Feature
Setting Yourself Apart: Is a Niche O&P Business for You?
By Miki Fairley
The O&P EDGE talked to successful professionals in O&P and pedorthic practices, consulting businesses, and manufacturing facilities about why they chose to develop a niche business and how they went about doing so. Their experiences and advice...
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Feature
Managing a Practice: In Search of the Perfect Size
By Judith Philipps Otto
It's a universal problem that applies not only to the size and level of development of an O&P practice, but to almost every facet of life where creativity allows expansion and exploration. How far? How big?
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Feature
The Road to Parity
By Morgan Sheets
What happens when a national organization steps forward and takes a risk in order to meet the needs of its constituents? With the formation of a new campaign, the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is helping to shape healthcare policy one state a...
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Feature
Tim Jeffers: Defined by Determination
By Louis Givens, CPO
In May 2006, an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded in Iraq, leaving 22-year old Marine Corporal Tim Jeffers with severe wounds to two-thirds of his body. Today, through sheer determination to regain his former life at the Department of Vet...
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Perspective
A Letter to All Orthotists...
By Peggy Pascal
Back in 1954, when I was only three, my orthotists worked out of a very small cottage about a mile from my childhood home. The waiting room walls were filled with framed certificates and colored drawings made my Mr. Sabold's little clients especia...
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Industry Review
Reaching Beyond Our Borders 2007 ‘Exceeds Expectations’
By Tonja Randolph
Rob Kistenberg, CPO, FAAOP, U.S. ISPO chair introduces Marlo Ortiz, CP (M). U.S.
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Industry Leader
Mel Stills: Catalyst for Progress
By Miki Fairley
Mel Stills, CO(E), HFISPO, has been a catalyst, a mover and a shaker, a man who makes things happen. Not that he would tell you that. However, after talking with friends and colleagues who have worked alongside Stills over the years, it's clear th...
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Industry Leader
How P&O Professionals Can Make a Difference
By Miki Fairley
"There's much more to the P&O profession than the 'cookbook' approaches that are often taught. If you want to be really challenged, just take a look at some of the cases they are seeing in Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Angola." Thus says Mel...
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Stepping Out
Treating Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
By Séamus Kennedy, BEng (Mech), CPed
Although there are many lower-extremity diagnoses presented to O&P for consideration and treatment, few are as common as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). This condition is more prevalent than ever, due to factors such as an increasingly...
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Outside In
Can Case Managers Make Your Life Easier?
By Miki Fairley
In today's fragmented healthcare environment, a case manager can play a pivotal role-one that affects you, the orthotist/prosthetist. But what exactly is the role of a case manager? For whom does a case manager work?
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Invention & Innovation
Teen’s Invention to Help Amputees in Ghana
By Miki Fairley
Amputees in Ghana, Africa-and perhaps in other developing countries-will benefit from the creativity and compassion of a teenage inventor. Jim McElhiney, CPO, provided Grayson with expert guidance so that Grayson's idea could become a reality. Gra...
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Education Update
Life’s Interruptions and Course Changes
By Chelan M. Pedrow
From left: Second-year MSPO student Ron Roiz, Chelan Pedrow, and first-year MSPO student Missy Malkush on Chelan's last night in Georgia. I would often sit atop the loft bed in my spacious dorm room at Georgia Tech studying late into the night....
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Sports
Sports
USOC Expands Military Program to Support Disabled Vets The United States Olympic Committee (USOC) recently announced the Veterans Paralympic Performance Program (VP3), an expanded military program, which will provide elite-level sports program...
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Creature Care
Back in the Swim of Things
By Miki Fairley
Prosthetic Fin Helps Dolphin Swim, Jump A female bottlenose dolphin named Fuji can now swim and jump again like other dolphins-thanks to an artificial fin. Fuji had lost 75 percent of her flukes due to an unknown disease. In 2002 symptoms of the...
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Progress on Parity
New States Join the Fight for Prosthetic Parity
By Morgan Sheets
The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is pleased to have two new state partners in its national campaign to advance parity legislation. Missouri and Indiana are both working to build committees in order to introduce bills in 2008. A group of p...
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Got FAQs?
Got FAQs?
By Lisa Lake-Salmon
Having trouble keeping up with the new Medicare 2007 rules andregulations? Overwhelmed by the numerous code changes? Count on"Got FAQs" to help you understand the full aspect of billingguidelines and procedures, which will effectively increase y...
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Viewpoint
Being Different Isn’t Just Good, It’s Essential
By Karen Henry
Growing up , most kids just want to fit in with the other kids. As they get older, they find that being different isn't so bad. If you're a business owner, being different is essential.
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Spinal Solutions products can now be ordered through any
of SPS three Sales Centers in Atlanta, Georgia; Paso Robles,
California; or Port Orange, Floridaand online at http://eStore.spsco.com
Features of the Original Prefabricated EZ Stride
include:
- True floor reaction action.
- Minimizes contact on the anterior tibia.
- Contact at proximal tibia and footplate ONLY.
- Super-flexible calf band conforms to every patient.
- Malleolus relief is precisely positioned to match the
anatomical contours of the patient. The lateral strut is fabricated
to maintain a 1/4-in. offset, thereby eliminating potential contact
with patient.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
While other companies race to find a coating that
wont peel, or a cover that wont run, we decided to change the
properties of the silicone. Evolution Silk is a
breakthrough in silicone chemistry, allowing for a surface that
will slide on itself for easy donning and doffing, while still
keeping all the desirable properties of our traditional
platinum-cured silicone.
- Easy to don and doff.
- No coatings that crack, peel, or wear off.
- No covers to tear or run.
- Compatible with all high-vacuum sockets.
- Medical-grade silicone.
- Available in custom cushion or pin designs.
Evolution Liners Inc.
407.839.6213
www.evolutionliners.com
Sometimes simple is best. Use Bondo and scotch
cast to mount the socket on the alignment plate,
and move your four-bolt adaptor anywhere you want. Add an angle
plate, and youre set.
Yes, its large, but youll be amazed at the time it can save.
Once the alignment is complete, swap it out for one of our mounting
plates.
Velocity Labs
407.841.6335
www.velocity-labs.com
The CaliforniaTM ECO Extension Compression Orthosis, manufactured
by Orthomerica®, is available from PEL Supply. The
ECO was developed to comfortably extend the
thoracic spine, unweight the wedged vertebral body, and stabilize
the pelvis and lumbar spine to promote healing and ease pain. It is
effective for individuals with osteoporosis, vertebral compression
fractures, thoracic strains, and debilitating kyphosis.
Includes the following features:
- Patented California abdominal component provides one-pull,
patient-adjustable compression.
- Detachable abdominal component can be used independently as a
functional lumbar spinal orthosis.
- Patient-controlled shoulder extension improves compliance and
tolerance.
PEL Supply Company
800.321.1264
www.pelsupply.com
OPTECs NEW Lumbitec LSO and
TLSO is designed to support patients at every
recovery stage. Made of a breathable cotton-rich fabric.
Lumbitec has front and back moldable polymer
panels, rear and lateral anatomical stays, and a unique patented
traction closure system for maximum compression with minimal
effort. Lumbitec provides compression to unload
intervertebral discs and immobilize and restrict unwanted
motion.
During rehabilitation stages, the detachable polymer panels can
be removed to create a corset with flexible stays. The remaining
flexible stays can be adapted or removed. Lumbitec
is available in LSO and TLSO;
eight Unisex sizes; standard or mid-profile height; neutral or
pendulous abdomen.
OPTEC
770.513.7380
www.opteccorp.com
The Torsion Adapter provides up
to 25 degrees internal and external rotation, allowing for more
natural movement with a prosthesis. The adapters built-in torsion
spring provides minimum fixed resistance to twisting.
High-performance polyurethane rods, available in three stiffness
levels, and set screws can be adjusted to accommodate specific
patient needs.
The Torsion Adapter has multiple internal
cushions to provide quiet operation. Use with standard four-hole
adapters, three-prong adapters, or threaded clamp adapters. Weight
limit: 250 lb. (115 kg).
Ohio Willow Wood
800.848.4930
www.owwco.com
The FullStride is the stance
control option youve been waiting for. Delivering maximum control
of varus/valgus instability and knee hyperextension, the
FullStride automatically locks and unlocks during
the gait cycle, providing natural movement with superior stability
and comprehensive knee joint control.
Easily converted into an automatic spring lever lock knee joint,
the FullStride is also interchangeable with other
joints in the Becker Stride Stance Control family.
Easy to fabricate and easy to fit, you can pair the
FullStride with any ankle joint on the market.
Its the logical next step in orthotic stance control knee
joints.
Becker Orthopedic Appliance Co.
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The Aqualimb is perfect for
transtibial amputees.
Includes the following features:
- NEW 220 lb. weight limit.
- Realistically shaped continuous cosmesis shell.
- Perfect for use in shower and light beach activity.
- Anti-slip tread pattern on sole.
- Injection-molded components assemble in minutes.
Endolite North America
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
SPS announces the immediate
availability of the new Vista adjustable collar,
manufactured by Aspen Medical. The innovative design of
Vista allows practitioners to apply the collar and
adjust to proper heightno need for sizing charts or extra
inventory.
Includes the following features and
benefits:
- Dial Height AdjustmentSimply pull and turn the
dial to select one of six Vista height
settings.
- Automatic LockReleasing the Height Adjustment
Dial automatically locks the size.
- Unparalleled Patient AccessEnormous tracheal
aperture provides functional access for airway management and other
essential procedures.
- Effective Motion RestrictionProvides safe,
effective motion restriction for all patients needing extended wear
collars.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
http://estore.spsco.com
Announcing40 Percent More
Assist
"There are cases where orthotists would like even stronger
assist options than have been available from our 742-85 series
components so, Im very pleased to announce that Tamarack now has a
fully tested design that delivers those stronger options."J.
Martin Carlson, CPO, president, Tamarack Habilitation Technologies
Inc.
The option to choose a stronger assist is available in all three
sizes. The durometers may be mixed and matched as always.
O&P professionals turn to Tamarack when
they need the most durable, highest quality thermoformable joints
made.
Becker Orthopedic Appliance Co.
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
PrefabricatedAFO
blanks made from 3/16-in. natural copolymer are now
available from Spinal Solutions. These AFOs are anatomically
correct and come lined or unlined. Available in four sizes (S, M,
LG, XL) at an unbelievably low price!
Lower-extremity central fabrication services also are now
available from Spinal Solutions.
All styles of plastic AFOs, KAFOs, and HKAFOs are available.
Best value guaranteed!
Spinal Solutions Inc.
800.922.5155
www.spinalsolution.net
Receive a FREE 30-Can Rolling Cooler with every
SPS purchase order for a Silhouette" prosthetic
foot, manufactured by Freedom Innovations.
This offer is valid on all orders placed from April 1
through June 30, 2007.
The lightweight Silhouette features smooth
contours of carbon-fiber construction producing a flexible, highly
responsive prosthetic foot. Multi-axial rotation complements the
slim forefoot design.
Providing additional fitting options, the Knee
Pyramid Adapter (P/N AC-195) provides compatibility between all
prosthetic knees that accept a 30mm pylon and the
Silhouette. The Versa Clamp accommodates a pin
locking system or provides a fix when a Silhouette
pylon has been cut too short.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
http://estore.spsco.com
Using innovative, guided ramp and micro-cell
technology, the improved Venture® Foot
provides a wide range-of-motion for virtually any activity with
increased durability and NEW 275 lb. (125kg) weight limit.
Venture Foots key features:
- Multi-axial with rotation to easily adapt to any terrain.
- Energy storing capability to reduce fatigue.
- NEW 275 lb. (125 kg) weight limit.
- Adjustable Stride Control®.
- Smooth transition from high- to low-level activities.
- 30-day trial period and three-year warranty.
VentureThe Ultimate Fusion of Power and
Agility.
College Park Industries
800.728.7950
www.college-park.com
Fillauers new and improved knee
joint has the strength to rule.
Includes the following key features:
- Robust, stainless steel construction.
- Accepts 3/16-in. or 1/4-in. uprights.
- No lubrication required.
- Enhanced release lever allows for finger-pull or bail rod.
- Contained mechanism keeps out debris.
- Durable, rugged design.
- Sleek appearance.
- Secure, automatic locking at full extension.
- Large and small sizes available.
Fillauer Companies
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
SPS and KISS Technologies LLC now
offer full distribution ofKISS Technologies
complete line of products throughout the United States.
KISS, an acronym for "Keep It Simple
Suspension," is an enhanced prosthetic suspension system that
virtually eliminates pistoning and rotation, even with volume loss
or gain. Low-profile KISS can be used with ANY
covered roll-on locking liner.
KISS technology utilizes an innovative
pulley-action system that eliminates the need for a pin. The distal
locking base can be: (a) thermoformed into a flexible inner socket,
(b) laminated directly into the socket, or (c) screwed into a
threaded CENTRI® Lamination Adaptor.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
http://estore.spsco.com
OTS, the manufacturer of the original
StepLock® knee joint, is introducing a new generation of
components for the infant and pediatric market. Smaller and lighter
than any other manufacturers knee joints, the new Close
Contour Series" allows the practitioner to contour the
proximal and distal uprights within 1/2-in. of knee center. It is
available in StepLock
and UniLock versions. A multi-concentric joint for adjustable
control of hyperextension is also available for infant and
pediatric applications.
Visit OTS at the 2007 Academy meeting to see an example of the
Matrix-Alloy Lamination System" incorporating OTS lightweight alloy
joints.
OTS Corp.
800.221.4769
www.ots-corp.com
The Axtion® DP is the newest
product to come out of Otto Bocks incredible line of feet. Its
design delivers high performance for active patients who enjoy
demanding activities. This carbon fiber foot incorporates
ultra-lightweight materials in a pylon design. The Axtion
DP features include torsional rotation and terrain
compliance for even more stability.
Otto Bock HealthCare
800.328.4058
www.ottobock.com
Clean air is a major concern for orthotic and
prosthetic facilities. The unique Kleenaire
purification system is an invaluable tool for making your facility
OSHA compliant!
The pre-filter in the patented Kleenaire system
filters dust from the air while the charcoal filter absorbs
offensive odors!
- No disruption to employees or facility.
- Uses standard power.
- Continuously recirculates air, eliminating need for costly
ductwork for outside ventilation.
- Easy, wall-mount installation.
See us at Academy booth #104.
Orthotic & Prosthetic Components Inc.
800.784.3948
This is a high-performance, heavy-duty accessory
designed for the most demanding weight training.
The Black Iron Master (BIM) provides
unparalleled security and stability for heavy weight, bench
pressing, dumbbell flys, dead lifts, squatting, etc. It is also
useful for adapting to a wide variety of other exercise equipment
available in modern fitness facilities.
A swinging gate clamps the bar between rubber saddles. It is
manually secured in place with a large wing nut. There are no quick
release or other breakaway features. Forged aluminum and steel
construction. Load rating 1,650 lb.
TRS
800.279.1865
www.oandp.com/trs
Consistent with being the industrys innovation
leader, we are the first company to incorporate silver yarn into a
sheath product.
Embedded with X-Static® silver yarn, Comforts
Silver Liner Sheath" helps eliminate skin problems
common to many liner wearers, including dermatitis, rashes, and
odorall without compromising suspension.
The Silver Liner Sheath is compatible with all
liners, as well as standard prosthetic socks.
Prosthetic practitioners are advised to consider the
Silver Liner Sheath for their patients. Call
Comfort Products for a FREE SAMPLE.
Comfort Products: the innovation leader in knitted orthotic and
prosthetic products.
Comfort Products
800.822.7500
www.comfortoandp.com
Receive a FREE "Catch the Wave"
T-shirt with every SPS purchase order* for an
ICEROSS® Stabilo or Dermo 3mm locking liner with the Wave
feature. *Offer is valid on orders placed through May 31,
2007.
The bendable section of the Wave functions like the bendable
section of a drinking straw. The circumferential wave design of the
liner fabric extends over the front of the knee providing
additional elasticity and reducing pressure over the patella and
energy to bend the knee.
Please specify your "Catch the
Wave"T-shirt size preference (LG, XL, or
XXL) when ordering.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
http://estore.spsco.com
Introducing the Women's Fisherman
shoe, which combines all the biomechanical features of
Orthofeet's depth shoes with summer comfort and chic.
Includes the following features:
- Stretchable upper construction: Shapes to the
contours of the foot, eliminating pressure on swollen feet,
bunions, and hammer toes.
- Breathable fabric lining: Padded with foam;
provides excellent protection against irritations and enhances
comfort.
- Anatomical last: Extra depth ensures a relaxed
fit and freedom for toe movement.
- Cushioning wide sole: Ergonomic-Stride design
enhances stability and assists the body to propel.
- Covered by Medicare.
Orthofeet Inc.
800.524.2845
www.orthofeet.com
Motion Control's lineup of newand exciting
products includes the following:
- Multi-Flex Wrist: New flexible wrist--also
lockable! Exciting new concept for the MC Hand and Motion Control
ETD. Offers more comfort and a more secure grip and natural feel.
(Beta models available. Call for availability.)
- MC ETD: Rugged and water resistant with quick
response. Options include four-position flexion wrist and titanium
hook fingers.
- U3: Improvements to the U3
Arm are in process. Watch this space for more!
More new products and improvements coming in 2007.
Motion Control, A Fillauer Company
888.696.2767
www.UtahArm.com
SleeveArt® laminating
sleeves are not just for prosthetic sockets anymore. Now
available in adult AFO or KAFO and pediatric AFO sizes, SleeveArt
laminating sleeves provide a new way to put a
smile on your patient's face.
Shown here is a pediatric AFO laminated inside and out with
"fishy." All SleeveArtlaminating sleeves are
fabricated from quality spandex. AFO laminating
sleeves are reasonably priced and are available in any
SleeveArt design. Visit our website for the latest selection from
more than 40 styles.
Fred's Legs Inc.
954.646.1026
www.fredslegs.com
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CONTACT US