Feature
3D Printing: Opportunity for Technicians?
By Judith Philipps Otto
3D printing, or additive manufacturing, has been receiving significant mediacoverage, but the jury is still out on the effect of this technology on the O&Pindustry. The verdict may depend on who is on that jury, since practitionersand technicians...
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Feature
Deconstructing the Fab Lab
By Miki Fairley
What makes an in-house fabrication laboratory or a central fabrication facility shine—making it truly a "fab lab"? One way to measure an ideal lab or central fabrication facility is in terms of performance and results, such as producing consistent...
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Feature
How to Build a Technician
By Maria St. Louis-Sanchez
THERE'S NO QUESTION THAT TECHNICIANS ARE INVALUABLE TO THE O&P PROFESSION. "If you can't make a product, you can't sell anything," says TonyWickman, CTPO, CEO of Freedom Fabrication, Havana, Florida."As much as we appear to be very clinical, the f...
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Feature
Clarifying Medicare Participation and Assignment Rules, Part Two
By Peter W. Thomas, JD, and Christina Hughes, JD, MPH
This article is the second of a two-article series that examines ways thatmay help O&P practitioners limit Medicare audit risk and denials. As noted in part one of this series , published in the June issue of The O&P EDGE, there are few encouragin...
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Better Business
Getting the Most from Your Practice by Looking Within: A Four-Part Series
By Christine M. Duprey
Part Three: Building Referral Sources The O&P EDGE continues its four-part series that focuses on key elements of your business and provides some tips for performing analyses and improving your processes. Building a successful O&P practice requir...
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Shop Talk
Laminating with E-R Resin
By Ronnie N. Graves, BOCPO, LPO, CO, CTP
Learning to laminate with a resin that you haven't used beforecan be intimidating and confusing because there are a lot ofunknowns about what you can and can't do with various typesof resins. I'll explain some of the variations in the properties o...
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Innovations
Surfing Buddies Collaborate on Prosthetic Socket System: Design Aims for Adjustability and Shortened Delivery Time
By Betta Ferrendelli
Technological advances and improvements in prosthetic socketshave progressed considerably in the last two decades. However,when it comes to designing and producing a comfortable devicethat can be made quickly and allow greater user adjustability,s...
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Perspective
Deepening Professional Understanding through Volunteerism
By Nina Bondre
Four of my classmates from Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center (NUPOC), Chicago, Illinois, and I recently volunteered at Advanced O&P Solutions, Hickory Hills, Illinois, with the Range of Motion Project (ROMP). We sorted, cataloge...
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Education Outlook
Program Profile Series: Baker College of Flint, Joliet Junior College, and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
The O&P EDGE continues its series of National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)-accredited O&P educational programs. This month we feature three programs offering associate degrees in applied science in O&P technology. Baker...
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Sports
Motocross Champions Crowned at Ninth Annual Extremity Games; First Swing Learn to Golf Held in Memphis
Motocross Champions Crowned at Ninth Annual Extremity Games Gomez catches some air. Photographs courtesy of Curtis Connor. Ryan Beesley came in third in the Upper Extremity division.
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Viewpoint
Do You Have What It Takes to Be an O&P Tech?
By Andrea Spridgen
As countless articles, presentations, andletters have stressed, O&P professionals aremembers of the healthcare team, not simplyproviders of a product. However, many times,providing that care also involves providing adevice and, as Tony Wickman, CT...
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Online Exclusive
Endolite élan Foot Coding Verification
Following the recommendation of the PDAC, Endolite has been working with CMS to establish a new code that adequately describes the function of the élan microprocessor foot system. In a preliminary decision, CMS has verified that the élan meets the...
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Online Exclusive
Can Green and Lean Help Your O&P Facility?
By Miki Fairley
"Deconstructing the Fab Lab" in the July issue of The O&P EDGE examines ways to improve fabrication performance, consistency, cost, and efficiency through facility layout and lean principles. In this EDGE Direct exclusive, we'll share additional strategies of green operation and lean principles that can help your fabrication facility become a truly "fab lab."
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From the occasional jogger to the avid
marathon runner, the bladeXT assists
users in meeting their fitness routine
requirements. This cross-trainer-style
foot allows users to quickly transition
from cardio to weight training without
sacrificing safety, stability, or performance.
With an overmolded sole cover for
improved traction and durability on all
terrain, along with a heel wedge that can
be added to stiffen heel action, this foot
allows for the versatility that cross-training
requires.
Endolite
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
Very similar to the Air-Lock in that it stays airtight, the Easy-
Off Lock helps to create suction in the socket by allowing elevated
vacuum. The one-of-a-kind lever design makes doffing the
socket easy, especially for amputees with hand-strength issues or
arthritis, or those who have trouble reaching the release button.
Features and benefits include:
- Dual suspension, suction pin lock system.
- Can be used with elevated vacuum mechanisms.
- Easy donning and removal with lever release.
- Great for amputees with hand-strength issues.
- Single-stage lamination.
- Offset alignment capability.
- Water-resistant.
- Eliminates the possibility of lock jams.
Coyote Design
800.819.5980
www.coyotedesign.com
The Compact Double Action Ankle Joint
(Model 725) is supplied fully assembled
and is designed specifically for use with
thermoplastics. The precontoured stainless steel
upright and stirrup reduces fabrication
time, while the low-profile and lightweight
design enhances the clinical application.
The Compact Double Action Ankle Joint,
intended for both small-adult and pediatric
patients, is designed to provide optimal
control in the sagittal plane and increase
mediolateral stability.
Becker Orthopedic
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The slim and robust 7E9 Monocentric Hydraulic Hip Joint is currently the only hip design approved for a body weight of up to 275 lb. The 7E9 is also the only hydraulic swing and stance hip approved for use with mechanical knees (3R60 and 3R106) as well as the C-Leg and Genium microprocessor legs. The flexibility of these component combinations ensures high functionality, safety, and improved mobility for those with hip disarticulation or hemipelvectomy amputations.
Ottobock
800.328.4058
www.professionals.ottobockus.com
Universal sizing, optimal comfort, and conformance to
individual shapes are all possible with the SLEEQ® series of
spinal bracing solutions. Designed to be tailor-fit by a trained
professional, the SLEEQ line of products provides comfort and
support for pain management and operative treatment.
Features and benefits include:
- InvisAdjust™ technology provides a near-universal fit in one model, freeing up inventory dollars.
- The TruGlide™ tightening system's easy adjustment achieves optimal compression for effective pain relief.
- Q-Lex™ OrthoSport materials promote air flow that keeps patients cool and dry.
- AeroFlex™ support system for low-profile, ventilated comfort that automatically conforms to the patient.
medi USA
800.633.6334
www.mediusa.com
The Freedom DynAdapt™ foot is a
slim-profile, carbon-fiber foot system
with a slender, anatomic design for easy
fit and finish. Its multiaxial function
provides maximum comfort and the
uninterrupted strands of carbon fiber
in the full-length heel provide patients
with effortless rollover and a more
natural gait. The new EnduraCore™
Technology composite laminate delivers up to three times
the fatigue life of a standard laminate in a design that also
returns more energy. The result is a highly durable product that
preserves users' energy so they can do more with confidence.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
Compressogrip® by Knit-Rite-the original
tubular compression prosthetic shrinker-has
been widely accepted for more than 30 years!
- New extra-large transfemoral size accommodates up to a 40-in. (102cm) circumference!
- Compressogrip shrinkers offer lower cost and easier donning, and they are easier to stock than traditional shrinkers.
- Tapered B/K shrinker option has an additional width at the top to accommodate larger thigh girth and reduce rolling and bunching.
- Available in white, beige, or grey X-STATIC® silver fiber.
- Every latex-free Compressogrip roll is quality tested for consistent compression.
Knit-Rite Inc.
800.821.3094
www.knitrite.com
Join the celebration at
facebook.com/ABCOPP
and visit the anniversary
page on our website.
American Board for Certification/ABC
703.836.7114
www.abcop.org
While the ORION already offers users the stability and confidence to perform daily
routines, we have added new features to
benefit users even more. From fixed angle
flexion lock to an enhanced yield rate, the
ORION has been readapted to not only fit
the needs of everyday life, but also to give
the user opportunities to participate in more
activities. Our new ORION software allows
the knee to be programmed and customized
via computer to each individual's walking
patterns.
Endolite
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
Hersco Ortho Labs is now a Richie Brace® partner lab! Podiatrists often insist on dispensing the original Richie for cases of PTTD, ankle instability, arthritis, and more. For faster turnaround on your Richie orders, send casts directly to Hersco.
Download prescription forms at www.hersco.com. Click on our Education tab for great tips and casting methods.
Certified pedorthists are available to answer any prescription questions you may have.
Hersco Ortho Labs
800.301.8275
www.hersco.com
Available on all Custom Origin Liners
for greater freedom of movement.
Evolution Industries Inc.
888.839.6213
www.evoii.com
Grace Prosthetic Fabrication offers our Articulating GRACE Gauntlet, which allows for natural motion while offering firm control and support. The standard GRACE Gauntlet offers hook-and-loop closure and polypro reinforcement. The GRACE Gauntlet with Toe Filler accommodates any amputation length while offering full support and control (a shoe is required). These are custom made in the United States by an elite artisan with more than 15 years of experience. Every Grace AFO Gauntlet is crafted with quality materials and held to the highest standards.
Contact us today for your order.
Grace Prosthetic Fabrication
800.940.5347
www.gpfinc.com
The Stride4™ Shadow is a lightweight KAFO that combines structural strength and cosmetic appeal with the new Stride4 mechanical stance control orthotic knee joint from Becker Orthopedic.
Stride4 features include:
- Three operation modes: stance control, free motion, and locked with stance phase knee flexion.
- Four-bar linkage mechanism to afford stability and mimic anatomical knee motion.
- Integrated extension assist.
The inherent rigidity of the Stride4 Shadow ensures that optimal joint alignment and function is maintained throughout the gait cycle.
Becker Oregon
800.866.7522
www.beckerorthopedic.com
New for 2014! Our latest K2 foot provides a good range of motion and high weight limit in a lightweight and affordable product. This service-free design also has a full-length toe lever for excellent stability and performance.
College Park Industries
800.728.7950
www.college-park.com
This dynamic corrective system joint ensures fast, efficient, and effective treatment of contractures resulting from neurological conditions. It is simple and uncomplicated with just two joint sizes to accommodate any extremity joint, and no complicated order forms to complete.
You determine and control the three simple adjustments:
- Flexion/extension. Just flip the joint housing internal spring based on the anatomical location.
- Range of motion. Limit at 12 degree increments (small) or 14 degree increments (regular).
- Force control. Up to 3.4 Nm/30 in.-lb. (small) or 10.2 Nm/90 in.-lb. (regular).
Allard USA
888.678.6548
www.allardusa.com
Orthomerica® introduces the new modular California® Catalina™ Custom Fit spinal orthosis—the latest addition to the California soft spinal system family of spinal orthoses.
Benefits include:
- Mechanical advantage two-pull string closure system with ergonomically designed pull tabs.
- No-cut cord design allows for adjustments throughout term of wear.
- Easy circumferential adjustment for waists up to 50 in. (standard) or 66 in. (extended).
- Custom, individualized design allows for a personalized fit by the orthotist.
- Heat-moldable and removable posterior panel.
PDAC-approved HCPCS codes L-0637/L-0650; L-0631/L-0648; and L-0627/L-0642.
Orthomerica
800.446.6770
www.orthomerica.com
The new medi 4Seal TFS Liner combines a revolutionary sealing technology with a unique self-gliding surface, providing extraordinary suspension, comfort, and ease of use for those with transfemoral amputations.
Features and benefits include:
- Integrated seals for easy inversion and a highly secure fit.
- Easy Glide PLUS outer surface-no donning aids or sprays required.
- Excellent tissue control due to a highly effective, full-length matrix.
- Optimal radial stretch for greater comfort.
- Simple to use gel-grip spacer socks for easy application (available separately).
medi USA
800.633.6334
www.mediusa.com
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
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
PEL now offers a low-profile, functional orthotic solution for the management of genu recurvatum combined with foot drop, or foot drop accompanied by chronic knee instability. The Allard COMBO™ is a lightweight KO attachment for the ToeOFF® or BlueRocker™ that creates an innovative orthotic solution for managing these conditions.
Features and benefits include:
- Super lightweight—less than 2 lb.
- Quick-release buckles and straps—easy to don and doff.
- Easily adjusts to patient's optimum height.
- Eliminates the need for a second orthosis prescription.
- Therapy-, reimbursement-, and patient-friendly!
PEL
800.321.1264
www.pelsupply.com
The Vista® MultiPost Collar is the latest addition to Aspen's award-winning Vista cervical collars. This new, fully adjustable collar incorporates the Vista Collar front panel with new pivoting occipital panels in the back to add an extra level of support for greater motion restriction while effectively dispersing pressure. The Vista MultiPost is one-size adjustable, which minimizes inventory requirements and virtually eliminates waste associated with collar sizing errors. It also features Aspen's proven cotton-lined pads designed to enhance skin care by reducing patient contact points. Code L-0180 approved. Call customer service for more information.
Aspen Medical Products
800.295.2776
www.aspenmp.com
In Pursuit of the World's Safest Knee.
Allux is the world's first polycentric microprocessor stance-and-swing-phase controlled knee. Nabtesco, a leader in microprocessor knee technology, has once again driven innovation forward with a new design. The unique concept boasts a dual safety system based on inherent polycentric stability factors and microprocessor control. The polycentric design's greater toe clearance means less risk of stumbling; however, in case of a stumble, the microprocessor immediately increases the hydraulic resistance to prevent the knee from sudden buckling.
The Allux knee heightens safety and security while providing exceptional functionality to the user.
Nabtesco Proteor-USA
855.517.4414
www.nabtesco-proteor-usa.com
Dr. Comfort announces a partnership with ING Source to provide the OrthoSleeve line of ortho-compression wear. Designed to offer comprehensive treatment and pain relief for patients with plantar fasciitis, the FS6 Compression Foot Sleeve has six zones of graduated compression in a thin, breathable, moisture-wicking sleeve. Those same features are also incorporated into the design of the CS6 Calf Sleeve, which uses innovative orthopedic support to improve circulation, ease sore leg muscles, and aid muscle recovery.
Dr. Comfort
800.992.3580
www.drcomfort.com
Since its inception, Anatomical Concepts Inc. has served as a designer and manufacturer of industry-leading medical devices. We have the clinical and technical experience to customize orthoses to fit your patient's specific needs to deliver more effective results and improve compliance.
The custom-made V-VAS™ Unloader KO and V-VAS™ adult and pediatric KAFO systems are the most common devices we manufacture. We're also able to custom fabricate, modify, or refurbish our other orthoses for upper and lower limbs, utilizing many of our prefabricated ankle/foot, knee, and elbow brace designs to affordably produce any number of functional hybrid combinations.
Anatomical Concepts Inc.
800.837.3888
www.anatomicalconceptsinc.com
Find out why CPs and amputees are raving
about this new, low-profile prosthetic foot. Our
Flexeon™ fiberglass composite material is two
times more flexible than carbon
fiber and nearly indestructible.
This translates into zero dead
spots, zero repairs, reduced
socket issues, and higher patient satisfaction-all of which are
good for your business and your patient.
Our unique design ensures the most stable, natural K3
mobility and lifestyle experience for your patients. Try it and
see for yourself.
Call today and receive a special introductory discount on your first two orders.
Ability Dynamics
855.450.7300
www.abilitydynamics.com
Fillauer's new Trautman Expansion Arbors prevent the sanding cone from flying away. When the Expansion Arbor spins, it expands and applies pressure to the inside of the sanding sleeve—holding the sleeve on the arbor.
Features and benefits include:
- A smoother grinding surface for straighter lines and a higher-quality finish.
- Eliminates grinding chatter from hard grinding surfaces.
- Available in three sizes and as a kit of three.
- Available in 1/2-13, 5/8-11, and M16 threads to fit most O&P machinery.
Fillauer LLC
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
Why make the transition to BOC? Award-winning customer service, industry expertise, and a user-friendly website are just a few of the benefits of choosing BOC. With BOC as your credentialing partner, you get accreditation for your O&P facility at a discounted rate and individual certification, all under one roof. Plus, it's easy (and free)! Make the transition to BOC for accreditation or certification for no up-front cost. Contact us today at . We're with you every step of the way!
Board of Certification/Accreditation
877.776.2200
www.bocusa.org
A complete system for cost-effective
automation in facilities of all sizes.
Scan, modify, carve, and
thermoform. The cordless S1
Scanner allows fast, accurate 3D
shape capture with unmatched
ease of use and at low cost. Newly
released ProvelCAD modification
software is easy to use and
template based. The C7 Carver
is not only fast and precise, its self-contained dust collection
system is extremely quiet. The T7 Thermoformer, now with
IR sensing, consistently produces high-quality thermoplastic
sockets from industry-standard preforms. Compatible with
AOP, OBJ, and STL files.
Provel Inc.
509.857.2009
www.provel.us
Successful O&P practices want to achieve a perfect fit for more patients in less time. They would rather focus on patient care than comb through dizzying online lists of product inclusions, order codes, and complicated sizing charts. Limbguard™ limb protectors come in four sizes, fit both left and right, and can be easily cut and customized to your patient on-site. Why burden your practice with complicated ordering, excessive inventory, or delayed fittings? Transtibial protection: in stock, no fuss, less cost.
Limbguard
800.528.9339
www.limbguard.info
Now Accepting Applications!
NUPOC's 21-month MPO program allows you to complete your first two quarters (6 months) and final quarter (3 months) online, plus four quarters (12 months) of supervised practicum on campus, where you practice P&O skills with individuals who live with neuromusculoskeletal impairments.
NUPOC graduates are eligible for NCOPE residencies and P&O certification examinations. The NUPOC MPO prepares students to become proficient, compassionate clinicians; assess, prescribe, and deliver comprehensive P&O services; apply research to clinical practice; and contribute meaningfully to the P&O profession. Apply today!
Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center
Feinberg School of Medicine
NUPOC
312.503.5700
www.nupoc.northwestern.edu
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