The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists
35th Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium 2009
March 4-7, 2009 - Atlanta, GA
Experience Exceptional O&P Education

Discuss the use of Comfort Products, Inc. product line. Included in this line are fabrics, fibers and prosthetic componentry. We will provide suggested lay-up options for your sockets using the latest materials available from Comfort Products. We will also provide the proper way to interface your sockets with the new innovative Bauerfeind componentry and prosthetic knees. We will also give you the indication of use for each product.
There are many choices available when it comes to fabrication techniques, this educational course is the best place for you to learn valuable techniques and discuss procedures that will save you time and money while providing the best solutions for your facility and patients.

Learn how to create a comfortable and secure suspension for lower-limb amputees using Ohio Willow Wood's LimbLogic™ VS — the only fully-integrated, remote-controlled vacuum suspension system on the market today. A basic overview of the features, benefits, and operation of the system will be given, along with an overview of clinical research and patient outcome data.
Significant time will be devoted to the use of LimbLogic VS in transfemoral applications, such as the ability to design the socket with a lower trim line than is possible in standard transfemoral socket design, resulting in substantially increased patient comfort and range of motion.

For many decades, rehabilitation experts have been searching for an orthosis that will safely support a weakened or paralyzed leg without locking the knee and interfering with swing phase function. Horton's Stance - Control Knee™ Joint [SCOKJ®] automatically engages and disengages a lock against flexion, offering the patient both stance phase security and swing phase toe clearance. Preliminary gait studies have demonstrated a substantial reduction in the energy cost of ambulation compared to a locked-knee gait.
This special two-part workshop will be taught by John W. Michael, MEd, CPO, FAAOP, FISPO and will include a detailed review of the sagittal plane mechanics of normal and pathologic gait. Practical instruction on selection, fabrication, adjustment, fitting, and troubleshooting the SCOKJ® will be presented in a multimedia format.

This session will highlight:
• New features in the U3+ Arm add a whole new level of function to the U3 Arm, including compatibility with new TDs, such as the iLimb Hand.
• Hands-On instruction in the User Interface software, used with the new U3+ Arm as well as ProControl 2. Bring your laptop, and we'll install the new software. Learn the new features available now in the U3 Arm.
• Specifics of the highly functioning Motion Control Terminal Devices will be presented: MC Hand, ETD, Flexion Wrist, Multi-Flex Wrist, In-Hand Wrist Rotation — learn the new features, as well as new battery options.
• The new Hybrid Utah Arm will also be presented — Flexion Assist eases elbow flexion in this body-powered elbow, with electric TD+Wrist control, and electric lock control.

Prosthetists have come to adopt liners with pins and locking devices as their mainstay suspension method for trans-tibial amputees while this provided them with major improvements over previous suspension methods available. Not all amputees have the proper tissue and limb configuration to be fitted with locking suspension. The stresses created at the distal end will cause skin and suspension problems in a good number of amputees. The largest segment of the amputee population, more specifically geriatric and less functional individuals, often have difficulty in the donning of a pin liner.

In this 4 section workshop, participants will learn the following:
• How to revive a CAD System that is not being used & recoup your investment
• How to market your CAD System to differentiate yourself & increase referrals
• How to effectively implement your CAD System & retrain your staff
• An overview of the BioSculptor System, including:
BioScanner — learn to take a lightning fast & accurate scan
BioShape — learn the step by step approach for modifying that gives consistent results
www.noplaster.com — how to send CAD files to manufacturer of your choice.

Our objective is to provide an innovative and exciting technical forum designed to enhance clinicians' products knowledge. The educational opportunity will include product selection and alignment guidelines, concepts of carbon/epoxy foot design and billing recommendations that are associated with Freedom Innovations products. Additionally, time will be spent on the unique attributes of the Plié™ MPC Knee. A report covering the product's design and a summary of testing will be provided to further your understanding of the product's capabilities. Patient demonstrations will be incorporated to enhance the learning opportunity and assist in your working knowledge of the products presented.

With the ever increasing number of foot options it is important that clinicians understand the attributes of the different prosthetic feet and match them to the needs of the user. Assuming that there currently is no one foot that can perform all functions then we have to prioritize the needs of the patient and provide an appropriate foot that optimizes their rehabilitation.
This workshop will outline all foot systems on the market today, grouping them into categories based on their mechanical characteristics. Understanding the specific needs of different amputee groups can guide us in selection of the appropriate foot for each user. Functionality, safety, preservation of the remaining limb and preference for prosthetic feet will all be presented along with any available literature.
Finally there will be a presentation outlining the key considerations for prosthetic foot design, culminating with a look at emerging engineering and bionic solutions that show the promise of advancing foot function to the next level.
Presenter: Ian Fothergill, BSc P&O, Össur
Academy Manager, Össur Americas.

We have all seen how prosthetic devices have been immersed in new developments and innovations. Otto Bock HealthCare has made a conscious decision to pursue the same spirit of innovation and drive for superior outcomes in orthotics. This workshop will show you the latest technologies available to your patients with case studies and video demonstrating the favorable outcomes. With the higher technology comes the responsibility of justification. We will show you how to be more objective in your assessment and orthosis design to ensure the most favorable outcomes for your patient.

Review the WalkAide™ system and how it restores functional mobility to persons with upper motor neuron lesions which may cause leg paralysis (i.e. "foot drop") as a result of spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis or head injury. Join presenter Deanna Fish, MS, CPO, FAAOP, Director of Clinical Support for Innovative Neurotronics to discuss WalkAide's use of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to stimulate the motor nerves directly and activate the muscle to raise the foot.

Learn when, why, and how to fit the Non-Invasive Halo instead of a traditional, invasive Halo for better patient outcome. This program begins by illustrating the indications and pathologies for use of this unique Orthosis. Then, see how the Non-Invasive Halo promotes faster healing which leads to a significant reduction in the patient's recovery time. William (Bill) Holt, CO and Leo J. Clark, MD (Neurosurgeon) have studied over a hundred cases combined, and they will share their expertise and results on these amazing findings. They will instruct a hands-on, step-by-step fitting of the Non-Invasive Halo, including modification techniques to accommodate bariatric patients and follow-up care.

Participate in a program geared to practitioners who already have experience measuring, ordering and fitting braces but want in-depth information on the methods and materials employed for successful bracing of the most challenging patients. The presentation will focus on casting techniques, brace features and design modifications that provide better fit, function and compliance. Case histories and patient video examples highlight patients exhibiting severe pronation, severe supination, unstable/uncorrectable foot positions, strong plantar flexion, crouching or hyperextension. Practitioners are encouraged to ask questions and troubleshoot pediatric and adult bracing problems.

Successful clinical application of KAFOs with stance control knee joints requires an understanding of the technical features of each joint as well as an understanding of the biomechanical deficit that is being replaced. Accurate individual selection protocols have been developed for the Becker Orthopedic family of stance control knee joints and will be discussed.
Designed specifically for patients with quadriceps weakness, this new family of stance controlled orthotic joints allows the orthotic knee joint to lock and resist knee flexion at a point approximating initial contact (the beginning of first rocker) and unlock, allowing knee flexion, at a point approximating heel off (the beginning of third rocker). This arrangement permits some individuals with lower limb paralysis to more closely mimic normal gait than is possible in a locked KAFO.
This workshop will attempt to provide a broad overview of contemporary component design and construct a matrix, or frame of reference, that allows prescription to be informed and, irrespective of clinical diagnosis based upon the biomechanical principles of joint motion, the underlying design of the orthosis and its impact on the joint.

In this workshop new innovations, designed to enhance amputee-prosthesis interaction comfort and mobility will be presented. The factors and challenges that influence the control and optimization of prosthetic gait in real world walking environments will be reviewed. Research has shown that the key to success is simplification of limb setup, to the extent that amputees can align and program their own prosthesis. The new technology of self-aligning prosthesis, self-programming 'smart' prostheses and advanced polycentric knee designs builds on established voluntary control concepts and biomechanical principles to empower amputees and enhance mobility, comfort, proprioception and lifestyle.

The award winning NESS L300TM Foot Drop System represents a breakthrough in Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) technology that can help patients with neurological disorders regain lost mobility. The NESS L300TM is an advanced neuroprosthesis intended for treating foot drop thus enabling a return to a more normal lifestyle. The NESS L300TM Foot Drop System has revolutionized the application of lower limb FES in the clinic and home settings through wireless technology, real-time gait recognition and accurate and repeatable electrode placement. The NESS L300TM is offered exclusively through Bioness Inc., an innovative provider of neuromodulation products that aid individuals in the recovery of central nervous system disorders such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury.

Marlo Ortiz's development of the MAS Ischial containment socket technique has challenged the most experienced practitioner. Marlo's desire for a device to assist the trained prosthetist drove the development of the Littig Impression Machine. The Littig Impression Machine is the only MAS casting system, developed with Marlo Ortiz that provides more accurate measurement and cast for the MAS socket technique.

This workshop is the first in a series planned to provide information about international mission projects and explain how practitioners can a difference by becoming involved. Practitioners will also learn how plan a mission, acquire prosthetic supplies, and find funding for their missions to developing countries. Presenters will share their experiences as mission prosthetists and a panel discussion at the end will offer practitioners the opportunity to ask specific questions regarding international missions.

This program integrates biomechanics, proprioception and muscle function with orthotic designs and applications to enhance gait outcomes. Case studies will be presented for both adults and children. In the workshop segment, you will learn how to properly align, modify and customize orthoses to meet individual patient needs, achieve desired outcomes and optimize product integrity.

If you have been waiting for the next generation stance control knees, the time is now to try out the next generation of orthotic stance control knee designs. Fillauer brings the next generation Swing Phase Lock that combines the fitting simplicity of the original with an all-new multi-positional locking design with improved cosmesis. The SPL continues to be the best selling stance control orthotic knee joint because of its fabrication ease and versatility. This workshop will cover the development of the Swing Phase Lock and the latest clinical uses and variations. Special cases along with live patient demonstrations will illustrate clinical methods to optimize SPL use. Unique uses and adaptation will also be covered. This update will familiarize the practitioner with the knowledge and resources available to offer this latest design immediately.

The OMEGA Tracer system from Ohio Willow Wood is constantly expanding and improving to offer a greater range of clinical, administrative, and fabrication benefits to orthotists, prosthetists and pedorthists. Receive a thorough overview of current, recently added and upcoming features for both current users and those considering CAD for their practice for the first time. Join us as we cover the shape capture and creation options, intuitive modification software, and documentation capabilities of the premier CAD system for orthotics and prosthetics. Presenters: Jennifer Dowell, CPO

For many decades, rehabilitation experts have been searching for an orthosis that will safely support a weakened or paralyzed leg without locking the knee and interfering with swing phase function. Horton's Stance - Control Knee™ Joint [SCOKJ®] automatically engages and disengages a lock against flexion, offering the patient both stance phase security and swing phase toe clearance. Preliminary gait studies have demonstrated a substantial reduction in the energy cost of ambulation compared to a locked-knee gait. This special two-part workshop will be taught by John W. Michael, MEd, CPO, FAAOP, FISPO and will include a detailed review of the sagittal plane mechanics of normal and pathologic gait. Practical instruction on selection, fabrication, adjustment, fitting, and troubleshooting the SCOKJ® will be presented in a multimedia format.

Canfit™ Design software — a revolutionary advancement in CAD/CAM technology — allows you to increase your efficiency in the CAD process by enabling you to choose the most effective design processes. Within each clinical application - prosthetic sockets body jackets, AFOs, KAFOs, seats - there exists patient cases of varying intricacy. The goal is to be able to provide outstanding clinical outcomes as efficiently as possible. To achieve this goal, you need to know: what types of input data should be used — measurements, photos, 3D shape scans; what the most effective design processes are and how to speed up the design process. This workshop will present methodologies for coping with the wide range of complexity in today's clinical reality. Canfit™ Design software offers you the freedom to design without limitations.

This workshop will discuss the fundamentals of cervical immobilization. New concepts associated with Össur's Resolve® halo system will be introduced, including biomechanical principles behind the new Resolve® vest. Key concepts to be discussed include the complete MR compatibility of the Resolve® halo system's components: ring, vest, superstructure and also J-Tongs®. Case studies will be presented to validate optimal outcomes. Product application demonstrations will also be provided.

The Helix 3D Hip is the first commercially available hip joint with hydraulic stance and swing phase control. The patented polycentric design provides a more natural rotational movement through the gait cycle to help compensate for the rotation of the pelvis. This presentation will cover the basic function of the hip joint including alignment requirements and the basic adjustments for control. Benefits for the amputee will also be discussed. This presentation is informational only; a certification course will be required to purchase and fit this product. Presenter: Byron Backus, Jr., CP, Otto Bock HealthCare Clinical Specialist

This is a two part workshop. Part one focuses on advanced assessment techniques for Ultraflex therapeutic orthoses along with their implications for proper designs. Part two focuses on how adding adjustable dynamic response technology to clinical practice can offer both you and your patients many advanced benefits.

Townsend Design and its sister company, BioQuest Prosthetics, will offer a fast-paced, multiple subject workshop that includes segments on human gait, prosthetic feet, bracing, orthopedic market trends, competitive business strategies, and the value of working with smaller O&P friendly manufacturers that still utilize USA employees. This seminar has practical information for both the "O" and the "P" aspects of your business — addressing technical, economic and communication issues that influence referrals, patient satisfaction and profit margins. Practitioners attending this workshop will gain new perspectives on how to cost-efficiently achieve positive patient outcomes using technology available from Townsend and BioQuest. Presenters: Rick Riley, CEO, Townsend Design and Barry Townsend, CPO, President of BioQuest Prosthetics

The success of your O&P practice depends on your ability to implement effective and efficient processes, manage workflow smoothly and maintain accountability. OPIE Software was designed by practicing O&P clinicians and business owners for this purpose. OPIE provides seamless workflow through the administrative, clinical, fabrication, billing, and collections processes, and then gives you extensive reporting tools to analyze everything that is happening and make improvements. Come see how OPIE can help you provide better care, improve your bottom line and breeze through the accreditation process!

The O&P community is seeing an increase in pedorthic services and shoe fittings in general. Unfortunately, standard O&P education does not address the nuances of proper shoe fitting to help practices "fit it right the first time". Join us for this mini shoe fitting workshop that will address foot evaluation and its connection to patient-appropriate footwear. Also learn how to use the various Aetrex shoe casts to provide the best shoe for your patient. These techniques should help limit time and cost with shoe selection and increase patient compliance and satisfaction.

The i-LIMB workshop reviews the functional differences between the i-LIMB Hand and other myo-electric systems. During the workshop operation of the i-LIMB System, patient evaluation, functional testing of myoelectric control, integration, cosmesis options and use/care of the i-LIMB Hand will be discussed. Afterwards, participants who pass the online course exam will be included in the list of "Accredited i-LIMB Hand Practitioners" on the Touch Bionics website.
Pre-requisites:
• Practitioner must have attended a MyoBock certification course or Motion Control Utah Arm course within the past three years.
• Practitioner must be certified and/or licensed in order to attend the i-LIMB Hand Training Course.

The development of modular vacuum donning components allows more amputees the ability to don transfemoral suction suspension prostheses. The purpose of this workshop is to inform practitioners of their options with these units. Guidelines for use and maintenance of these vacuum donning systems will be presented.

This program identifies a new option in the clinical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The presenter will introduce the elements of the system, biomechanical differences between fulltime systems and the Providence and results of treatment using this system. The intent and goal of the program is to increase the practitioner's awareness to this nocturnal approach in scoliosis treatment.

Participate in an overview of Adult scoliosis from its development to its treatment. Discuss the differences between Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), Adolescent Scoliosis in the Adult (ASA) and it's three categories, as well as Adult onset Degenerative De Novo Scoliosis (DDS). Explore the predictors for the development of spinal pain and the factors leading to Adult Scoliosis progression. Consider both conservative and surgical treatment options.
Participate in a practical component, that introduces the use of the SpineCor® brace for Adults, and covers the indications and contra-indications for it's use. The use of SpineCor® as a postural re-education/rehabilitation tool has demonstrated significant success in the reduction of pain in hundreds of patients treated to date.
The workshop will include the following topics:
• Basic Spinal anatomy and biomechanics
• Scoliosis Overview- Classification by etiology
• Idiopathic Scoliosis Overview
• Clinical evaluation of Scoliosis
• SpineCor® Radiological Classification
• Dynamic Bracing Concept
• Corrective Movement & Brace Fitting
• Adult Scoliosis Classification indications and contra-indications for use
• Case Studies & Treatment Results

Learn the benefits of some of the newest carbon fiber, fiberglass and Kevlar composites and composites on the market. Discover what new resin formulations have to offer O & P in the way of cost cutting and time savings in the fabrication of O & P specific devices. You'll see firsthand techniques as instructors fabricate custom foot orthoses, AFOs, knee braces, and more using these revolutionary new thermoplastic composites. Using common O & P fabrication equipment any lab or facility can now add composite fabrication to its list of available services.
If you've ever considered adding composite fabrication services, but stopped short because of labor or product cost - this workshop is for you.
If you currently use prepreg composites and want to learn how to eliminate the expensive shipping and storage costs this workshop is for you.
If you currently do composite wet-layup and are interested in eliminating the messy, smelly, and time consuming manual wet layup process entirely, this workshop is for you.

Unloader braces are designed to decrease the load on the degenerative compartment of the knee in order to improve function and decrease symptoms related to malalignment and osteoarthritis. Review the results of a study that documented a patient's expectation of treatment and outcomes following six months of use of an unloader brace. Outcomes and responses to the brace were measured by symptoms, function, use of pain medication and quality of life.

Recent controversy and media attention has speculated potential advantages that a running-specific prosthesis might confer compared to a runner with intact limbs during competition. This study examines the physiological response of an amputee using a running-specific prosthesis versus a traditional prosthesis and cross references them with non-amputee controls matched by training status, age, gender and body composition during level treadmill running.

Many studies have reported that the energy expenditure of Reciprocating Gait Orthosis (RGOs) users while walking is several times greater than that of able-bodied people and has been cited as the major contributor to the high abandonment rates and limited use of RGOs. This case series investigates the dynamics of ambulation with RGOs in order to identify and better understand the potential causes of the high energy expenditure.

Effective performance of the cycling task requires integration of human neuromuscular control systems and the machine in order to efficiently negotiate the bicycle in its environment. This study contends that pedaling asymmetry in the cyclists with Transtibial amputations (CTA) group is significantly higher than the intact population, asymmetry will decrease as the prosthetic foot becomes stiffer and power loss due to the affected ankle joint is not the only cause of pedaling asymmetry.

Review three case studies and walk through clinical decision making with the utilization of evidence-based practice. Explore recommendations and decisions with a multi-disciplinary panel. Audience participation is a key component of this session.

Discuss the importance of evidence-based practice and how the future of prosthetic care will depend on developing sound medical evidence for the effectiveness of treatment strategies. Explore the shift in clinical medicine that rewards quality of care. Consider the eventuality that the government may reimburse for how well procedures performed lead to improved function and mobility of the patient and not just for the procedure done.

Focus on the necessary financial, organizational and personnel controls needed to effectively manage an O&P company. From benchmarks and budgeting to employee fraud we will review these important issues as well as many others.

Over the last 15 years, microprocessor controlled prosthetic knees have been the focus of many different research studies. Through such research, we have learned much about how these components influence a user's ability to ambulate. More recently, researchers have started to change the way in which these components are evaluated. This session will examine this shift in research philosophy and design, and its implications for future research.

Review the results of a study undertaken to quantify the restraining forces at the knee joint of a KAFO.

Utilize the results of this literature review of Arthrogenous muscle inhibition (AMI) to decide if an orthotic protocol should be established for patients, especially with the availability of function and stability restoring stance control Orthoses.

Examine results of a case study in treating a patient born with complex clubfeet and the treatments that occurred in the care.

Discuss the literature review carried out as part of a post graduate research degree into the use of Lycra® leggings as an orthotic intervention in children with spastic diplegia.

Explore a study that demonstrates how to utilize a pedometer to objectively measure activity levels and a simple AFO patient satisfaction survey to subjectively assess patient's self perception of function in two separate Orthoses outside the clinical setting.

Consider the problems associated with combined weakness of the quadriceps and hip musculature and discuss a series of case studies that highlight the clinical strategies that can be adopted to allow successful utilization of stance control technology.

Review the results of a study that strongly supports introducing copper-oxide in wound-dressings to enhance healing of chronic ischemic wounds.

We all know insurances aren't giving us MORE money. We actually know it is going to be less and more regulated. How can you still make a profit in troubling times? We will explore ideas to make your practice more profitable and find where you can keep profits from slipping away.

Discuss the various amputation procedures for the Transtibial amputee.

Discuss partial feet to the Symes.

In the fall of 2008, the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics convened a consensus conference on the management of children with Cerebral Palsy. Twenty-four participants from around the world, including orthotists, orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, physical and occupational therapists and engineers, assembled for a literature based discussion on the medical management of CP. This session will review the two systematic literature reviews which were presented at the conference on the role of orthotics as well as other important aspects and findings of the meeting.

The aim of this study was to investigate how children with unilateral lower limb amputation land from a vertical drop.

Examine results of this study that investigated how prosthetic foot/ankle alignment affects balance efficiency on sloped surfaces in persons with transfemoral amputations.

Review guidelines that are from a review of data and experience acquired from on going Persons with a Transtibial Amputation (PTA) cycling studies in conjunction with a computer model to investigate basic questions.

Discuss results of a study that compared the ability of children with limb loss to maintain balance during backpack carriage with similar overall results to their typically developing peers.

Examine whether or not there is sufficient clinical research supporting the claim that microprocessor-controlled knees provide greater efficiency and effectiveness over conventional lower-limit prostheses.

Explore results of a study to characterize loading patterns of the intact and amputated limbs during the various phases of sit-to-stand (STS) activity for the two conditions of rising from a commercially available standard height chair without the use of upper limbs and rising from the same chair with the aid of hands placed on the armrests.

Examine the first year of rehabilitation of a deconditioned geriatric client with unilateral Transfemoral amputation. Discuss the interventions and assessments used to improve and document the ambulatory effort used with this client.

What is it that separates successful people from the rest of the crowd? Meeting some people just makes us feel better. Why? How can you make yourself a successful person? Learn the most important skill needed in any job.

With support from both DARPA and the NIH, learn more about a revolutionary surgical technique with exciting prosthetic advances aimed at allowing better control of an externally powered upper limb prosthesis. The panel will report on additional control signals this technique creates for the transhumeral and shoulder disarticulation level amputee, and ways in which improved prosthetic performance is quantified. Future advances in upper limb protheses control and componentry will also be discussed.

Review results of this randomized cross-over study that was done to assess the effect of different ankle components on the gait of adults with post-stroke hemiparesis who wore articulated AFOs.

Examine results of a study that investigated if well being, absenteeism from work and quality of life can be influenced by orthotics.

Review study results to determine perceptions and acceptance of Osseointegration as a means of prosthetic suspension among individuals with lower limb amputations and to identify factors which may relate to an individual's willingness to consider the procedure once it is available in the United States.

This study examined the impact of sloped surfaces on the shank angle and the resulting reliability of the tilt sensor for stimulation control for people with Drop Foot.

Gain an understanding of the significant time and resources that are spent on durability testing to ensure that a product is durable and reliable.

Review results of a study that was designed to enable the fit of the orthosis and any change in the fit to be measured visually during a defined load.

Learn from over 10 years of consulting experience in the O&P profession to present valuable and practical business information including common pitfalls in running a business, how to gain market share and how to create an entrepreneurial niche for your practice.

Therapeutic Electric Stimulation (TES) has been around for a long time with a lot of research and data on outcomes and evidence. More recently orthotic intervention utilizing Functional Electric Stimulation (FES) has become an option for practitioners treating patients with Upper Motor Neuron Drop Foot. This session will review the science behind FES as well as discuss the indications, clinical research, evidence, and outcomes using FES.

Discuss the author's development of a prosthesis which should be comfortable, light weight, hardwearing, cheap, and which can be used as long as possible.

This session will review the history of hip disarticulation biomechanics and describe new solutions available through this new hip joint system.

Review results of a study of the Double Centrode Polycentric Knee Joint as a potentially versatile and safe prosthetic component.

This presentation will discuss the differences between the new categories of lower extremity computer controlled prosthetics from both an engineering development perspective and clinical considerations perspective so that practitioners can better understand which device may be best suited for the user.

This presentation will provide information on the difference of circumference measurements considering demographical aspects such as sex, age, rural and urban population.

The goal of this research project was to study the biomechanical effects of heel heights on a subject with a unilateral Transtibial amputation using gait analysis and force plate data collection.

Explore the importance of the relationship between the individual with upper limb difference, the prosthetist and the occupational therapist. This session will discuss the unique specialty of upper-limb prosthetic focused occupational therapy (OT), suggested therapy programs for upper limb loss, concomitant injuries and the treatment plan, repetitive stress and overuse in the upper limb loss population, and what every prosthetist should know about working with an OT.

In 2008, the Northwestern University Prosthetics Research Laboratory (NUPRL) and Rehabilitation Engineering Research Program (RERP) were awarded the 5-year Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) for Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O) from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR). Collectively, the proposed research and development projects are intended to enhance the ability of prosthesis and orthosis users to perform activities of daily living and negotiate their daily environment safely and effectively, engage in their chosen employment/vocation, and improve their health through the safe and effective use of P&O devices. The NUPRL & RERP place a high priority on communication and collaboration with P&O practitioners, users and engineering researchers in order to identify and address clinically-relevant research and development problems. This presentation will provide an overview of the new RERC projects with an opportunity for discussion with attendees.

This presentation will review the infant's course of treatment and outcomes. It will broach the subject of ethical considerations for the practitioner when considering treatment options for infants with complex head shapes related to progressive or dire disease states.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the difference, if any, between two modification styles of cranial remolding devices.

This presentation will discuss the course of treatment and outcomes for an infant born 25 weeks prematurely weighing 1 pound 7 ounces.

This study examined the kinematic differences of a bilateral transradial amputee using body-powered and myoelectric prostheses during select activities of daily living.

This presentation will discuss the recently introduced clinical technique for achieving negative-pressure in TransTibial sockets (without the use of mechanical/electrical components) and how it has been modified to apply to TransRadial sockets.

Trace the evolution of the Transtibial interface.

Explore and discuss normal Transtibial gait.

Review results of a study that concluded that wrist function is clearly an important contributor to function of the Terminal Device and thus the prosthesis. Evolution of designs will be described in response to wearer feedback.

Review the history of the Prosthetic & Orthotic Component Clearinghouse, the impact this project has had on developing world prosthetics and orthotics as well as offer suggestions for how others can participate with international humanitarian P&O mission activities.

The objectives of this study are to give participants an understanding of EBP, indicate the barriers to implementing EBP, present a useful model for applying EBP to clinical practice, and to discuss clinical experience developing an evidence based practice using this model.

Review how pendulum dynamics can be used to improve the function of an artificial device.

This presentation will describe a dynamic Lycra® shoulder stability Orthosis specifically designed to provide a means of supporting, but allowing as full range of movement as possible coupled with the provision of integral shoulder stability and pain reduction often experienced by this client group.

Participate in this presentation skills workshop to help develop better presentations. Whether presenting your ideas to your peers, during an in-service, to insurances — you need a strong skill set to get your points across and have people happy they came to listen to you. This is an interactive workshop designed to develop and hone your skills as a presenter.

In recent years, new techniques have been developed which allow for the fitting of Sub-Ischial transfemoral socket designs. In this session, clinicians from around the country will present the techniques which they have found successful with respect to liner styles, material choices, mold modification, socket trim lines and alignment principles.

As remolding helmets continue to become more and more frequently encountered in our industry, this session is intended to provide clinicians with insights into some of the real world challenges of fitting and managing this unique patient population. Basic and advanced techniques to establish and maintain an appropriate helmet fit, as well as approaches to securing reimbursement and the impact of torticollis will be presented by an experienced faculty.

The objective of this study was to assess the impression, check socket, and final socket shapes to determine the relative differences in volume, sagittal/coronal diameter, circumference and contours between various techniques employed in the fitting of TSB sockets.

The purpose of this study was to compare the accepted principles of partial foot amputation to current evidence regarding pressure, biomechanics and prosthetic recommendation.

The purpose of this study was to provide outcome information concerning elevated vacuum levels for amputee patients.

The goals of this study were to develop Evidence Statements that could be used to guide clinical decision-making, indicate the level of confidence that clinicians could place in the statements, identify methodological concerns with the research methods that have been used and make recommendations concerning future research.

Review the results of a study to assess the implications of an articulating knee component on crawling children with limb loss.

This study independently evaluated the effect of contemporary prosthetic devices on the physical function of a group of Transfemoral amputees.

Review the importance of skilled observation, clinical evaluation and individual consideration for optimal patient care. An appropriate assessment process can provide feedback for the continuous improvement of the treatment process.

The purpose of this presentation is to provide a description of the orthotic management of pectus carinatum — a chest wall deformity in which the sternum and adjacent costal cartilages protrude anteriourly in a convex manner.

The goal of this report is to present two cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and to highlight the importance of accurate classification. The impact and problems associated with the mis-classification of similar curves will be discussed.

This is a retrospective study examining coronal plane spine radiographs of 50 adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis and prescribed a Boston Brace-style thoracolumbosacral orthosis.

Build your own business by boosting attitudes. Four techniques help you and your staff improve your outlook and increase productivity. Additional skills help strengthen your business and improve client relations.

A comparison of traditional treatment vs. the Dobbs Method of clubfoot treatment. Topics such as grading systems for clubfoot and the various types of diagnoses besides idiopathic that present with clubfoot will be discussed. A compliance study will be presented to demonstrate the success rate with the Dobbs system as well as a retrospective look at the Dobbs system for clubfoot management.

Discuss wound care options for the Transtibial amputee.

Assess the liners currently available and determine which is best for your practice.

Review current designs that utilize composite uprights and their corresponding affect to the joint motions during gait. Different classes of dynamic AFOs will be compared and differentiated from existing designs. The integration of various composite, thermoplastic and thermosetting materials will be discussed to achieve proper resistance, stiffness, flexion, and conformability to optimize gait.

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of combining FES treatment with a low-profile, articulated AFO for patients with foot drop.

Discuss footwear problems in relation to Elephantiasis, Leprosy and Diabetes.

The purpose of this study was to utilize a concept of robot end effect with a systematic design procedure to illustrate a new way to thinking in terms of hip-joint design for orthotics.

The purpose of this presentation is to show the reasoning why a heel lift should extend proximal to the met heads. It is also to show why full length sole lifts are to be used above a certain leg length discrepancy.

Explore whether poor military boot performance justifies the initiative to develop a better approach to foot measurement and foot/boot fit for better performance.

The central purpose of this study was to investigate the number of lower-limb prostheses produced in Georgia during the years 2000 and 2004.

Gain an understanding of self audits and how they can affect lost revenue.

This presentation outlines one approach to measuring the efficacy of clinical intervention in O&P and shows the results obtained in a one year period.

Review study results that identify key health and prosthetic-related issues for Vietnam and OIF/OEF service members with major traumatic amputations occurring in a combat theater.

Discuss abnormal Transtibial gait.

Compare the pros and cons of the different vacuum systems.

Symes and partial foot amputee.