Feature
Women with Traumatic Amputations: Prosthetic Care for a Unique Population
By Miki Fairley
Mery Daniel with her occupational therapist, Becky Buttiglieri. Photograph courtesy of Jesse Costa/WBUR. The celebratory atmosphere at the finish line of the Boston Marathon on April 15 ended abruptly as two bomb blasts rocked the scene, killing t...
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Feature
Alternatives to Soft Dressings: A Review
By Deborah Kinor, Erica Gaussa, and Erin Sutton, BME
Introduction Postoperative management of lower-limb amputation is critical to a patient's long-term outcome. 1,2,3,4 The purpose of dressings is to help meet the goals of postoperative management: healing, providing protection from outside tr...
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Feature
Post-Mastectomy Fitters Find Their Niche in the Breast Cancer Community
By Linda M. Hellow
A certified mastectomy fitter does more than just fit a prosthesis. She or he is a valuable information resource and a sympathetic ear for women in a health crisis. Carter Every year, more than 230,000 women receive a breast cancerdiagnosis.
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Feature
When Lightning Strikes Twice: Comorbid Amputation and Hemiplegia
By Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP
In the introduction to their recent systematic review of patients with both hemiplegia and lower-limb amputation, Hebert et al. identify the shared risk factors between the two events. 1 The population of individuals with lower-limb amputations is...
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Society Spotlight
Cervical Management of the Infant with Larsen Syndrome
By Kara Davis, CPO, LPO, MS
Introduction Larsen Syndrome is a congenital, hereditary condition that primarily affects the musculoskeletal system. It presents with various clinical manifestations and levels of severity. 1 Children with highly involved Larsen Syndrome m...
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Today’s Consumer
Scott McDowell: Answering the Call
By Doug Chartier
When it's quiet at the Montrose Township Fire Department (MTFD), Michigan, you can find Scott McDowell in the fire hall trying a different footing for handling the hose line or practicing a new approach for climbing into the trucks. He once needed...
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Perspective
A Call to Action
By Peter Seaman, CP, CTP
Surviving the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) lower-limb prosthetic claim audits is about documenting the patient's desire to ambulate, the medical necessity for a prosthesis, and the patient's potent...
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Shop Talk
Shaping a Transradial Forearm Prosthesis
By Justin Eitel
New technology usually involves a new production process that requires training for technicians. Fortunately, that's not the case with shaping a transradial forearm prosthesis. At Ottobock, we have been using the same process for about 40 years.
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Stepping Out
Taking a Team Approach to Treating Pedorthic Patients with Diabetes
By Howard Hillman, CPed
On a Tuesday morning some months ago, one of my long-termpatients arrived with a bag of shoes in one hand, her quad walkingcane over her other arm, and her caregiver trying to keep upwith her. I really never saw her use the cane, and I had wondere...
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Sports
CAF: Changing Lives One Athlete at a Time
By Laura Fonda Hochnadel
Athletes look on as the National Anthem was sung. Photographs by Laura Fonda Hochnadel. Perhaps it was serendipity that brought three-year-old Nandito and his fatherto the Össur Leg Amputee Running and Mobility Clinic in San Diego, California,on S...
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Got FAQs?
Billing and Collections Q&A
By Lisa Lake-Salmon
Running an O&P practice and keeping billing on trackis complex and time-consuming. When you have abilling-related question, "Got FAQs" has the answer.This month's column addresses your questions aboutwhat addition codes are appropriate with kneeor...
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Viewpoint
Exploring the Meaning of Specialized Needs
By Andrea Spridgen
As I reflected on the theme of this month'sissue, "Specialized Needs and SpecializedPopulations," I thought a lot about the term"specialized." After all, as individuals, all O&Ppatients have specialized needs. That fact is atthe heart of the profe...
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Online Exclusive
Mobility System Gets Veteran Back on His Feet
As a veteran of the Marine Corps, Kenneth Cook is not a quitter. But several years of relying on a wheelchair, and medication that sapped his energy made the Chicago man feel like giving up on having a happy, active life.
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Ability Dynamics is a medical-device company created with a passion for helping amputees through the utilization of advanced technology.
Our state-of-the-art Rush Foot™ uses Flexeon™, a specially formulated, reinforced fiber-composite material that is nearly indestructible and three times more flexible than carbon fiber. This translates into fewer repairs, maintenance, and warranty claims.
Our full rocker sole is designed for the needs of above the knee amputees. The half rocker sole is designed for the needs of below the knee amputees. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rushfoot
Ability Dynamics
855.450.7300
www.abilitydynamics.com
SPS is proud to carry the new Valor compression liner sock from Swiftwick.
Made in the U.S.A., the VALOR is the most advanced moisture-managing compression liner sock ever created for amputees. This revolutionary new solution-worn under the liner and against the skin-is made with Olefin, a Nobel Prize-winning, environmentally friendly fiber.
The VALOR's sculptured compression construction incorporates Swiftwick's patented active antimicrobial technology, providing superior moisture, bacteria, and volume fluctuations control. Ask your rep about the Swiftwick liner sock today!
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
The BTS G-Walk is the first pocket-size gait lab that provides evaluation of spatial temporal gait parameters. This cellphone-
size wireless unit provides accurate, objective, and measured gait symmetry data. Graphical analysis is instantaneously transmitted to your computer, comparing your patient's gait to the normal average.
Think of the benefits to your patients, your practice, your referral sources, and your claims justifications.
The Ortho Remedy
800.662.7993
www.orthoremedy.com/catalog
The AIRPUCK™ system is a cost-effective vacuum reservoir that can maintain negative pressure within the prosthetic socket for extended periods of time (6-10 hours). The AIRPUCK system completely seals the distal aspect of the socket, allowing users to open the valve and remove air in the socket to achieve vacuum suspension. The vacuum barb is neatly concealed in the valve housing. Blister pull fabrication makes an air-tight socket a breeze. No hoses, barbs, or ports to contend with. The AIRPUCK is a self-sealing, modular, drop-in vacuum component. Patent pending.
5280 PROSTHETICS LLC
800.460.0288
www.5280prosthetics.com
The 1C30 Trias® is an extraordinary prosthetic foot-a combination of creative design and innovative, lightweight technology. Interconnected, dual-spring elements provide dampening at heel strike and enable a physiological rollover with excellent energy return. The result is movement similar to a natural foot.
Benefits include:
- Dual carbon forefoot and heel springs for easy rollover.
- Adapts to various walking speeds and uneven terrain.
- Lightweight carbon construction in an attractive design.
- Functional foot shell in normal and slim versions, two colors, and two heel heights.
- New look as part of the TriAngular foot family.
Ottobock
800.328.4058
www.professionals.ottobockus.com
College Park Industries has increased its offerings to include a line of commonly used endoskeletal components. Utilizing knowledge from 25 years of material research and product design, these endo components are carefully engineered for structural integrity and noise abatement. Tested to the highest quality standards, the endo components perfectly complement the performance and outcomes that College Park prosthetic feet are known for.
College Park Industries
800.728.7950
www.college-park.com
Until now, all advanced vacuum systems have required a sleeve to maintain vacuum. The problem is that sleeves are bulky; they bunch behind the knee, restricting range of motion. They can also puncture, leading to a loss of vacuum.
Enter Unity™. Building on established Seal-In® technology, the Unity Sleeveless Vacuum system by Össur® is the first advanced vacuum solution to generate 15-22 in Hg of vacuum without a sleeve.
Visit www.ossur.com/unity to learn how to get certified and check out the entire line of Unity-compatible Flex-Foot feet including low-profile and microprocessor solutions.
Össur
800.233.6263
www.ossur.com
The Trulife Seattle Kinetic Light is a K2 foot with an integrated multiaxial ankle. It offers a full-length composite keel, five interchangeable bumper options, and a nonremovable split-toe foot shell. The new proximal male pyramid adaptor provides easier access to the receiver while maintaining lightweight construction, low build height, and good durability.
Available in three skin tone colors and five keel categories, the Seattle Kinetic Light foot is recommended for patients at low- to medium-activity levels (K2) with a weight limit of 366 lb. (166kg).
PEL
800.321.1264
www.pelsupply.com
The Camber Axis Hinge® is now available with modular uprights to further enhance your orthotic design options. The 3/16-in. x 3/4-in. aluminum proximal upright and 1/8-in. thick stainless steel stirrup have been specifically designed to fit the proximal and distal uprights of the Camber Axis Hinge.
The Camber Axis Hinge Modular Upright Kit is supplied fully assembled and comes complete with seven color-coded, range-of-motion keys that eliminate the need for posterior stop mechanisms. This joint permits a solid ankle design that can be easily changed to articulated motion with variable stop settings.
Becker Oregon
800.866.7522
www.beckerorthopedic.com
Features and benefits include:
- Two new versions that both mount in the forearm.
- Standard: for use with ProControl2; U3/U3+; and Utah Hybrid.
- ProWrist: for use with microprocessor-controlled TDs.
- Two times the speed and torque of previous versions.
- An in-hand version is also available-built into the MC Hand or ETD.
Contact us for more information.
Motion Control
888.696.2767
www.utaharm.com
The guide provides information about:
- Terms to know.
- Types of audits.
- Planning ahead.
- The RAC audit process.
- And more!
Ask your Endolite territory manager about getting your guide today.
Endolite
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
medi USA is proud to introduce the SLEEQ® series of spinal bracing solutions. The SLEEQ Spinal Therapy System's InvisAdjust™ technology enables a universal fit for nearly all patients while dramatically reducing the hassle and cost of unwanted inventory. SLEEQ's state-of-the-art TruGlide™ tightening makes it easy to achieve optimal compression for the most effective pain relief. The advanced eco-friendly Q-Lex™ OrthoSport Material promotes air flow to keep patients cool and dry. The low-profile ventilated AeroFlex™ support system automatically conforms to the patient's anatomy for a custom fit, providing optimum comfort and pain management or operative treatment support.
medi USA
800.633.6334
www.mediusa.com
New for 2013: The AMP CAM Attachment Kit. The game changer! Ask about our evaluation program!
The BTK AMP CAM Kit allows the highest tuning of tendon response within further progression of knee flexion.
Features and benefits include:
- Mimics natural muscle function.
- Adjustable tendon durometers.
- Adjustable extension stops.
- Adjustable dampening and rebound.
- 350 lb., K4+ activity.
- Use in any environment.
- Light and strong.
- Military approved.
Fabtech Systems
800.322.8324
www.fabtechsystems.com
Get the best of both worlds with the most advanced transtibial locking liner along with the only shuttle lock with a flexible pin and magnetic guidance. Deliver great outcomes to your low to moderately active patients with this winning combination.
Benefits include:
- Anatomy-specific geometry-thicker in bony areas and thinner where flexibility is needed.
- Silky-textured inner surface provides comfortable contact with the skin.
- Distal matrix helps reduce elongation.
- 20° flexion.
- Flexible pin and magnetic guidance for ease of entry into lock.
- Lightweight construction.
Ottobock
800.328.4058
www.professionals.ottobockus.com
Features include:
- Specifically engineered for K2 patients.
- Unique flexible keel/multiaxis design.
- Flexible, impact-reducing design.
- Roll-over shape (ROS) designed for a natural gait.
- Compliant dynamics for comfort and stability.
- Positive-lock foot shell interface for stability.
- Simple, maintenance-free design.
- Foot comes assembled in the foot shell for an easy, out-of-the-box fit.
Fillauer LLC
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
TRS Introduces an Improved Swivel Technology-Binary Swivels.
Features and benefits include:
- 50 percent stronger in tensile strength tests than conventional triple swivels.
- Higher-quality stainless steel materials.
- "Double-swaging" capability provided on both standard and heavy-duty cables.
- Incorporate fewer components with a unique, higher-strength construction.
- Designed to perfectly fit both standard and heavy-duty cables.
- Available in 9/32-in. diameter and 3/16-in. diameter ball terminal models.
TRS Inc.
800.279.1865
www.oandp.com/trs
This lightweight and flexible custom ankle gauntlet fits in almost any shoe! The Butterfly is a slim version of the traditional ankle support without the bulk. The Butterfly is an excellent choice for PTTD and ankle instability when rigid control is not required. Casting methods and tips are available on our website. The Butterfly comes in a variety of choices including lace or Velcro, leather or Plastazote lining, and a range of heights from 5-10 in. Certified pedorthists are available to answer any questions you may have about the Butterfly.
Hersco Ortho Labs
800.301.8275
www.hersco.com
College Park is known for high-quality and durable foot shells. Now your highest impact patients can have increased durability, and everyone can enjoy walking barefoot safely. The College Park Shelltread™ is made from abrasion-resistant styrene-butadiene rubber with a crosshatch design for enhanced nonskid capability. Easy to install and affordable, they are available in neutral and black for every size and type of College Park foot shell.
College Park Industries
800.728.7950
www.college-park.com
PreStride™ demonstrates stance control's capability and FullStride™ delivers it to the patient.
The formula for success in the application of a stance control orthosis (SCO) is tied to a thorough patient assessment. The PreStride stance control assessment orthosis allows the orthotist to evaluate the patient in various component configurations to determine the optimal setup before fabricating the definitive FullStride SCO.
Becker Orthopedic
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The avalon foot provides 12° of controlled ankle motion, allowing the user to safely negotiate stairs, ramps, and environmental obstacles with increased confidence and security.
Benefits include:
- Dorsiflexes from midstance to toe off for a smooth rollover.
- Remains dorsiflexed through swing phase for improved toe clearance, to minimize the risk of falls.
- Provides a more natural gait; reduces the need to compensate by hip hiking, circumduction, or lifting the knee to clear the toe during swing phase.
- Biomimetic ankle motion encourages equal loading during ambulation, which leads to less stress and thereby preserves the sound side.
Endolite
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
KiddieROCKER™ is the newest addition to Allard's pediatric
dynamic response AFOs. Developed for your pediatric population
with more involved pathology, the extra rigidity offers enhanced
balance and posture control, especially for weak quadriceps.
Features and benefits include:
- Carbon composite with anterior shell, lateral strut, and engineered footplate with open calcaneal design.
- Allows integration of your custom foot orthotic to help control ground-up forces.
- Lateral strut can serve as a base for a T-strap to control excessive ankle eversion.
- Anterior shell assists in management of proximal deficits by helping manage either knee hyperextension or crouch gait.
Allard USA
888.678.6548
www.allardusa.com
Our accommodative foot orthotics are specially designed for patients with foot deformities. We offer a variety of materials for foot conditions such as neuropathy, Charcot foot, edema, or amputation; or conditions resulting from health issues like obesity, diabetes, sports injuries, or heart conditions. Custom-made foot orthotics provide support and relief wherever necessary. Apis provides you with a free 3D camera to eliminate impressions or casting-now it's just a push of a button. Fulfill all of your pedorthic needs under one roof. Call our friendly customer service representatives for more information or free samples.
Apis Footwear Co.
888.937.2747
www.bignwideshoes.com
Evolution's new Unity Plate works with Össur's
Unity system and our locking seals.
Evolution Industries, Inc.
888.839.6213
www.evoii.com
medi is proud to announce a new addition to the innovative Panthera family of feet: the Panthera CF II-adaptable to the individual needs of the K3 or K4 amputee.
Features and benefits include:
- Finely adjustable heel and forefoot resistance via trimmable elastomer inserts.
- medi Torsion Flex Control provides multiaxial compliance via integrated elastomer layers.
- Early plantar contact for increased stability.
- Vertical shock absorption provides greater comfort.
- Fluid rollover and dynamic toe-off due to the continuous carbon spring.
medi USA
800.633.6334
www.mediusa.com
Orthomerica's Fuzion™ AFO was developed to allow greater fit, function, and freedom for challenging foot deformations when compared to traditional AFOs. The circumferential wrap of the Fuzion firmly and comfortably holds the foot in a more structured biomechanical position instead of trying to seat the foot with two or three straps. The Fuzion's design and materials ensure greater patient compliance for a variety of challenging clinical indications. Available for adult and pediatric patients.
For more information about the Fuzion, call us or visit our newly redesigned website.
Orthomerica
877.737.8444
www.orthomerica.com
Coyote Composite is an ideal replacement for braided carbon fiber in prosthetic and orthotic laminations. It's made from basalt (volcanic rock), which is tougher and more flexible than carbon for more comfort in prosthetic sockets and orthotic bracing. The inert nature of this material has less inhalant risk and causes less irritation to the skin than alternatives.
Features include:
- Extreme durability.
- Tougher than fiberglass.
- Safer, with less itch than carbon.
- Easy to use for rigid or flexible layups.
- Can be used with traditional or flexible resins.
Coyote Design
800.819.5980
www.coyotedesign.com
Accepting Applications Now!
Begin your P&O career at NUPOC! Learn from leaders in the P&O profession! The NUPOC MPO is a 21-month graduate curriculum that prepares you to enter an accredited residency, sit for certification examinations, and become a P&O practitioner.
The online portion of the program includes live and streamed lectures, videoconference discussions, group projects, and case-study sessions that help you learn, apply, and review knowledge.
The on-campus practicum offers supervised opportunities to practice technical and clinical skills with patient models who have neuromusculoskeletal impairments.
Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center
Feinberg School of Medicine
NUPOC
312.503.5700
www.nupoc.northwestern.edu
Every client is different. For the exceptionally active client in need of transtibial suspension, Syncor's Durasleeve HD is constructed of the highest-quality, heavy-duty neoprene for exceptional durability. Limited dexterity creates its own challenges, and the Durasleeve EZ meets them with the security of a virtually failsafe suction system, yet it is easy to don and doff.
All Durasleeve designs are constructed with uncompromising air-tight integrity. Outside, seams are reinforced with color-matched blind stitching. Inside, our exclusive, patented reinforcement panel minimizes wear. Custom orders are always welcome through your Syncor supplier.
Syncor Ltd.
920.435.1199
Tired of throwing away too many nylon seconds? Try our MasterCraft hosiery! Essential to your O&P applications, from laminations to pulling plastic, these nylons will help make fabrication easier. Made with first-quality nylon, our open-toe nylons reduce your throwaways! Available in a 1-lb. box of approximately 80 nylons, or a 5-lb. box of approximately 400 nylons.
Call for e-mail for more information.
Comfort Products
800.822.7500
www.comfortoandp.com
A program designed to help optimize your materials costs.
With the challenges facing O&P care providers, it's becoming more difficult to provide high-quality patient care while managing a business. The SPS Rewards Program ensures you are getting the best value for the products you need to run your business. To learn more and register for the SPS Rewards Program, contact your SPS sales manager.
SPS
800.767.7776
www.spsco.com
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