Foot-Ankle Biomechanics & Pedorthic Program
March 3, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Moderator: Seamus Kennedy, BEng(Mech), CPed, FAAOP(A)
Developed and moderated by pedorthic expert Seamus Kennedy, BEng(Mech), CPed, FAAOP(A), the day will be a fun and exciting exploration into different aspects of foot and ankle biomechanics. The array of speakers bringing different perspectives to the program include a podiatrist, a PhD, and several practicing orthotists, and academic educators.
“I look to include interesting speakers from a variety of backgrounds. We do not try to manage the program for a specific topic but rather invite great speakers to address the group on subjects they are passionate about.” While the focus is on foot and ankle biomechanics, it expands into the clinical realm to include orthotic design, patient evaluation, and practical tips on fitting shoes and orthotics.
Attendees have much to choose from across several programs that run simultaneously. All are welcome to attend any or all of the track’s sessions and to participate in the conversation.
The day includes the following sessions:
- The Evolution from Arch Support to Functional Foot Orthosis
- Biomechanical Principles of Rocker Soles
- The UCBL Orthosis
- A Functional Model of the Foot-Ankle Mechanism During Walking
- Orthotics: Custom Versus Over the Counter
- Educating CPOs: Pedorthics Prioritized?
- The Pedorthic Tool Box
- Reviewing and Reconsidering Physical Exam Procedures for Pedorthic Intervention
In Reviewing and Reconsidering Physical Exam Procedures for Pedorthic Intervention, Ashley Mullen, PhD, MSAT, CPO, will discuss recent literature regarding physical exam procedures commonly used to determine appropriate pedorthic and lower-limb orthotic intervention. She will also review range of motion, manual muscle testing, special tests, and objective observational techniques. Attendees will discuss common findings in clinical care and evaluate considerations for physical exam finding as they relate to clinical decision-making.
Asthetics and Function in O&P Design
March 4, 8-9:30 a.m.
Session leader/Speaker: John T. Brinkmann, MA, CPO/L; FAAOP(D); Speakers: Szu-Ping Lee, PT, PhD; Michele A. Lobo, PT, PhD; Nicole R. Walker, MS, CPO; Kendall Brice; Sandy Crisp, MS, LPC-A; CRC, LCDC; Q&A Moderator: Kiley Armstrong, MS, MPO, CPO
O&P design is usually focused primarily on the fit and function of a device to achieve specific structural and functional outcomes, while aesthetics is considered of secondary importance. However, embodiment (a person’s sense of ownership, unity, and integration of a device) is crucial to understanding how device appearance can contribute to the experience of the user and impact its use. This session will address the way that functional and aesthetic priorities overlap in the experiences of individuals who use O&P devices. CPOs will be encouraged to leverage the opportunities provided by our unique role to integrate user perspectives and aesthetic features into the design of medical devices and consequently improve patient outcomes.
Studies investigating the link between aesthetic qualities, body image, participation, satisfaction, and a novel design framework (the FEA2 Model) will be discussed, and an end user will present personal perspectives. Presenters will share clinical approaches (from quick and simple to involved and intricate) that acknowledge the importance of aesthetics and suggest realistic and feasible solutions for integrating these principles into practice—without breaking the bank. The goal of the session is to encourage practitioners to address a broader range of user needs and empower patients to take a more active role in their O&P care by acknowledging the intrinsic value of the appearance of the devices we design and provide.
