Which Insights of Biomechanical Research Should Be Considered When Treating the Diabetic Foot in Terms of Orthopedic Shoe Technology?
Presenter: Sicco A. Bus, PhD
Pressure reduction is key to preventing and managing diabetic foot ulcers. The goal of orthopedic footwear is to help redistribute the pressure placed on the foot over pressure points during ambulation. The study that will be discussed during the session focuses on the effectiveness of in-shoe plantar pressure measurements in efforts to improve the current orthopedic footwear, as well as in preventing the recurrence of ulcers. The study demonstrated that using these measurements may facilitate modifications to footwear in order to relieve areas of high pressure. However, it appears that improving upon orthopedic footwear design “does not significantly reduce risk of ulcer recurrence compared to non-improved orthopedic footwear,” according to Bus.
Effectiveness and Profitability of the Prosthetic-Orthotic Treatment-Priority Setting Versus Future Concepts.
Moderated by OTWorld Chairmen Klaus-Jürgen Lotz and Wolfram Mittelmeier
This panel discussion will cover several topics regarding the present and future states of the profitability of orthotics and prosthetics. There will be a panel discussion about the definition of profitability as applied to assistive devices, as well as the consideration of the usefulness of the device to the patient versus the device’s capabilities when determining the price. Another discussion topic will be the need for a high degree of professionalism in the field, as well incorporation of multidisciplinary approach into prosthetic and orthotic care. The final talk will cover the balance between health policy and giving patients access to quality assistive devices while avoiding ineffective prescriptions.
Session preview written by Nina Bondre.
