Feature
Creating the Optimal Patient Experience
By Deanna Fish, MS, CPO
What Is the Patient Experience? The patient experience is widely discussed, but rarely defined. Most patient-satisfaction surveys report on a patient's experience relative to a single encounter rather than the collective experiences of all interac...
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Feature
Amputee Patient Comfort and Compliance
Exclusive Survey Results
The O&P EDGE and the Amputee Coalition are proud to present the results of our inaugural amputee patient survey. The purpose of this survey was to gain a better understanding of amputee behavior related to prosthesis wear. Specifically, we asked p...
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Feature
Elective Amputation: Making the Decision
By Judith Philipps Otto
For prosthetists, therapists, and other members of the rehab team, limb loss presents a threshold to new possibilities-a first step toward functional mobility. For the individual struggling with the decision to sacrifice a body part, amputation is...
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Extraordinary O&P
Sean Reyngoudt Takes to the Skies
By Laura Hochnadel
Sean Reyngoudt exhibits a certain grace reserved for gymnasts and acrobats as he dances on water and flies through the air, exceeding speeds of 30 miles per hour and reaching heights of 150 feet. Rather than being self-propelled, however, his feet...
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Perspective
Making a Case for Amputee Case Managers
By Andrea Puckett
Recently, someone asked me, "Exactly what is your role as an amputee case manager?" I thought for a moment and said, "I help amputees and their families find a new normal." When new amputees are thrown into a world that is new to them, which is so...
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Shop Talk
How to Thermoform a Plastic Lining
By Jason Kimmel
Elevated vacuum sockets are a fabulous innovation. The limb's weight bearing force is evenly distributed throughout the total surface of the socket, rather than spot specific. For the patient, that translates to a better and more comfortably fitti...
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Sports
UCO Endeavor Games; No Barriers Summit
UCO Endeavor Games Unite Novice and Elite Athletes The 12th annual University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, (UCO) Endeavor Games, held June 9-12, gave nearly 300 athletes the chance to compete in 11 sport competitions including archery, shooting, r...
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Face to Face
Face to Face: Wendy A. Carter, LPN, CFom
Wendy A. Carter says a twist of fate led her to a career in O&P. An obstetrics/gynecology nurse by trade, she spent the summer of 2005 doing missionary healthcare in Nicaragua and volunteering with the American Red Cross, assisting with hurricane...
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Got FAQs?
Got FAQs?
By Lisa Lake-Salmon
Billing for an O&P practice seems to get more complicated by the day. Count on "Got FAQs?" to help answer your toughest questions. This month's column addresses your questions about billing codes for spinal electrical osteogenesis stimulators, Med...
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Viewpoint
“Knowledge Speaks…Wisdom Listens”
By Karen Henry
When it comes to patient compliance, O&P clinicians know there is a big difference between hearing and listening. Many healthcare providers can relate to the experience of talking with a patient who seems to be following instructions and guidance,...
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Online Exclusive
Endolite Expands Training Program
EDGE Direct In support of the launch of the ORION, our newest microprocessor knee, Endolite is pleased to announce an expanded training program that includes certification courses for the ORION. Our expanded training program began April 8, with...
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The FullStride™ Shadow from Becker Oregon is a lightweight KAFO that combines structural strength and cosmetic appeal with the FullStride mechanical stance-control orthotic knee joint. The inherent rigidity of the FullStride Shadow ensures that optimal joint alignment and function are maintained throughout the gait cycle. Constructed of lightweight and rigid composite materials, the FullStride Shadow's sleek and open design offers patients an unparalleled blend of form and function.
Becker Oregon
800.866.7522
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The Helix3D Hip Joint takes advantage of a groundbreaking design to create a more natural, three-dimensional hip movement. Its polycentric design improves toe clearance and provides threedimensional movement that mimics the movement of the human pelvis, and the hydraulic provides greater stability every step of the way. The results for your patient are dramatic-greater stability and less compensatory movements to make every step more stable and confident. Contact Otto Bock HealthCare to find out more about how you can get your patients into Helix3D today.
Otto Bock HealthCare
800.328.4058
www.ottobockus.com
New: The Adjustable Dynamic Response™ (ADR™) KAFO-No Cable Release Needed.
When an AFO is not enough to treat severe crouch and gross LE weakness, the Ultraflex ADR™ KAFO provides a good alternative.
Features and benefits include:
- Safe stance control without locking the knee, ADR 0-30° flexion.
- Sit-to-standing ratchet support from 120° flexion to full extension.
- Low profile, sit-to-stand slide lock/safety release is easy to engage and disengage.
- ADR™ ankle, 0-40° dorsiflexion, 0-40° plantarflexion resistance or dampening effects.
- Adult and pediatric versions.
Ultraflex Systems
800.220.6670
www.ultraflexsystems.com
Flexible fabric that can be used with Velcro®-type materials is a key feature of the Alpha® Spirit Liner and differentiates it from other transtibial Alpha Liners. The ability to attach to Velcro-type material opens up exciting possibilities in terms of suspension when combined with Alpha Spirit Suction Seals. The fabric's extra flexibility makes the liner very easy to don and doff-a key benefit for patients with limited hand dexterity.
The Alpha Spirit Liner, featuring classic gel, comes with a one-year warranty and a ten-day trial period. Register liners online at www.willowwoodco.com
WillowWood
800.848.4930
www.willowwoodco.com
The Trautman Dual Bladder Vacuum Station allows for a variety of options in vacuum forming. The dual-bladder configuration enables better mold preservation and improved surface quality of the molded product. The station can be used as either a dual-bladder or single-bladder vacuum station.
- Durable, powder-coated aluminum frame.
- High-temperature, non-stick, clear silicone bladder.
- Dual bladder for use with Comfil® TFC and pre-preg materials.
- Quick-change outer bladder saves time and money.
- Exterior dimension: 24 in. x 24 in.
- Requires vacuum source.
Fillauer LLC
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
Take a Step in the Right Direction!
A new feature allows patients to temporarily deactivate the locking function-great for biking or physical therapy! The integrated, low-profile joint provides the best in electronic stance control and helps patients achieve a more active lifestyle. Simple onboard programming helps the E-MAG Active calibrate itself to the user's unique gait pattern, adding a whole new dimension of functionality for people who previously have had limited bracing options, such as a locked knee or manual device. Help your patients get back into the swing of things with the E-MAG Active!
Otto Bock HealthCare
800.328.4058
www.ottobockus.com
Intended for patients up to 320 lb., or those individuals with a severe biomechanical deficit, the 1017-A38 is the latest addition to our comprehensive range of orthotic knee joints. Equipped with 3/8" x 3/4" (9.5mm x 19.1mm) aluminum uprights, the modular design of the 1017-A38 may be used in either a unilateral or double-upright configuration. The 1017-A38 can be fabricated into a variety of orthotic designs, including conventional metal and leather, thermoplastics, and composites.
Becker Orthopedic
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The Hosmer Weight Activated Locking Knee (W.A.L.K.) and Single Axis Friction Knee (S.A.F.K.) are compact, durable options for patients requiring extra stability and performance. Independent friction and mechanical stance-control adjustments make it easy to fine tune the knee to individual needs. Adding the Sfx provides adjustable stance flexion and greater stability at heel strike, increases balance during initial weight loading, and adds a moderate amount of shock absorption for a smoother gait. Weighing 241 grams with a build height of 3.34 inches, the Sfx comes in three adjustable load levels.
PEL Supply Company
800.321.1264
www.pelsupply.com
Designed with independent, multiaxial (iMX) technology, the WalkTek™ prosthetic foot represents a breakthrough in performance for K2-level amputees.
Featuring fully independent suspension with separate heel and toe compliance, WalkTek provides excellent stability and support. Users will experience increased confidence. Prosthetists will appreciate the 300-lb. weight rating and easy-to-access ankle-height adjustments.
Visit www.freedom-innovations.com/walktek to see the product in motion.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
A combination for every situation.
Proven in our own central fabrication lab, Evolution's premium-quality components are perpetually evolving and developing with your patients' needs and comfort in mind.
Evolution Industries Inc.
888.839.6213
www.evoii.com
Available on Truper®, Venture®, Tribute®, and Onyx® feet, this adjustable system from College Park allows quick and easy gait adjustments without disassembly. A practitioner can easily fine tune the feel of the foot, increasing comfort and function. A simple turn of a 4mm hex key can change the amount of preload in the system resulting in a perceptible change in motion resistance. A user can feel as little as a ¼-turn of the Stride Control™. Align perfectly the first time, every time, with College Park's Stride Control feature.
College Park Industries
800.728.7950
www.college-park.com
New: Enhanced adult Adjustable Dynamic Response™ (ADR™), UltraSafeStep® for managing gait dysfunction.
New enhanced joint design benefits include:
- 100% more dynamic
- 40% lighter
- 30% smaller
- 5% stronger
- Improved corrosion resistance.
- Improved adjustable dynamic load response and magnitude.
- Covered by existing L-codes
Adults: Post-stroke, post-polio syndrome, and ankle instability. Adolescents: Cerebral palsy, spinal bifida, TBI, challenging neurological and developmental conditions, post-stroke, indiopathic toe-walking syndrome, and spinal-cord pathology
Ultraflex Systems
800.220.6670
www.ultraflexsystems.com
SPS announces the availability of WalkAide's new kid-friendly pediatric cuff. The customizable strap has optional ribbons to appeal to young wearers while the pediatric programming options and adaptive programming facilitate growth as the child's physical needs and abilities change.
The washable liner promotes patient comfort and a mother's need to ensure proper hygiene for her child. The self-contained WalkAide system operates on a single battery for up to 30 days without nightly recharging-ideal for playful kids and parents on the go! The pediatric cuff fits leg circumferences from 7½-10 inches.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
Dycor's toe-filler (L-5000) and ankle-height (L-5010)partial foot prostheses incorporate custom silicone liners (L-5681) and advanced composite sockets (L-5629). A flexible keel can be extended from the socket into the forefoot (L-5972). Low-definition protective covers (L-5962) are available in tan or brown and made from urethane or silicone.
Cast the residuum inside the appropriately fitting shoe and on top of the corrective device, if used. Indicate trim lines, ML/AP vertical reference, a tracing of the contralateral foot, and the shoe in which the cast was taken. Prior to molding, call Dycor technical services.
Dycor
800.794.6099
www.dycormfg.com
VertaMax is designed and manufactured using dense elastic material that provides significantly more compression than those conventionally used for lumbar supports. VertaMax provides unparalleled anterior-posterior support, abdominal support, perfect anatomic fit, ease of donning and doffing, and soft comfort. Abdominal compression can be increased or decreased with the fastening tabs. The adjustable anterior and posterior plastic panels contour and conform to patients of all shapes, sizes, and lordotic curves with no heat molding necessary. Your patients will appreciate the streamline design that is virtually undectable under clothing. Visit OPTEC at AOPA in Las Vegas, booth 311!
OPTEC
888.982.8181
www.optecusa.com
Prosthetic Design's C-Leg® Cosmesis is designed to provide a natural appearance and means of protection for the C-Leg microprocessor knee. The internal shape of the Cosmesis is matched to the C-Leg, which provides ease of installation and removal for needed adjustments while maintaining a superior fit to the knee frame. The Cosmesis is made of durable urethane foam and can be cut to length and easily shaped to fit various limb sizes.
Prosthetic Design Inc.
800.459.0177
www.prostheticdesign.com
TRS, in cooperation with EXOS Manufacturing and Boa® Technologies, introduces a customizable, thermoformable prosthosis for persons with partial hands, weak, injured, or flail hands, or wrist disarticulation. The prosthosis is constructed of low-temperature (150 degree F) EXOS laminate for easy molding directly to the patient's forearm. The Boa cable-closure technology provides easy donning and accurate tensioning. The stainless, disconnect-bracket system has multiple mounting location options and accepts a variety of terminal devices. Fits
most forearms and has a wide range of adjustability.
Affordable, easily customized, and very functional!
TRS Prosthetics
800.279.1865
www.oandp.com/trs
"Skill is the unified force of experience, intellect and passion...."
—John Ruskin
You have the intellect and the passion! Build your experience and skill at a NUPOC Certificate Course in Prosthetics/Orthotics. Enter the field or extend your title. Very few Certificate Courses remain before the 2013 master of science mandate. We welcome all highly motivated individuals who want to be prosthetists and orthotists. For more information, e-mail
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Northwestern University Prosthetics/Orthotics Center
NUPOC
312.503.5700
www.nupoc.northwestern.edu
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