediatric prosthetic product line includes
the Aeris Activity (Syme's/Boyd), AllPro feet, Hosmer hooks, and the MightyMite line that
features a four-bar knee, adapters, and pylons. The RGO and custom torticollis collar
highlight Fillauer's specialized, pediatric orthotic product line.
To learn more about our pediatric products, visit our website or call one of our friendly
customer service representatives.
Fillauer
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
The V-VAS™ custom KAFO is fabricated
for your younger patients who require
treatment for lower-limb bowing
deformities. The dynamic V-Vas joint
system allows for sequential correction
of the deformity and accommodation
of growth with outstanding patient
compliance.
Anatomical Concepts, Inc.
800.837.3888
www.anatomicalconceptsinc.com
Titan O&P Fabrications is an ABC-accredited
central fabrication facility.
We fabricate each prosthetic device
and orthotic brace to specification for
pediatric and young adult patients.
Titan O&P focuses on high-quality
fabrication, customization, quick
fabrication time, and competitive
pricing.
Titan O&P Fabrications
844.OP TITAN
www.TitanOPFab.com
MD Orthopaedics is an orthopedic
device company focused on design,
manufacture, and distribution of Ponseti
method clubfoot products, including
four AFO solutions, FABs, training
models, and accessories. We also
distribute Dobbs Bars and C-Pro Direct's
new Abduction Dorsiflexion Mechanism
(ADM).
MD Orthopaedics
877.776.7384
www.mdorthopaedics.com
SPIO is proud to introduce
Core-Max, a family of lightweight
and versatile pediatric TLSOs that
incorporates all the benefits of a
traditional SPIO orthotic, with rigid
panels or stays. Mention this ad
and receive free shipping on your
next order.
SPIO
877.997.7746
www.spioworks.com
Orthomerica's Fuzion product line was
developed to enhance your orthotic
options by introducing the element of
compression therapy to orthotic bracing.
The original Fuzion design incorporated compression therapy for
AFOs. With the development of the Fuzion Orthotic System, we
offer multiple options for utilizing compression therapy. AFOs,
KAFOs, KOs, SMOs, EOs, WHOs, EWHOs, TLSOs, and LSOs are
all part of the Fuzion Orthotic System.
Who is a good candidate for a Fuzion product? Patients that
typically have challenges with standard plastic orthotic braces due
to spasticity or bony prominences.
Learn more at www.orthomerica.com/fuzion.
Orthomerica
800.446.6770
www.orthomerica.com
The kinderBAND remolding orthosis is designed and
manufactured by BioSculptor, Hialeah, Florida. All of our cranial
bands are digitally modified for improved fit and maximum
correction. Our modification protocols and custom trim lines
make the product easier to manage and result in a better wearing
experience. We accept both casts and scans.
For more information on our products and how to integrate
kinderBAND into your practice, call, email ,
or visit our website.
KinderBand
305.823.8300
www.kinderband.net
WBC has an extensive selection of smaller straps, pads, and buckles specifically for pediatrics. Hook and loop straps in a variety of configurations are available in 23 colors. They come in sizes starting at 5/8" wide, in styles including half hook/half loop; 25% hook/75% loop; and 25/75 straps with a washer-reinforced hook end. Matching ring-tab chafes can be paired with any of these straps. AFO pads are available in a slender version that is perfect for children and comes in 11 colors. WBC also carries PVC hook and loop strap kits that come in 14 colors, as pictured.
WBC Industries, Inc.
800.818.2932
www.wbcindustries.com
Caring for Children
Unlike most pediatric collars that are just smaller versions of an adult collar, Aspen® Pediatric Collars were designed with the help of nurses to specifically meet the needs of children. Patented features allow the collar to naturally contour to the curves and unique anatomies of pediatric patients without increasing pressure on their fragile skin. Five pediatric size options allow for a customized fit, and cover children from birth until the time they grow into adult products. Integrating proven design qualities from the adult Aspen Collar ensures the balance between motion restriction, flexibility, and gentle care is achieved.
Aspen Medical Products
800.295.2776
www.aspenmp.com
The sturdy, washable construction
of the TES Belt stands up to kids'
tough demands and the simplicity of
design makes it user-friendly. Parents
will be pleased with the affordability,
especially during growth spurts.
Syncor Ltd.
920.373.4300
Our caring experts come together every day to fabricate each Cranial Reshaping Orthosis to the uniqueness of your child. Committed to enhancing the quality of every child's life, both now and for their future.
Danmar Products
800.783.1998
www.danmarcranial.com
Knit-Rite® is the world's leading
developer and manufacturer of
innovative prosthetic and orthotic
textile products. Since 1923, we have
worked with practitioners to advance
textile solutions that promote mobility,
protection, and comfort for patients.
Call or email .
Knit-Rite
800.821.3094
www.knitrite.com
The MAGLOCK eases the frustration of donning a pin lock liner for patients who have transtibial or transfemoral amputations and K1-K3 activity levels. The MAGLOCK is developed to deliver up to 90 lb. of force.
The large distal target allows the patient to be 10 degrees off center and still achieve suspension. The ultimate product for people who have dexterity issues, have pin alignment issues, or require a caregiver, and much more. No wires, no battery.
ST&G
714.524.0663
www.stngco.com
Fom early rehab to full recovery, go anywhere
From rehab, to the home and the office, to the
gym and the trail, RHEO KNEE® XC confidently
goes anywhere, whatever the weather. In fact, in a
controlled clinical trial, RHEO KNEE XC enabled
users to walk farther, faster, and with less fatigue.
RHEO KNEE XC supports advanced capabilities
like cycling, leg-over-leg stair ascent, and running.
Learn more at www.ossur.com/rheoknee-xc.
Össur
800.233.6263
www.ossur.com
We guarantee the fit-if they don't fit, you don't pay. Choose any style
from our catalog and pay one flat price. Any modification within the
order is included at no additional charge (e.g., steel shank, heel lift,
wedge, or flare). One pair of custom-molded insoles are included with
each pair of shoes or boots.
Apis Footwear Co.
888.937.2747
www.apisfootwear.com
The Triple Action™ Stance/Swing Control Ankle Joint is designed to provide highly adjustable control of the lower limb during both the stance and swing phases of gait. The patent-pending component excels in the treatment of complex neuromuscular disorders. Alignment, plantarflexion resist, and dorsiflexion resist are independently adjustable, which help to simplify optimization. The component delivers high resistance, permitting mobilization of the ankle through both the stance and swing phases of gait.
Becker Orthopedic
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The end of rigid sockets
We've reinvented sockets from the ground
up. No more static socket shape. No more
hard ischial seat. No more loss of suction.
Using our NASA-based hammock-fit
technology, the Socket-less Socket™ truly
conforms to the user, providing a custom-fit
socket every time you put it on. Fitting a
socket is now microadjustable in real-time,
eliminating the need for the antiquated
casting, modification, and iterative test
socket fitting methods from the past.
View the free Socket-less Socket training
on our website.
Martin Bionics
844.624.6642
www.martinbionics.com
The OWLS® Program is a culmination of more than ten years of
clinical orthotic development accommodating diabetic ulcers
classified Wagner 1-4 with custom orthoses. These devices correct
and stabilize the ankle complex to better enhance diabetic wound
unloading and mobility and to promote healing. These orthoses will
complement the ongoing wound therapies and post-operative care
being offered at wound centers worldwide.
OWL products include:
- WHO™ Heel Relief
- WHO Forefoot Relief
- WHO Midfoot/Walking AFO
- shark-o™ Charcot Orthosis
- Advanced Diabetic Orthosis
For more information, visit www.orthomerica.com/owls.
Orthomerica
800.446.6770
www.orthomerica.com
The Infinite TF and Infinite TT are the first custom-molded, modular, and dynamic prosthetic socket systems that offer adjustability at each component in response to volume and shape changes of the residual limb. The Infinite Socket® product line offers a holistic improvement in patient comfort, and freedom through its unique, dynamic design. For more information, email
.
LIM Innovations
844.888.8546
www.liminnovations.com
TRS introduces a stronger, more versatile, two-piece cable-harness hanger system in standard and heavy-duty cable versions. It features a reusable hanger component and a replaceable, less expensive ball adapter cable fitting. The new Binary Hanger System is constructed of high-performance stainless steel and is significantly stronger than conventional hangers. Additionally, the system allows for double swaging the ferrule, capturing the cable and creating significant extra strength.
It's another superior-quality TRS product.
TRS Prosthetics
800.279.1865
www.trsprosthetics.com
Spinal Technology is a leading central fabricator of spinal orthoses and upper- and lower-limb orthoses and prostheses. Our ABC-certified staff orthotists and prosthetists collaborate with highly skilled, experienced technicians to provide the highest quality products, the fastest delivery time (including weekends and holidays), and unparalleled customer support in the industry.
Spinal Technology is the exclusive manufacturer of the Providence Scoliosis System, a nocturnal bracing system designed to prevent the progression of scoliosis, and the patented FlexFoam™ spinal orthoses. For more information, e-mail , call, or visit our website.
Spinal Technology Inc.
800.253.7868
www.spinaltech.com
Now all Allard 2.0 AFOs come with a Starter Interface pad and two tibia pads. Call customer service for more information. Make it an Allard 2.0 AFO today!
Allard USA
888.678.6548
www.allardusa.com
Tidwell's Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker is available in standard black with a removable Plastazote insert, a full interface lining, standard rocker sole, and DACRON back straps attached with copper rivets.
Tidwell's Orthotics is offering the CROW with a turnaround of 5-7 days at an incredible price.
Tidwell's Orthotics
877.346.5402
www.tidwellsorthotics.com
The SP High Density Liner features black fabric that allows for stability for active patients. The SP Liner has similar characteristics as silicone, but provides the superior comfort of gel.
ALPS
800.574.5426
www.easyliner.com
Transfer patterns are available for customization of orthoses, straps, and other orthotic applications. Personalizing a device can allow for greater acceptance and a happier, more satisfied patient. Curbell Plastics offers both heavy and standard transfer paper.
Heavy transfer paper performs well on large thermoplastic sheets. Heavy transfer paper offers less opportunity for wrinkling, tearing, and flyaways, and less disruption of patterns during the application process. We offer a variety of patterns and colors perfect for children and adults. New patterns are coming this spring.
Curbell O&P
888.858.0911
www.curbellplastics.com/oandp
Perfect for your pediatric fabrication needs.
Use these with your Dremel or Trautman carver to reach tight spaces and small edges. To order your five-piece kit or individual arbor, contact Fillauer or your preferred O&P distributor today.
Fillauer
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
For users who revel in extreme activities, Freedom
Innovations' Maverick fiberglass feet will exceed
their highest demands in all terrains to take them
wherever they want to go for whatever they want to
do. Made with a lightweight fiberglass composite
in an innovative heel/keel design, Maverick
feet offer durability and flexibility without
compromising on product weight or
energy storage and return.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
This unique AFO has been designed for people with Chopart amputations who wish to remain active. A traditional, full-length AFO will often be stiff and feel unnatural to such a patient. Using a hinged ankle and flexible foot plate with a segmented dynamic filler allows flexion before providing a "stop" that protects the residuum and prevents shoe vamp collapse. The PTB design and the anterior shell redistribute ground reaction forces up the lower limb. For more information, visit our website or call the lab toll-free.
Hersco Ortho Labs
800.301.8275
www.hersco.com
- Smarter: uses simple gestures to charge grips
- Faster: boost digit speed by up to 30%
- Smaller: new form-fitting anatomical design reduces profile in every dimension
Touch Bionics
(855) MYiLimb
www.touchbionics.com
Apply today!
From your home, complete the first two quarters (6 months) and final quarter (3 months) of the NUPOC 21-month MPO. Spend four quarters (12 months) in mentored practicum at NUPOC, building P&O skills by working with people who have neuromusculoskeletal impairments. NUPOC graduates are eligible for NCOPE residencies and P&O certification examinations. The NUPOC MPO prepares you to become a proficient clinician, deliver comprehensive P&O services, integrate research into clinical practice, and contribute to the P&O profession. NUPOC accepts candidates on a rolling admissions basis.
Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center
Feinberg School of Medicine
NUPOC
312.503.5700
www.nupoc.northwestern.edu
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