October 2020 Editor&#8217;s Note

Rehabilitation for O&P patients is multifaceted, involving not just the device intervention but also working closely with other team members such as occupational and physical therapists, managing patient expectations, and finding ways to engage patients in the process. In this issue, experts explore strategies for successful outcomes.

Patients with upper-limb loss who are new users of myoelectric prostheses face a significant learning curve in their rehabilitation as they must learn to use muscle contractions to control their devices. Unlike users of lower-limb devices who are relearning how to walk, for example, the muscle activation patterns required for myoelectric users are new and thus present a novel challenge. "Game On: The Developing Realm of Myoelectric Training Through Game Play" discusses a variety of approaches that have incorporated video games to keep patients engaged in their training and provide real-time feedback as users progress in their ability to successfully control muscle activation.

While telehealth was not new prior to the current pandemic health crisis, all types of healthcare providers have been evaluating the circumstances in which it may be an appropriate option. This has certainly impacted the rehabilitation and O&P spaces as well. "Telehealth and Patient Engagement" examines how the telehealth environment may impact patient engagement and strategies for successful management of that relationship.

Just as important as the rehabilitation process itself is ensuring that patients have clear expectations of the possibilities and limitations of the interventions being considered as we read in "Fabricating a Custom Silicone Partial Hand Prosthesis." In this case study, a prosthetist worked to manage expectations of the limitations of prosthetic interventions for a woman with partial congenital finger loss on three digits to provide a silicone restoration that met her needs.

Pediatric upper-limb deficiencies can be particularly difficult to manage, but in the Academy Society Spotlight, "Experiences Within a Pediatric Myoelectric Clinic," the authors share their experiences about how the multidisciplinary approach with occupational therapists' integral involvement has been offering prosthetic rehabilitation to children since 1981.

Finally, I'd like to offer congratulations to the staff at The O&P EDGE, as the publication was honored for the sixth consecutive year with an award for excellence from the Trade, Association and Business Publications International. Just as O&P rehabilitation takes a multifaceted team, so too does producing this publication dedicated to bringing you quality content.

Happy reading.

October 2020 Editor’s Note

Academy Society Spotlight: Experiences Within a Pediatric Myoelectric Clinic

Game On: The Developing Realm of Myoelectric Training Through Game Play

Hanger Clinic President Retiring

O&P JOBS

We’re Currently Seeking Certified Prosthetist/Orthotists (CPOs) for Opportunities Throughout Several States

Certified Prosthetist Orthotist or Board Eligible Prosthetist Orthotist

Certified Prosthetist / Prosthetist-Orthotist (CP/CPO) Gates Prosthetics + Mobility Clinic — Mountain Home, AR

Get unlimited access!

EDGE DIRECT

Welcome Back!

Retrieve your password

Not enough quota to unlock this post