November 2010 O&P Almanac

Almanac OP The American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association

NOVEMBER 2010

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WWW.AOPANET.ORG

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE ORTHOTICS & PROSTHETICS INDUSTRY

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O&P Almanac CONTENTS

NOVEMBER 2010, VOLUME 59, NO. 11

COLUMNS

COVER STORY Specialized Foot Care

By Deborah Conn The causes of foot pain can range from benign to serious, forcing practitioners to be well versed in many aspects of patient care. Several pedorthists weigh in with tips for detecting and treating plantar fasciitis, diabetic foot complications, and Raynaud’s Disease.

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New information on five old (Medicare) standards

DEPARTMENTS

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FEATURES

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AOPA Contact Page How to reach staff

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In the News Updates and company announcements

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26 Touching the Future—Today

By Kim Fernandez Thanks to the Office of the Future display at the 2010 AOPA National Assembly, more O&P practitioners can imagine themselves using the integrated technology and software that make for a highly productive practice.

34 Challenging the Status Quo

SPECIAL

AOPA’s 2010 National Assembly offered attendees inspiration and motivation to adapt and flourish in a rapidly changing profession.

Reimbursement Page

AOPA Headlines News about AOPA initiatives, meetings, member benefits, and more

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AOPA Membership Applications

64 Jobs

Opportunities for O&P professionals

70 Calendar

Upcoming meetings and events

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Ad Index

40 Buyer’s Guide to Foot Care

Don’t miss the fifth annual resource, packed with the latest pedorthic products and services, plus a comprehensive vendor guide.

O&P Almanac (ISSN: 1061-4621) is published monthly by the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association, 330 John Carlyle St., Ste. 200, Alexandria, VA 22314; 571/431-0876; fax 571/4310899; e-mail: almanac@AOPAnet.org. Yearly subscription rates: $59 domestic; $99 foreign. All foreign subscriptions must be prepaid in U.S. currency, and payment should come from a U.S. affiliate bank. A $35 processing fee must be added for non-affiliate bank checks. O&P Almanac does not issue refunds. Periodical postage paid at Alexandria, VA, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to: O&P Almanac, 330 John Carlyle St., Ste. 200, Alexandria, VA 22314. For advertising information, contact Dean Mather, M.J. Mrvica Associates Inc. at 856/768-9360, e-mail: dmather@mrvica.com.

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

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OP Almanac

AOPA CONTACT INFORMATION

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AMERICAN ORTHOTIC & PROSTHETIC ASSOCIATION (AOPA) 330 John Carlyle St., Ste. 200, Alexandria, VA 22314 AOPA Main Number: 571/431-0876 AOPA Fax: 571/431-0899 www.AOPAnet.org EXECUTIVE OFFICES

MEMBERSHIP AND MEETINGS

Thomas F. Fise, JD, executive director, 571/431-0802, tfise@AOPAnet.org

Tina Moran, CMP, senior director of membership operations and meetings, 571/431-0808, tmoran@AOPAnet.org

Don DeBolt, chief operating officer, 571/431-0814, ddebolt@AOPAnet.org O&P ALMANAC Thomas F. Fise, JD, publisher, 571/431-0802, tfise@AOPAnet.org Josephine Rossi, editor, 703/914-9200 ext. 26, jrossi@strattonpublishing.com

Kelly O’Neill, manager of membership and meetings, 571/431-0852, koneill@AOPAnet.org Steven Rybicki, communications manager, 571/431-0835, srybicki@AOPAnet.org Michael Chapman, coordinator, membership operations and meetings, 571/431-0843, mchapman@AOPAnet.org

Catherine Marinoff, art director, 786/293-1577, catherine@marinoffdesign.com

Ann Davis, office, meetings administrator, and associate editor, AOPA in Advance, 571/431-0876, adavis@AOPAnet.org

Dean Mather, advertising sales representative, 856/768-9360, dmather@mrvica.com

AOPA Bookstore: 571/431-0865

Steven Rybicki, production manager, 571/431-0835, srybicki@AOPAnet.org Ann Davis, staff writer, 571/431-0876, adavis@AOPAnet.org Teresa Tobat, editorial/production assistant, 703/914-9200 ext. 33, ttobat@strattonpublishing.com

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Kathy Dodson, senior director of government affairs, 571/431-0810, kdodson@AOPAnet.org

PUBLISHER Thomas F. Fise, JD EDITORIAL MANAGEMENT Stratton Publishing & Marketing Inc. ADVERTISING SALES M.J. Mrvica Associates Inc. DESIGN & PRODUCTION Marinoff Design LLC PRINTING United Litho Inc.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS President James A. Kaiser, CP, Scheck & Siress, Chicago, IL President-Elect Thomas V. DiBello, CO, FAAOP, Dynamic O&P, LLC, Houston, TX Vice President Bert Harman, Otto Bock Health Care, Minneapolis, MN Treasurer James Weber, MBA, Prosthetic & Orthotic Care, Inc., St. Louis, MO Immediate Past President Brian L. Gustin, CP Executive Director/Secretary Thomas F. Fise, JD, AOPA, Alexandria, VA

DIRECTORS

Devon Bernard, reimbursement services coordinator, 571/431-0854, dbernard@AOPAnet.org

Kel M. Bergmann, CPO, SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics Inc., San Diego, CA

Joe McTernan, director of reimbursement services, 571/431-0811, jmcternan@AOPAnet.org

Russell J. Hornfisher, Becker Orthopedic Appliance Co., Troy, MI

Reimbursement/Coding: 571/431-0833, www.LCodeSearch.com a

Rick Fleetwood, MPA, Snell Prosthetic & Orthotic Laboratory, Little Rock, AR

Alfred E. Kritter, Jr., CPO, FAAOP, Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics Inc., Savannah, GA Anita Liberman-Lampear, MA, University of Michigan Orthotics and Prosthetics Center, Ann Arbor, MI Mahesh Mansukhani, MBA Ossur Americas, Aliso Viejo, CA John H. Reynolds, CPO, FAAOP, Reynolds Prosthetics & Orthotics Inc., Maryville, TN

AMERICAN ORTHOTIC & PROSTHETIC ASSOCIATION

Lisa Schoonmaker, CPO, FAAOP, Tandem Orthotics & Prosthetics Inc., Sartell, MN Frank Vero, CPO, Mid-Florida Prosthetics & Orthotics, Ocala, FL

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

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Copyright 2010 American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association. All rights reserved. This publication may not be copied in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher. The opinions expressed by authors do not necessarily reflect the official views of AOPA, nor does the association necessarily endorse products shown in the Almanac. The Almanac is not responsible for returning any unsolicited materials. All letters, press releases, announcements, and articles submitted to the Almanac may be edited for space and content. The magazine is meant to provide accurate, authoritative information about the subject matter covered. It is provided and disseminated with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal or other professional services. If legal advice and/or expert assistance is required, a competent professional should be consulted.

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In the News

Amputees Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro With just one leg among them, three disabled veterans from three wars succeeded in climbing 19,340-foot Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, in August. The climbers, dubbed Team Missing Parts in Action, were sponsored by Disabled Sports USA (DSUSA), one of the largest sporting organizations for people with physical disabilities, in partnership with the Challenged Athletes Foundation.

Two of the climbers are double-leg amputees, and one is a single aboveknee amputee, leaving literally one good leg among the three to climb the tallest mountain in Africa. Making up the team were Sgt. Neil Duncan, 27, a double-leg amputee injured in Afghanistan; Staff Sgt. Dan Nevins, 39, a double below-knee amputee injured in Iraq; and Sgt. Kirk Bauer, JD, 62, a single above-knee amputee injured in Vietnam.

TRANSITIONS

Jeffrey Brandt, CPO, CEO, of Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics Inc., and his patient, Michael Waldron, were featured on a segment of the Today Show. Michael, 18, was born with only a thumb on his right hand and is one of the first people in the country to receive bionic fingers called ProDigits from Touch Bionics.

Jamey French has been named development director for the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA). A

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

To learn about DSUS, visit www. dsusa.org or call 301/217-9840. For the Challenged Athletes Foundation, log on to www.challengedathletes.org or call 858/866-0959.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Ryan Arbogast has been promoted to general manager and vice president of operations at Ohio Willow Wood.

Ryan is a fourth-generation Arbogast family member to work for the company.

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Guided by Nickson Moshi, the team ascended the mountain in six days.

Moshi, owner of Massai Giraffe Safari, previously led blind climber Erik Weihenmayer up Mt. Kilimanjaro.

fund-raising and development professional in the health-care and public sector fields, French also has been owner and lead trainer of the Dreamality Group in Greenville, Ohio, where he assisted organizations in strategic planning, development, and training.

Brian Gustin was selected as the inaugural recipient of the 2010 Sam E. Hamontree Business Education Award. His paper, A New Service Delivery Model for Reducing Time Demands on O&P Staff and Increasing Asset Utilization, was presented at a special ceremony at the AOPA National Assembly on October 1.

Todd McAllister, CP, FAAOP, and Robin McRae, CP, LP, have joined

the Comprehensive Prosthetic & Orthotics practice.

Eileen Levis, president and CEO of Orthologix, participated in a business roundtable discussion with Congressman Joe Sestak (PA-07) at the offices of Duane Morris, LLP, in Philadelphia. The meeting included more than 15 state and area business leaders who participated in person and through a webcast.

Sara Smucker has joined Otto Bock HealthCare as a territory sales representative in technical orthopedics.

Smucker is responsible for developing and implementing a successful sales strategy and fostering new growth in the state of Ohio.

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In the News ACA Hosts 11th Annual Youth Camp

TRANSITIONS

Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics announced the launch of WalkAccess, a home assessment program for

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

Photos: Barbara Pennington

BUSINESSES IN THE NEWS

The Board of Certification/ Accreditation, International (BOC) has honored the late Donald O. Fedder, DrPH, MPH, BSP, FAPhA, BOC’s founder and first CEO, by dedicating a wing of its new headquarters to him. The “Don Fedder Suite” expands BOC’s Owings Mills, Maryland, offices by more than one third, to a total of nearly 4,000 square feet.

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and more self-confidence,” says Cohen. “And that’s what it’s all about.”

For more information, contact the lifespan program coordinator at 888/267-5669, ext. 8130, or e-mail yapinfo@amputee-coalition.org.

Photo: ACA

Thanks to the more than $180,000 raised by the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA), 100 children went to camp this past summer.

The campers, ages 10-17, attended ACA’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp in Clarksville, Ohio.

The five-day annual summer camp offers a full range of activities that include fishing, swimming, canoeing, theater, dance, archery, and more. A unique aspect of this program, according to Marshall J. Cohen, chairman of the ACA Board of Directors, is that campers are not accompanied by their parents. This inspires children who have lost limbs or were born with limb differences to take on new challenges, be independent, test themselves, and build new friendships in a supportive, caring environment.

“Parents report that their campers leave camp with higher self-esteem

its neuromuscular device called the WalkAide System.

The Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) announced that Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics and its founder, Jeff Brandt, CPO, CEO, recently contributed to the ongoing Dale Yasukawa Memorial Scholarship Fund, maintained

by OPAF and The First Clinics.

Additionally, OPAF announced that it has certified Amy Franklin of Charlotte, North Carolina, as its seventh national instructor.

Touch Bionics has won the award for the Most Innovative Company of the Year at the 2010 International Business Awards.

University of Michigan Orthotics and Prosthetics Center announced the addition of Kathryn Antle, Elizabeth Halsne, Molly Hill, and John Sytniak to the center’s residency program.

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Reimbursement Page

By Kathy Dodson, AOPA government affairs department

Meeting the New Medicare Supplier Standards New and expanded standards make entering the system more difficult

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s the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) garners more and more unwanted publicity for Medicare fraud and abuse, pressure from Congress to tighten up the system also has increased. The latest attempt by CMS to meet this mandate takes the form of new supplier standards that make it more difficult to get into the Medicare program. These new requirements are on top of previous years’ surety bonds, accreditation requirements, and restrictions in the Medicare Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership System (PECOS).

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

In the July 2010 Reimbursement Page, we discussed the 26 supplier standards, especially those that often give facilities the most difficulty.

Now, we have not only several new standards—bringing the total to 30— but also some further expansion of the previous 26. These new changes went into effect on September 27, except for certain provisions of Standard 7, as noted below.

You can find a copy of the new standards by going to the AOPA Web site at www.AOPAnet.org and clicking on “Coding & Reimbursement,” then “Medicare Quality and Supplier

Standards.” As with past versions of the supplier standards, you can find both the complete version and an abbreviated version meant to be given to patients.

Now, let’s discuss the five old standards that have been clarified or expanded:

Standard 1 This standard now requires that all practitioners in O&P licensure states must be licensed. The old standards implied as much, but the new one is explicit. It also requires that the facility “must employ the licensed professional on a full-time or part-time basis” except for suppliers who have been awarded a competitive bidding contract (not currently applicable to O&P) or who are in a state that allows subcontracting of licensed services.

As of this writing, however, the interpretation of employing a licensed professional on a full- or part-time basis is not crystal clear.

Some CMS staff members say this means that all practitioners must be W-2 employees and that subcontracting is not allowed, while others say that you must have at least one employed practitioner but can subcontract others.

It also is unclear whether this applies only in licensure states or for all states. AOPA has provided CMS with a long list of questions about the new standards but by the end of September had not received a response.

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Reimbursement Page

Standard 7

Standard 8

This standard, which deals with the physical facility, has been expanded quite a bit, but some changes do not apply to O&P. For example, each supplier location is now required to be at least 200 square feet in size, with an exemption for state-licensed O&P facilities that provide custom fabricated orthoses or prostheses. This leaves open the question of whether the requirement applies to O&P facilities in nonlicensure states. CMS has said the standard does apply to free-standing pedorthic and mastectomy facilities, meaning that they must meet the new size requirement. This provision went into effect for new suppliers on September 27 and for existing suppliers on the first day after the expiration of their existing lease or Sept. 27, 2013, whichever is earlier.

Another expanded requirement of this standard is that the facility must be accessible to CMS, the National Supplier Clearinghouse (NSC), and its agents, and that it must be staffed during posted business hours. AOPA is still seeking clarification of this change, since it seems to say that all offices must be staffed for all open hours of operation—even offices that operate by appointment only. Such a requirement would severely hamper rural facilities that currently staff offices only when needed during specific appointment times.

An additional provision is that the business name and hours must be posted in a place accessible to patients and CMS staff. This means that if your facility is housed in a medical building, you must have your facility’s name at the entrance of the building or at least on a directory in the lobby. Your hours can be posted outside the entrance to your facility.

As with the old standard, you must have space for storing business records, such as delivery, maintenance, and patient communication records.

Multi-site companies, however, may store records in a central location.

These records also must include documentation of orders and referrals.

The requirement that an office must be accessible during posted business hours both to patients and to CMS is clarified in this standard.

The old version simply said the office had to be accessible to patients during reasonable business hours.

In comments accompanying the new standards, CMS notes that, while it understands that proper staff may not always be on site during an unannounced visit, the supplier must be open during posted business hours.

Again, we are seeking clarification for “by-appointment-only” offices.

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

The new standards also define “direct solicitation” as including, but not limited to, telephone, computer, e-mail, instant messaging, and in-person contact.

solicitation…” except under limited circumstances. The new standards also define “direct solicitation” as including, but not limited to, telephone, computer, e-mail, instant messaging, and in-person contact. Interestingly, snail mail is not specifically noted, although the NSC may well interpret this prohibition to cover regular postal mail as well.

In its comments on this regulation, CMS explains that a facility cannot contact a new patient at a physician’s request, unless the physician has asked a supplier to contact the patient and told the patient of this request. So if you receive a physician request to see a new patient, make sure the physician has warned the patient that someone will be in touch and document this in your records.

CMS also clarifies that advertising to the general public—such as Internet yellow pages, Google AdWords, and search engine keyword result-driven advertising—is still permitted and not considered direct solicitation.

New Standards In addition to these changes to existing standards, CMS has added four new standards: • Standard 27: This pertains only to oxygen and does not affect O&P facilities.

Standard 9 Cell phones have now been added to beepers, pagers, answering machines, and fax machines on the list of communication devices that cannot be used as a facility’s primary business phone during posted business hours. In addition, the primary phone cannot be forwarded exclusively to cell phones, beepers, or pagers during posted hours.

Standard 11 Telephone solicitation of patients was prohibited in the old standards, except in certain situations. The new standards remove the reference to “telephone” and simply say that suppliers “agree not to make a direct

• Standard 28: Although CMS has consistently said that patient records must be retained for seven years, this standard explicitly identifies ordering/referring documentation, including the referring provider’s National Provider Identifier, as included in that requirement.

• Standard 29: As of this writing, there is still some confusion as to the interpretation of this standard.

In the past, CMS did not allow two Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) supplier numbers to occupy the same

location. If you wanted to share space with a physician, for example, that physician could not have a DMEPOS supplier number. If the physician had a supplier number, you could share space only if it was divided into a separate suite, recognized by the U.S. Postal Service, with separate staff, making it a separate location in the eyes of CMS.

AOPA believes, but has not yet been able to confirm, that this new standard simply formalizes this prohibition. It states, in part, that a supplier “is prohibited from sharing a practice location with any other Medicare supplier or provider.”

Medicare defines “Medicare supplier” as anyone providing DMEPOS services and defines “provider” as facilities covered

by Part A. This would seem to mean that an O&P facility cannot co-locate with a physician who has a DMEPOS supplier number

Medicare defines “Medicare supplier” as anyone providing DMEPOS services and defines “provider” as facilities covered

by Part A.

(that is, a Medicare supplier) or with a Part A facility.

An exception to this prohibition exists in cases in which the DMEPOS supplier (in this case, the O&P facility) is owned by the Part A provider, operates as a separate unit, and meets all other supplier standards.

• Standard 30: This standard, which requires offices to be open for a minimum of 30 hours per week, carries an exemption for suppliers who provide custommade orthotics and/or prosthetics.

However, this exemption does not include pedorthists or mastectomy fitters operating independently from an O&P facility.

AOPA has requested more information on many of these standards and continues to publish new information as it is gathered. Depending on how forthcoming CMS has been with information, AOPA may have already asked for a delay in implementation of these changes. Check www.AOPAnet.org for updates. a

Kathy Dodson is AOPA’s senior director of government affairs.

Reach her at kdodson@ aopanet.org.

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

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Specialized

Foot Care Experts offer advice on treating three common—but painful—conditions

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

BY DEBORAH CONN

A

lthough solutions will differ, treatment of foot-related problems share two common requirements: Practitioners must understand their complexity, and they must maintain open communication with patients.

While some foot issues cause only temporary pain or discomfort, others are associated with or are the precursors to serious, long-term health conditions that threaten patents’ quality of life.

Providing care to these patients requires practitioners to not only recognize these conditions but also address the effects of prescribed orthotic care on patients’ overall health.

Here’s a look at three common conditions of the foot and how practitioners are treating them:

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

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Plantar Fasciitis More than 2 million Americans every year suffer from plantar fasciitis, a disorder that affects the tissue on the bottom of the foot. Small fractures and tears in this tissue—the plantar fascia—can become inflamed and create scar tissue. The result is often debilitating pain in the heel and arch areas of the foot.

“The symptoms usually reflect ‘first-step pain,’ when the patient feels the most pain with the first step after waking up in the morning or after sitting for awhile. When the foot isn’t bearing weight, it feels better, but as soon as you put weight on it, the muscle starts to lengthen and inflame again.” says Bill Meanwell, C.Ped, and founder of the International School of Pedorthics in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Meanwell, who has worked with elite athletes and served in the 2004 Olympic Village in Athens, offers precertification and continuing education classes in pedorthics throughout the country.

Typically, plantar fasciitis affects people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. “We find that the younger population, adolescents and young adults, have it more acutely, for a week or two, and then they’re okay,” says Ryan Chang, PhD, C.Ped, and director of research and development at Vancouver’s Kintec. “But people middle-aged and older are more likely to have a more chronic problem.” The condition can result from a number of factors, according to Chang, and clinicians must understand each patient to provide appropriate treatment. One patient may have biomechanical issues, while another may simply spend too many hours on his feet.

One of the main causes of plantar fasciitis is tightness in the gastrocnemius, or calf muscle, according to Meanwell. “The older we get, the tighter we get,” he says. “And as a society we do very little stretching of the muscles.” When the gastrocnemius is too tight, it can cause equinus deformity, where the foot bends downward at the ankle in an

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

abnormal plantarflexed position, or overpronation, where the foot rolls inward at the ankle. Pronation also can result from flat feet or even, says Meanwell, hypermobile feet, which have too much flexibility.

He notes that changes in a pregnant woman’s body, specifically the adjustment of her hips to a more open position to facilitate childbirth, can put extra demand on the feet and lead to plantar fasciitis.

“

and rear foot eversion lets us know there is more deformation of the plantar fascia; it stretches out more.

And that’s what we think causes the condition: tissue becoming overly stretched.”

Clinicians have a range of treatments for the condition, ranging from non-invasive to surgical solutions.

The first step is to define the cause.

If, as is often the case, a tight gastrocnemius is a contributor, physical

IN MY OPINION, PT COMES FIRST. ONCE YOU ACHIEVE A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF MOVEMENT, IT MAY BE THAT STRETCHING ALONE

AND A GOOD QUALITY PAIR OF SHOES WILL TAKE CARE OF [PLANTAR FASCIITIS].

”

—BILL MEANWELL, C.PED Recent research by Chang examined whether plantar fasciitis feet are mechanically different from healthy feet. “In our studies, we found they were,” he says. “For instance, during barefoot walking, plantar fasciitis feet exhibited a greater degree of flattening of the arch as well as greater rear foot eversion (the movement of the sole of the foot away from the median plane), a measure of overpronation. We also found that people with chronic plantar fasciitis exhibited atrophy of the intrinsic foot muscles (those inside the feet). Those muscles became smaller; they have lost the active support provided by the muscles of the foot.”

Chang notes that the relationship between muscle atrophy and plantar fasciitis is associative, not necessarily one of cause and effect. “We know these muscles help support the foot. The greater degree of flattening

therapy is essential to elongate the muscles in the calf and foot, according to Meanwell.

Such devices as a night splint or Strassburg sock, both of which hold the foot and toes in a flexed, or elongated position, can augment physical therapy. “Neither will eliminate problems on their own, but they are helpful,” says Meanwell.

Some clinicians may use Low Dye strapping, which tapes the foot to hold it in the proper position. In other cases, icing the foot or taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) can help reduce inflammation.

More invasive approaches include corticosteroid or botox injections and even surgery to lengthen the plantar fascia or the calf muscles. “These are appropriate in some situations, but they are not a substitute for physical therapy,” says Meanwell. “In my opinion, PT comes first. Once

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you achieve a certain amount of movement, it may be that stretching alone and a good quality pair of shoes will take care of it. If not, patients may have to resort to more invasive approaches.”

After physical therapy and other treatments that address stretching the muscles, Meanwell strongly urges the use of foot orthotics. “Every single person [with plantar fasciitis] who wears an over-the-counter shoe needs something to fill the void between the footbed of the shoe and the bottom of their foot,” he says. “That can be anything from a simple arch cookie to a full-blown custom foot orthotic.

“In my estimation, 85 percent of the population can do extremely well with a custom-fit over-the-counter insert.

From there, if you start to address the unique needs of the last 15 percent, some of those may require a custom product to address the unique needs of each foot.”

“

PEDORTHISTS MUST CAREFULLY EXAMINE THE FOOT AND DOCUMENT WHAT THEY SEE.

— CORDELL ATKINS, PT, DPT, CWS, CDE, C.PED

Technology is making it possible to take a far closer look. With improvements in camera resolution and computational power that have occurred over the past few years, scientists are just getting to the point where they can examine the movements of the small bones in the foot. And the more they discover about plantar fasciitis, the more effective treatment can be.

Diabetic Foot

As with any disorder, it is more effective to prevent plantar fasciitis than to treat it. Avoiding serious weight gain, doing stretching exercises of the foot and calf, and wearing shoes with good support or orthotic inserts are all ways to help protect against the condition.

As common as the disorder is, scientists and clinicians are still learning about what causes it and how best to treat it. “We don’t know a lot about the biomechanics of this problem,” says Chang. “The foot is an intricate system.”

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

”

While foot problems like plantar fasciitis manifest by causing pain, it is the lack of pain that signals one of the most common and pernicious conditions of the foot: diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This can occur as diabetes progresses, and it is the most common cause of serious foot conditions. As many as 26 million Americans suffer from diabetes, and the number is growing.

Without sensation in their feet, individuals are unaware of rubbing footwear, dangerous pressure points, or even stones in their shoes. The results can be ulceration and infection.

Diabetes also can reduce oil and moisture in the feet, causing dry, cracked skin at greater risk of infection.

Pedorthists who fit orthotics or custom-made shoes must use extra care when treating patients with diabetes, says Cordell “Corky” Atkins, PT, DPT, CWS, CDE, C.Ped, who manages the Intermountain Diabetic Foot Clinic in Salt Lake City. Follow-up visits are

essential to ensure that footwear fits appropriately and is being used correctly.

Once the patient receives an orthotic insert or footwear, Atkins asks that they return in a few days so he can re-examine the foot. “I want to make sure the cumulative pressure of walking hasn’t caused any skin breakdown,” he says.

“Pedorthists must carefully examine the foot and document what they see,” he says. “If a patient has a callus, the patient should have the callus removed before an impression or a mold is made.” Atkins encourages patients with diabetes, particularly those with impaired vision and lacking protective sensation, to have professionals care for their feet, such as removing calluses. If lesions or sores are present, the pedorthist should refer the patient back to their physician for the appropriate care.

Pedorthic care of the prevention of diabetic foot ulcers involves designing footwear that takes pressure off the afflicted area so it can heal. A common and very effective technique for treating diabetic plantar ulcers uses a molded and minimally padded cast (total contact cast) that maintains contact with the entire sole of the foot and the lower leg. But because the cast is cumbersome, and because neuropathic patients often lack the sensation of pain to reduce pressure on the ulcer, patient compliance can be a challenge.

One of the most important services a pedorthist can provide to patients is education. Individuals with diabetes

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— MARGARET MITCHEL, C.PED

need to check their own feet several times a day, to break in new shoes very gradually, and to examine their footwear frequently for foreign objects.

They must be aware of warning signs such as corns, calluses, red spots, and blisters, and seek medical attention immediately if these appear.

Of course, the most effective approach to diabetic foot problems is to control the disease in the first place, and patient education focuses on proper diet and use of medication. “All of us—patients and pedorthists—must be vigilant,” says Atkins.

Raynaud’s Disease When Margaret “Peg” Mitchel, C.Ped, developed Raynaud’s Disease, it took a long time to find a diagnosis.

Mitchel, who works at Advanced Medical Supply based in Duncan, Oklahoma, would like to raise awareness of the disease. Because Raynaud’s often strikes the toes, she believes that C.Peds are in the forefront to recognize the condition.

Yet too many practitioners are unfamiliar with it.

Raynaud’s Disease is a disorder of the small blood vessels of the extremities; particularly the fingers and toes. Symptoms appear in response to cold or, according to some research, strong emotions. Initially, as a result of vasoconstriction, digits turn white as blood stops flowing to the extremities.

24

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

During this stage, people often experience debilitating pain, tingling, or numbness. During the second phase, called cyanosis, the affected area may first take on a blue or purple color as unoxygenated blood pools in the distal portion of the digits. As the vessels refill with oxygenated blood, the digits can become warm and red, with painful throbbing and swelling.

In more severe cases, the skin on the tips of the fingers or toes can peel away, and some people are prone to ulcerations there. Nails can become thin and papery if the condition persists for several years. In rare cases, particularly when there are underlying complications, individuals can develop gangrene and lose toes or fingers.

Raynaud’s can be a primary condition, appearing on its own. It also can be secondary to such auto-immune, connective tissue disorders as lupus, scleroderma, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Secondary Raynaud’s, also called Raynaud’s Syndrome, is usually more serious than the primary condition and

can cause more long-term damage to the skin and vessels at the cellular level.

Treatment depends on the severity of the problem. Primary Raynaud’s sufferers can use such non-invasive treatments as battery-heated socks and gloves or biofeedback. Mitchel takes niacin twice a day during winter months and believes that nutritional supplements such as magnesium and antioxidants also can be helpful.

“Consuming a lot of ginger, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and garlic can help stimulate circulation, as can ginko biloba,” she says. Patients should avoid caffeine and smoking, as both can constrict blood vessels.

In more serious cases, doctors may prescribe a calcium channel blocker to help dilate the vessels, or serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

When toes are particularly painful, a C.Ped may recommend open-toed sandals with a wool or diabetic sock.

“We can also offload the insole by cutting out a layer of the insert under the toes for the digit to rest in,” says Mitchel.

“The most important thing is for us to recognize this disease,” she says. Raynaud’s can be mistaken for some other conditions, like frostbite, chilblains, or trench foot. Other vascular conditions also can manifest like Raynaud’s.

Mitchel suggests asking a series of questions in order to help identify the disease, particularly if patients are not experiencing an attack at that moment. Does cold weather or stress cause numbness in your fingers or toes? Do they turn white? Do they take on a bluish hue and then turn red? Do they throb or tingle? How often do the attacks occur? How long do they last?

“When it comes to the foot, people see us first,” says Mitchel. “We need to accurately recognize this condition so we can refer them to a rheumatologist or vascular doctor if the condition has not been medically addressed.” a Deborah Conn is a contributing writer for O&P Almanac. Reach her at debconn@cox.net.

Touching the Future—

TODAY

26

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

BY KIM FERNANDEZ

O&P ‘Office of Tomorrow’ helps participants envision and embrace technologies to keep them competitive

I

magine an office where patients walk on a special piece of carpet and within minutes, their O&P practitioner has a perfect analysis of their gait and all the information needed to fit the perfect device.

Imagine an office that uses practice management software to keep track of appointments, integrate with off-site fabricators, record patient progress, and handle reimbursements and insurance, and then seamlessly merge disparate information into organized, logical records for individual patients and the practice as a whole.

Think what it would be like to use computer-aided design (CAD) software to design a device for a patient and send it to a fabricator at the push of a button, freeing up the orthotics and prosthetics practitioners to work with more patients instead of making devices by hand.

Consider an office that makes the most of technology to make everyday operations simpler, keeping track of everything from appointment times to reminder calls to the minute details of prescriptions, earning back its initial investment time after time.

Medical professionals from physicians to veterinarians are moving toward this kind of office, and now, thanks to a display at the 2010 AOPA National Assembly, more O&P practitioners can imagine themselves doing the same—and taking concrete steps to make the vision a reality.

Enhancing the Office This year’s AOPA National Assembly included a fully equipped, walk-through Office of Tomorrow display that combined technology, software, and equipment with the ideal layout for a highly productive practice.

The result was an office that makes the most of all the tools and resources available to practitioners and technicians, freeing them to do their jobs as expertly and efficiently as possible. Attendees had the unique opportunity to experience integrated technologies operating exactly as their designers envisioned—and the way the AOPA Office of Tomorrow workgroup hopes practitioners will actually use them in the near future.

“We need to adopt this sort of technology more aggressively,” says workgroup member and AOPA President James Kaiser, CP, and CEO of Scheck & Siress in Chicago. “Together, this allows care to be provided by a qualified person, but the least-qualified person and not the most-qualified person. And it’s what’s coming down the pike.”

While last year’s display focused on the extended-care model, this year’s Office of Tomorrow allowed participants to walk through a full-sized office that included everything from computers and desks to traditional equipment such as exam tables, ramps, parallel bars, treadmills, routers, and drill presses. On the

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

27

new technology side, it had displays showcasing practice management software, gait analysis equipment and software, and CAD scanners and equipment. Practitioners should adopt this sort of equipment and technology in the next several years, say organizers, just to stay competitive.

“I’m hopeful that seeing it in an office environment may have provoked some thought.”

—KEL BERGMANN, CPO “CAD has been lingering in our field for many years but has never quite taken off,” says Kaiser. “It’s time to link the CAD process with outside central fabrication services. And that’s nothing new—it evolved in the dental industry

28

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

years ago. Dentists used to make entire dentures themselves. Now, they do an impression that’s sent out, the device is made and returned, and the dentist puts it in place and adjusts it.”

That, he says, is what’s going to help practitioners stay competitive in an era of reduced reimbursements and greater competition from outside companies.

Improving Practice Having the setup live at the conference opened a lot of eyes, says Kel Bergmann, CPO, managing principal of SCOPe Orthotics & Prosthetics in San Diego, and a workgroup participant.

“Some people were seeing things for the first time, and they weren’t aware people were able to do these things,” he says, citing the use of practice management software to interface with distributors as an example. “The scanning technology has been out there for a few years, but people continue to do things the way they’ve always done things. I’m hopeful that seeing it in an office environment may have provoked some thought.”

Being able to walk through the display office also may have convinced people they need to plan to integrate all the new technology and started them thinking about the best ways to do that.

“More and more people are embracing the technologies,” Bergmann says. “The technology in and of itself is great, but you need a plan to really embrace it. You can’t just buy the latest scanning system or practice management software and set it up and have it print dollars. You need an internal roadmap.

“You have to understand your present processing and look to technology solutions in terms of how they can help improve and speed up those steps. How can you eliminate some steps? We thought it would be nice to show the steps required to make all this successful, and I hope people looked at the technology and thought how it could be a benefit to them, and not just how they could run out and buy it without understanding how it works.”

Rennie Terbogt, Canadian distributor of GAITRite system, staffed the display. Having gait analysis set up and working helped visitors understand why it may be the wave of the future, he says.

“A prosthetist can have a technician out in the field walking a patient at a remote site and still be able to be involved directly in observing his gait and collecting evidence with this kind of technology,” says Terbogt. What’s more, using an impartial computer to gather information about gait can

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greatly improve that patient’s care.

“A study a few years ago had four or five clinicians gathered together observing a patient,” he says. “All of them saw different things.” That’s human nature—and it’s that sort of non-uniform diagnosis that software and equipment may eliminate when more practitioners embrace automated tools, he says.

The software also makes life simpler for the office staff. “The data is electronically placed into a file and generates reports to send to the doctor, the insurance company, the HMO, whomever,” Terbogt says. “It gives everyone evidence of where this patient was at this specific day and time.”

“We need to move from the manufacturing age to the technological age.”

—JAMES KAISER, CP

It also allows the patients to take that information with them. “There’s a USB, SmartCard, or Web site where you go in with a password and get that medical information,” he says. “No matter where that patient goes, the information stays with him.”

Embracing Technology “We’re changing as an industry, just like everybody else,” says Bergmann.

“Health care is under tremendous pressure to modernize its technology, and reimbursement is under constant compression. We’re going to have reimbursement lowered by Medicare by 1 percent, and that’s coming up pretty quickly. That can be offset by efficiencies we get by using these new systems. If people don’t find a way to be more efficient, we’re going to keep chipping away at the bottom line.

30

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

Pretty soon, nothing is going to be left.”

Kaiser agrees: “We’ve not been very innovative in this sense,” he says. “It’s all been in practice in other professions for many years.

We need to adopt it more aggressively.”

Many times, says Kaiser, the willingness to consider new software and equipment follows generational lines, as in most industries.

“If you talk to practitioners who are 45 or 50, they’re going to assume to some degree that they have to be more hands-on and do everything themselves,” he says. “They want to handle and control their own fabrication. If you look at practitioners who are just coming out of school up to about age 40, they definitely have some technology skills and experience doing some of these things by computer.

Individuals aren’t trained now, as I was back in 1976, to do much fabrication. They’re trained on evaluation and diagnostic criteria when dealing with patients, and assessment. They’re much more understanding of the fact that they can take a mold or measurements and send it out to have someone else make the device.”

Changes in the way new practitioners are educated also will help speed the pace of evolution in the industry, and that Kaiser is surprised

CAD and other technologies haven’t been more readily embraced by now.

“It’s a transition,” he says. “CAD is not fully integrated into orthotics and prosthetics, but it’s really surprising to me that our schools are just now beginning to embrace computer-aided design in their educational programs.

Certainly as our educational programs step up from bachelor’s degree requirements to master’s degrees, that will step up tremendously. And that’s what we need. We need to move from the manufacturing age to the technological age.”

He says many people aren’t aware that such a system is no longer the massive investment it was even 10 years ago.

“In the early 90s, you had to buy an entire CAD suite,” he says. “You needed hardware, you needed a server, you needed all this equipment. There weren’t central fabrication options that let you send the designed shapes to someone else to make. Today, there are options. People can get into the technology at any level. You can just get the application and do the design

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or modification and send everything off and have it made. There are various stages where people can affordably get into CAD.” The “Office” display demonstrated to participants these central fabrication options in a concrete way, he points out.

“All of the things we listed were there, from gait analysis and up-front administrative applications to scanners, CAD systems, and links to central fabrication. We could have done a better job of staffing it and walking people through to explain the concepts better, but those who did go through felt it was very impressive.”

32

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

While there are no plans to set up a virtual office at the next two AOPA conferences, Bergmann and Kaiser say the workgroup will move forward and may present a similar display in a few years.

“We will continue to look at different, more diverse services or applications that are available to integrate into O&P practices,” says Kaiser. “We need to make people aware, first of all.”

“I anticipate trying to evolve this project,” says Bergmann. “I think we’ll try to get people to think about a

different level of care, with a certified practitioner overseeing someone else who does a lot of the repetitive tasks— that can be taught. We’ve evolved from the care extender model to the ideal office of tomorrow, and we’ll try to evolve more and give people the tools they can use to modernize their practices.” a Kim Fernandez is a contributing writer to O&P Almanac. Reach her at kim@ kimfernandez.com.

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Challenging the Status Quo AOPA’s 2010 National Assembly arms today’s professional with the tools to conquer tomorrow

M

arked by change and uncertainty, 2010 has been a year full of special challenges for AOPA members and the industry. As that trend continues in 2011, practitioners and facility owners must be prepared not only to survive a rapidly changing landscape, but also to build a competitive advantage.

At the AOPA 2010 National Assembly, held September 29-October 2 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, adaptability and forward thinking were the themes of the event.

From keynote speakers who encouraged new thought processes to cutting-edge suppliers showcasing the latest products to improve patient care, nearly 2,000 attendees heard from O&P innovators and experts on the importance of flexible business practices in the years ahead.

Specifically, a large portion of the event focused on preparing O&P professionals for new business models, regulations, and technology that will soon be industry realities.

Stimulating Speakers With the message of “how you see is what you get,” keynote speaker Warren Macdonald explained to attendees that change—even when it seems overwhelming—brings opportunity, provided you have the mindset to recognize it.

Macdonald’s expertise in change management is personal: As a result of a terrifying hiking accident, he became a bilateral above the knee amputee. But as a result of his resilience and ability to adjust his expectations, he became the first person with his disability to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro.

The human mind and spirit is much more 34

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

powerful than we realize, he told listeners. People are able to create their own realities based on how they perceive the situation. The key is to be adaptable and to focus on the individual steps and tools needed— rather than dwelling only on the end result—to achieve your goals. For Macdonald, that meant re-evaluating his full-length prosthetics and realizing that he could more easily climb Kilimanjaro with modified “stubbies” and shortened crutches. For business managers, that might mean thinking outside the box to find new possibilities during times of adversity.

Being adaptable also means being able to adjust employee management styles that are no longer effective,

emerging technologies will enable business efficiency, change educational standards, and forever transform O&P patient care. While describing how these innovations will revolutionize the business, speakers also addressed considerations for smaller facilities that will ultimately need to implement these technologies to stay competitive: Do facilities have dedicated staff and financial resources? Do they have a clear plan for trials and evaluation? And once they’ve decided that a technology is appropriate for their business, how do they train staff and market to patients?

Planning now for inevitable technology upgrades is crucial to creating a competitive advantage later, speakers noted.

2010 AOPA Award Winners Thranhardt Lecture Series Andreas Kannenberg, MD, PhD; Maria Gerschutz, PhD AOPA Lifetime Achievement Award Ivan Sabel, CPO First Annual Sam E. Hamontree, CP, Business Education Award Brian Gustin, CP Ralph R. “Ronney” Snell, CPO, FAAOP, Legislative Advocacy Award Rick Fleetwood, MPA

according to Bruce Tulgan, who also was a keynote speaker. Consider the veteran facility owner who has hired a new college graduate and struggles to understand why his new employee isn’t content to labor quietly in the hopes of future reward and promotion as he once did. Tulgan explains that younger workers have had dramatically different life experiences shape their perceptions and expectations of working life. So managers, too, must look beyond their own experiences and adjust their leadership styles in order to attract and retain the young talent needed to keep their businesses growing.

Another well-attended session featured five forward-thinking industry experts who explained how

Similarly, the changes brought on by health-care reform require practitioners to start preparing sooner rather than later.

John Markus, JD, of Balch & Bingham in Birmingham and former executive at HealthSouth led audience members through an overview of the new law and offered insights on its potential impact on the industry. In particular, he discussed the goals and scope of reform, the private market, as well as O&P-specific concerns such as productivity-related reimbursements and the medical device tax. The biggest positives to come from the law include expansion of coverage to more than 30 million Americans, a reduction of cost and coverage obstacles for people with disabilities, and an emphasis on outcomes improvement and patientcentered care.

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

35

Hands-On Activities Aside from educational sessions— ranging from diabetic foot care to body-powered upper limb prosthetics—new learning also came from hands-on demonstrations in the exhibit hall. ABC- and BOC-certified practitioners earned continuingeducation credits by visiting the booths and testing out some of the industry’s most cutting-edge products.

The exhibit hall also hosted various manufacturers’ product preview sessions as well as practitioners’ poster demonstrations.

For a second consecutive year, expo visitors also could experience a walk-though prototype of the Office of Tomorrow. Unlike last year’s display, which focused on the care-extender model, this year’s exhibit showcased the technologies and equipment needed for facilities to stay competitive in the next several years. Nineteen companies donated everything from commonly used equipment such as computers, desks, exam tables, and treadmills, to more recent technology advances such as practice management software, gait analysis equipment, and computer-aided design scanners.

Touring the physical layout helped attendees visualize—and hopefully soon embrace—the office concept AOPA introduced at the 2008 general business meeting in Chicago. (Read more about the Office of Tomorrow on page 26.)

To relax and unwind after the thought-provoking sessions and expo hall visits, attendees also had plenty of opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and form new relationships.

The Fall Thranhardt Golf Tournament kicked off the special 36

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

events with more than 70 golfers hitting the links at the Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Club. It was one of O&P’s largest and most successful golf outings to date. Later that evening, attendees got a sneak peek of the exhibit hall while enjoying margaritas and live music.

At the third annual O&P PAC Wine Tasting and Auction, supporters raised more than $27,000 for the O&P Political Action Committee and Capitol Connection—the educational arm of AOPA’s legislative advocacy.

AOPA Board of Directors member Anita Liberman-Lampear and her husband, Alan, auctioned off more than 40 lots of wine—both domestic and international—and wine-related accessories.

Attendees also got into the excitement of the “Prize is Right” giveaway, which also raised money for the O&P PAC. One lucky attendee— AOPA member Robert Leaber III, CPO, Adaptive Prosthetics & Orthotics in Houma, Louisiana—took home $10,000. Chris Snell collected a $500 prize, and Kimberly Linton won the $100 consolation prize. Harry Layton, CPO, was runner-up.

Other activities included a tour of the Kennedy Space Center, a pool party reception hosted by the OPGA, and an exhibitor-sponsored exhibit hall happy hour. On Friday, Assembly attendees and guests were invited to take a night on the town at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk—the perfect venue for participants to reflect on this year’s event and get excited about next year’s National Assembly, September 19-22, at the Mirage Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. a

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Vorum Research Corporation Vancouver, BC 800/461-4353 www.vorum.com

DIABETIC AND EXTRA-DEPTH FOOTWEAR ACOR Orthopaedic Inc 18530 S Miles Pkwy Cleveland, OH 44128 800/237-2267 www.acor.com Acor continues to offer its own brand of X-Static® silver lined shoes, but now we have increased our Diabetic and Extra-Depth Footwear choices with the addition of the Drew and OrthoFeet brands. This expanded line offers athletic shoes, casual walking shoes, and the popular Mary Jane styles in widths from Narrow to 6E Extra Wide. See our catalog for over 260 shoes from Acor, Drew, and OrthoFeet, as well as Acor’s extensive line of foot orthotics. Acor is one-stop shopping for all of your footwear needs.

Costa Mesa, CA 949/645-4401 www.kingsleymfg.com

Lawson Medical LLC Virginia Beach, VA 866/631-6311

Levy & Rappel Saddle Brook, NJ 800/564-5389 www.levyandrappel.com

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

CUSTOM FOOTWEAR

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

Footwear

P.W. Minor

Batavia, NY 800/333-4067 www.pwminor.com

Acor “For Every Walk of Life™”

Aetrex Worldwide Inc. Teaneck, NJ 800/526-2739 www.foot.com

AliMed Inc. Dedham, MA 800/225-2610 www.alimed.com

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

41

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

Apis Footwear Co.

SoleTech Inc./Advance Footwear

El Monte, CA 888/937-2747 www.bignwideshoes.com

Salem, MA 800/225-2192 www.advancefootwear.com

Bio Prosthetic Orthotic Lab Inc. Ashburn, VA 703/726-4092

Branier Custom Molded Shoes Sebring, FL 877/524-0639 www.branier.com

Cascade Orthopedic Supply Inc. Chico, CA 800/888-0865 www.cascade-usa.com

CrocsRx Niwot, CO 303/848-7399 www.crocsrx.com

Dr. Comfort Mequon, WI 800/556-5572 www.drcomfortdpm.com

SPS Alpharetta, GA 800/767-7776 extension 3 www.spsco.com

Answer 2 Shoes The complete line of Answer 2 shoes for Women, Men, Youth and Toddlers is contained in SPS’ new mini-catalog. The adorable new Mary Jane for girls has an extra long trimmable Velcro strap. A new handsome lace tie oxford for boys incorporates an extended larger throat to facilitate easier entry. Answer 2 shoes are designed to provide extra support at the ankle, added width at the toe and extra girth at the ankle. Symmetrical straight last and symmetrical cut lines allows easier sole modifications. All designs accommodate an AFO. Contact SPS Customer Service at 800/767-7776 extension 3 for your copy today.

Freeman Manufacturing Co. Sturgis, MI 269/651-2371 www.freemanmfg.com

DYCOR

RENEWING INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLES K1A "K Series" Feet

Kingsley Manufacturing Co. Costa Mesa, CA 949/645-4401 www.kingsleymfg.com

Knit-Rite Inc. Kansas City, KS 800/821-3094 www.knitrite.com

M.J. Markell Shoe Co. Inc. Yonkers, NY 914/963-2258 www.markellshoe.com

P.W. Minor

Engineered

Batavia, NY 800/333-4067 www.pwminor.com

Average weight of "K Series" feet is 7 oz. (including foot shell & titanium pyramid), Patent & Patent Pending.

for

Assisted

Transfer

Excellence.

Visit www.dycormfg.com for additional information and Keel deflection (weight) chart.

800-794-6099 42

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

CUT-4-CUSTOM A Simple Solution for SAME DAY

Custom Fabrication

Heat in 160° oven 5 minutes

Mold back to patient Heat to soften and mold front to patient

Custom TLSO or LSO in less than an hour!

View Video of Fabrication Process on www.allardusa.com

Use pre-attached straps to secure heated front to back

Check the fit

Finished LSO!

www.allardusa.com

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

Insoles ACOR Orthopaedic Inc 18530 S Miles Pkwy Cleveland, OH 44128 800/237-2267 www.acor.com

Aetrex Worldwide Inc. Teaneck, NJ 800/526-2739 www.foot.com

AliMed Inc. Dedham, MA 800/225-2610 www.alimed.com

ALPS St. Petersburg, FL 800/574-5426 www.easyliner.com

American Shoe Corp.

Mequon, WI 800/556-5572 www.drcomfortdpm.com

Euro International Inc. Tampa, FL 800/378-2480 www.eurointl.com

Ds Hallux Rigidus The DS Hallux RIgidus (4-9-0113) Orthotic protects the great toe in turf toe injuries and prevents it from bending. DS material is extremely strong, yet it is very lightweight and low profile. It features an acrylic resin matrix with vertical fibers, which gives it stability and a high energy return. The DS Hallux Rigidus can be heat molded several times, which saves you time and money in case you have to make a modification. It also does not require any special storage. Available in double sizes from 35/36 to 45/46. Call 800/378-2480 or visit www.eurointl.com for more details!

The Euroflex

Vancouver, WA 360/573-9100 www.amfit.com

The Euroflex 3/4 Orthotic (4-RY-100 & 4-RY-101) is a thin, lightweight orthotic which features a durable and effective design. Its polyester injected structure prevents breakage and gives enough flex throughout the arch to be comfortable, while still providing great support. The Euroflex is heat moldable and can be easily adjusted. It is available in double sizes from 35/36 to 46/47 and is available with or without met pad. Call 800/378-2480 or visit www.eurointl.com for more details.

Apis Footwear Co.

Euro Gel Convertible

El Monte, CA 888/937-2747 www.bignwideshoes.com

The Euro Gel Convertible (4-700222) is a unique, two part insole system which can be used together or separately. The top layer is an anti-bacterial microfiber and features a 2 mm layer of Esco Light Gel®. The bottom layer features a low-profile orthotic base with a thin (.5mm) layer of Technogel®. Both layers have an adhesive which remains sticky over time. The two layers can be used together to form an orthotic or the top layer can be used as a comfort orthotic by itself. They are available in sizes 36–48. Call 800/378-2480 or visit www.eurointl.com for more details.

Brooklyn, NY 866/620-7463 www.americancustomshoes.com

AMFIT Inc.

Bauerfiend USA Inc Kennesaw, GA 800/423-3405 www.bauerfeindusa.com

Branier Custom Molded Shoes Sebring, FL 877/524-0639 www.branier.com

Cascade Orthopedic Supply Inc. Chico, CA 800/888-0865 www.cascade-usa.com

44

Dr. Comfort

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

Extreme Cushion Liner & Sleeve

Providing more of what you want and need!

Extreme Advantage-Indicated for Transfemoral OR ACTIVE Transtibial amputees; Reduce on-hand inventory cost and space requirements through application on either TT or TF amputees.

Extreme Contact-- 80% Less Vertical Stretch As compared to other Alps gel liners, resulting in demonstratively increased contact while stabilizing movement of redundant tissue.

Extreme Suspension-New GripGEL™ is more tactile than EZGel to gently but firmly support the residual limb and sensitive tissues.

Extreme Versatility-Alps New Extreme Cushion Liner has limited vertical stretch to reduce movement of redundant tissue. Use appropriate for TT or TF applications.

Cushion liner available in 3 mm or 6mm Uniform profile to fit circumferences ranging from 1653 cm. Sleeve available in 3mm or 6mm in sizes 20 - 70 cm.

Alps New Extreme Sleeve seals against the skin without restricting circulation or causing shear forces. ALPS GripGel helps prevent the sleeve from rolling down the patient’s limb.

800.574.5426 www.easyliner.com info@easyliner.com

NOW IN STOCK: © 2009 ALPS. All Rights Reserved.

Experience Our Commitment

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

The Fillauer Companies

Cleveland, OH 800/321-1264 www.pelsupply.com

Preformed TFC Foot Orthotics:

Hapad Products from PEL Supply

Fillauer is proud to introduce Preformed TFC Foot Orthotics: • Pre-formed for better fit on heel • ¾ length • May be easily adjusted • Remoldable Carbon Composite • Extremely durable and tough • May be easily customized to a patient’s model • Available in 5 sizes For more information contact customer service at 800/251-6398 or visit our website at www.fillauer.com.

Freeman Manufacturing Co. Sturgis, MI 269/651-2371 www.freemanmfg.com

JMS Plastic Supply Neptune, NJ 800/342-2602 www.jmsplastics.com

Kingsley Manufacturing Co. Costa Mesa, CA 949/645-4401 www.kingsleymfg.com

Knit-Rite Inc. Kansas City, KS 800/821-3094 www.knitrite.com

Lawson Medical LLC Virginia Beach, VA 866/631-6311

Levy & Rappel Saddle Brook, NJ 800/564-5389 www.levyandrappel.com

M.J. Markell Shoe Co. Inc. Yonkers, NY 914/963-2258 www.markellshoe.com

P.W. Minor Batavia, NY 800/333-4067 www.pwminor.com 46

PEL Supply Co.

Chattanooga, TN 800/251-6398 www.fillauercompanies.com

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

PEL Supply now offers the full-line of best-selling Hapad 100% natural wool felt soft orthotics and sports insoles.

Hapad soft orthotics are a medically designed, proven effective, affordable alternative to custom orthotics and “quick-fix” remedies. These unique, patented foot cushions give firm support and establish proper alignment of the foot so the wearer can enjoy total comfort while standing, walking or running.

Manufactured from only the highest quality materials. Hapad products are resilient and long lasting... yet very affordable. In fact, Hapad products are usually less expensive than comparable foam insoles.

Best-sellers from Hapad include: • Medial/Lateral Heel Pads • Tongue Cushions • Longitudinal Metatarsal Arch Pads • Metatarsal Pads • Dancer Pads • Wool Shoe Liners For more information on the full line of Hapad products—contact any helpful PEL customer service specialist at 800/321-1264, by fax 800/222-6176, or e-mail customerservice@pelsupply.com. Registered users can order online at www.pelsupply.com.

Silipos Inc. Niagara Falls, NY 800/229-4404 www.silipos.com

SoleTech Inc./Advance Footwear Salem, MA 800/225-2192 www.advancefootwear.com

SPS Alpharetta, GA 800/767-7776 extension 3 www.spsco.com

Vorum Research Corporation Vancouver, BC 800/461-4353 www.vorum.com

CORE-SPUN SUPPORT SOCKS

“FINALLY, COMPRESSION I CAN WEAR!” Core-Spun Support Socks for men and women look and feel like a soft, comfortable everyday sock with the added benefit of true gradient compression. The ultra stretchy yarns make the socks easier to put on and the added thickness makes the socks more comfortable for all-day wear.

A SUPPORT SOCK THAT IS ESIER TO PUT ON THAN TRADITIONAL COMPRESSION GARMENTS With reasons ranging from limited mobility or dexterity to complaints about overall general comfort, many individuals struggle with donning or wanting to wear their compression garments every day.

Core-Spun by THERAFIRM® Support Socks

Core-Spun by Therafirm® gradient compression socks, a patent pending innovation by Therafirm®, are made with the unique technology of core-spun yarns. These yarns are made using a process of twisting fibers around an inner fiber creating one yarn that enhances stretch, as well as strength and durability. Couple this technology with true gradient compression and the result is an ultra stretchy compression garment that is easier to put on and exceptionally comfortable.

WHAT PROVIDERS AND PATIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT CORE-SPUN BY THERAFIRM I know that compression garments can be difficult for my patients to don themselves. Many openly admit they have not worn the garments when I visit with them at follow-up appointments. I am so pleased to have seen an increase in patient compliance since I started recommending Core-Spun

by Therafirm.

My mother has had to wear support hose since 1979, and she has always hated them because they were ugly, uncomfortable, hard to get on. Her provider started carrying your Core-Spun socks a couple of months ago and I got her a pair to try out. She liked them so much that I got her two more pair the next week. They are great!! They are comfortable, easy for her to put on -- and they work! Thank you for making such a great product!

I wanted to tell you about my experience with Core-spun compression socks. It used to feel like you were putting a 100 pound leg in a 20 pound sock with other compression socks. They were impossible to get on and to pull them up. Core-spun are much different, they stretch more, so they are much easier to get on. I'm so glad that someone told me about them. They are the BEST thing that happened to compression socks!

For more information contact Knit-Rite at 800-821-3094 or e-mail customerservice@knitrite.com.

Also distributed by:

CONNECT WITH US ON THE WEB!

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

Lower-Limb Devices and Orthoses ACOR Orthopaedic Inc 18530 S Miles Pkwy Cleveland, OH 44128 800/237-2267 www.acor.com

AliMed Inc. Dedham, MA 800/225-2610 www.alimed.com

Allard USA Inc. Rockaway, NJ 888/678-6548 www.allardusa.com

American Shoe Corp.

Brooklyn, NY 866/620-7463 www.americancustomshoes.com

Anatomical Concepts Inc. Poland, OH 800/837-3888 www.anatomicalconceptsinc.com

Arizona AFO Mesa, AZ 877/780-8382 www.arizonaafo.com

Becker Orthopedic Appliance Co. Troy, MI 248/588-7480 www.beckerorthopedic.com

Bio Prosthetic Orthotic Lab Inc. Ashburn, VA 703/726-4092

Boston Brace International Inc. Avon, MA 800/262-2235 www.bostonbrace.com

48

Cascade Dafo Inc. Ferndale, WA 800/848-7332 www.cascadedafo.com Cascade Dafo Inc., is the leader in design, innovation and manufacture of dynamic ankle-foot orthoses. Cascade introduced the first DAFO® (Dynamic Ankle Foot Orthoses) more than 25 years ago. Cascade Dafo’s products are primarily geared toward pediatric patients, most of whom have neuromuscular challenges, but many adults also benefit from the innovative designs. Cascade Dafo believes better mobility gives children and adults a wider range of experiences, greater success in their activities and more control over their lives. To that end, Cascade Dafo is committed to providing and supporting the most effective, accessible and reasonably priced orthoses. Call 800/848-7332 or visit www.cascadedafo.com.

College Park Industries Inc. Fraser, MI 800/728-7950 www.college-park.com

College Park Trustep®—An American Original Trustep® wearers experience unsurpassed comfort and natural-feeling mobility in their daily activities. The Trustep® is carefully and concisely crafted to offer nearly the same vertical motion, rotation and balance as an anatomical foot. This range of motion allows for a natural gait and optimal performance on any terrain.

Key features include: • Polycentric design provides advanced stance phase control and facilitates independent heel & toe adjustment • Superior range of motion for the most natural gait pattern available today • True multi-axial function with transverse rotation for optimum terrain compliance • Shock absorbing cushioning provides a smooth, controlled stride • Same-day, custom built to order For more information, call 800/728-7950 or visit www. college-park.com.

Cascade Orthopedic Supply Inc.

DeRoyal Industries Inc.

Chico, CA 800/888-0865 www.cascade-usa.com

Powell, TN 800/251-9864 www.deroyal.com

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

Orthomerica Products, Inc

Freeman Manufacturing Co.

Knit-Rite Inc.

Orthomerica® Products Inc. is pleased to introduce the Spectrum™ AFO product line. Our innovative designs have been tested and refined in several high volume orthotic centers of excellence. The resulting high-quality custom AFOs, synthetic and leather gauntlets offer optimal fit and are less expensive in today’s ultra cost-conscious environment. Spectrum™ AFO Products: • Leather Gauntlet—top quality leather work translates to patient comfort.

• Synthetic Gauntlet—virtually indestructible, easily washed water-proof material serves as an alternative for those allergic to leather.

• Three Styles of Mid-Calf AFOs—Split Upright, DorsiAssist and Free Motion Call Orthomerica at 877/737-8444 or visit www.orthomerica.com.

Kansas City, KS 800/821-3094 www.knitrite.com

Össur Americas Inc.

Chattanooga, TN 800/251-6398 www.fillauercompanies.com

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

The Fillauer Companies

Sturgis, MI 269/651-2371 www.freemanmfg.com

Friddle’s Orthopedic Appliances Honea Path, SC 800/528-9339 www.friddles.com

Hely & Weber Santa Paula, CA 800/221-5465 www.hely-weber.com

Kingsley Manufacturing Co. Costa Mesa, CA 949/645-4401 www.kingsleymfg.com

MD Orthopaedics Wayland, IA 877/766-7384 www.mdorthopaedics.com

Med Spec (ASO) Charlotte, NC 800/582-4040 www.medspec.com

Medequip Inc. San Juan Capistrano, CA 949/443-4414

M.J. Markell Shoe Co. Inc. Yonkers, NY 914/963-2258 www.markellshoe.com

New Options Sports Dallas, TX 800/872-5488 www.newoptionssports.com

OPTEC Lawrenceville, GA 888/982-8181 www.optecusa.com 50

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

Orlando, FL 877/737-8444 www.orthomerica.com

Foothill Ranch, CA 800/233-6263 www.ossur.com

OTS Corp.

Weaverville, NC 828/658-8330 www.ots-corp.com

Otto Bock HealthCare Plymouth, MN 800/328-4058 www.ottobockus.com

Otto Bock: Trace, Trim and Walk Away!

The new WalkOn® Trimable and the WalkOn® Flex AFO’s by Otto Bock HealthCare offer high quality with quick customization. You now have a choice of support coupled with the simplicity of shaping the footplate with a scissors, allowing you to deliver personalized solutions to your patients wherever they are. Providing a symmetrical and fluid gait pattern with a natural heel strike and good energy return, the new AFO’s also give your patients the additional benefit of encouraging outward rotation of the foot during heel strike. To learn more, contact your sales representative at 800/328-4058 or visit www.ottobockus.com.

Dijon Cedex, France 011/33-380-784-242 www.proteor.com

Special Offer—Darco WebBrace™ from PEL Supply

Restorative Care of America Inc.

The DARCO Web™ Ankle Brace is a true convertible ankle brace that provides unparalleled compression and can go from an acute brace to a sports support with a simple adjustment - no need to buy two braces. Available for same-day shipment from PEL Supply, the WebBrace offers these special features: • Bungee Closure provides superior compression and allows for onehanded adjustments on the run • Removable Medial and Lateral Stays are rigid enough to provide controlled restriction of inversion/eversion • Durable Ballistic Nylon Shell is breathable and molds to the foot for a comfortable fit • High Tech Spacer Material Padding wicks moisture away from foot • Universal Fit allows use on right or left ankle • Reimbursable under manufacturer’s suggested L-code 1906 • Buy 5 get 1 FREE from PEL! Use order code PC-DARF10 by November 24.

For more information on the WebBrace and the full line of Darco products—contact any helpful PEL customer service specialist at 800/321-1264, by fax 800/222-6176, or e-mail customerservice@pelsupply.com. Registered users can order online. Remember to use PEL Order Code PC-DARF10 for Buy 5 Get 1 FREE until November 24, 2010.

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

PROTEOR

Cleveland, OH 800/321-1264 www.pelsupply.com

St. Petersburg, FL 800/627-1595 www.rcai.com

Townsend Design Bakersfield, CA 661/837-1795 www.townsenddesign.com

Truform Orthotics and Prosthetics Cincinnati, OH 800/888-0458 www.truform-otc.com

Provel offers cost effective, fast, easy to use, and reliable O&P automation. The D2 digitizer, C5 carver, and T6 thermoformer are appropriate for small clinics as well as large central fab's.

AOP file compatible and backed by a two year warranty. The D2 digitizer allows automated shape capture of prosthetic casts with unmatched accuracy. The C5 carver is not only fast and precise, its self contained dust collection system is extremely quiet. The T6 thermoformer consistently produces high quality thermoplastic sockets from industry standard preforms.

For more information visit www.provel.us or call 509.857.2009.

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2010 2010 O&P O&P ALMANAC ALMANAC

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

PEL Supply Co.

51 51

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

Socks ACOR Orthopaedic Inc 18530 S Miles Pkwy Cleveland, OH 44128 800/237-2267 www.acor.com

Aetrex Worldwide Inc. Teaneck, NJ 800/526-2739 www.foot.com

AliMed Inc. Dedham, MA 800/225-2610 www.alimed.com

Apis Footwear Co. El Monte, CA 888/937-2747 www.bignwideshoes.com

Bauerfiend USA Inc Kennesaw, GA 800/423-3405 www.bauerfeindusa.com

Cascade Orthopedic Supply Inc. Chico, CA 800/888-0865 www.cascade-usa.com

Costa Mesa, CA 949/645-4401 www.kingsleymfg.com

Knit-Rite, Inc. Kansas City, KS 800/821-3094 www.knitrite.com

SmartKnit® Seamless Socks SmartKnit® Seamles Socks are ideal for diabetic, arthritic and sensitive feet. Core-spun, high-stretch fibers HUG your feet comfortably like a protective second skin reducing risks from wrinkling and bunching. Patented SmartKnit® socks are truly seamless to eliminate pressure points found in other diabetic or traditional socks. Non-Binding HaloTop™ fits comfortably to minimize indentations. Superior moisture wicking fibers and antimicrobial to inhibit odor in the sock help to keep feet dry and healthy. Enhance the effectiveness of recommendations for protecting patients’ feet with foot display and detailed patient brochures, explaining the important role diabetic socks play in management of diabetes. For more information contact Knit-Rite today at 800/821-3094 or customerservice@knitrite.com.

Comfort Products Inc.

OPTEC

Croydon, PA 800/822-7550 www.comfortoandp.com

Lawrenceville, GA 888/982-8181 www.optecusa.com

CrocsRx

PEL Supply Co.

Niwot, CO 303/848-7399 www.crocsrx.com

Cleveland, OH 800/321-1264 www.pelsupply.com

The Fillauer Companies

Royal Knit Inc.

Chattanooga, TN 800/251-6398 www.fillauercompanies.com

Lees Summit, MO 800/664-5648 www.royalknit.com

Freeman Manufacturing Co. Sturgis, MI 269/651-2371 www.freemanmfg.com

52

Kingsley Manufacturing Co.

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

For over 50 years, PEL has offered practitioners outstanding

SERVICE Bev Barnhardt, Director of Customer Service • 10 years of service with PEL • Cuyahoga Comm. College in Nursing • Loves walking and water aerobics • Avid “sports mom” for her 3 kids • Trains CSRs to “fulfill all customer expectations”

on the most popular products available from the O&P industry’s leading manufacturers. Phone, fax or email your order to a PEL CSR, trained and coached

by Bev, to provide expedient and dependable service. Over 98% of popular products ship the same day.

Transconnector complete with terry cloth liner.

(Shown as 950KMO/Transconnector (Adult).

Also available as 950KMO/VV/ Transconnector, and 850KMO/ Transconnector (Pediatric) or 850KMO/VV/Transconnector)

Seattle Turas with cosmesis removed.

Trulife Seattle Turas Foot • Integrated multi-axial composite ankle • Dynamic split keel design • Enhanced plantar flexion at heel strike provides early foot stability • Removable, split toe foot shell • Medium activity, K3 • Maximum weight of 113 kg/250 lb

ALPS Extreme Cushion Liner and Sleeve • For transfemoral or active transtibial amputees • Liner has 80% less vertical stretch to reduce movement of redundant tissues • Sleeve seals against skin without restricting circulation or causing shear forces • Wider distal end for easier donning • New GripGEL™ gently yet firmly supports residual limb and sensitive tissues • Prevents sleeve from rolling down limb • Available in 3mm or 6mm uniform profile

Anatomical Concepts, Inc. Transconnector™ • Cost effective alternative to custom made KAFO • Provides versatility, simplicity and functionality • Quickly connects/disconnects any functional variations of PRAFO® ankle foot orthosis and KMO® knee orthosis

®

Experience the Power of One.

Over 50 years of one stop shopping for all your O&P needs.

Phone: 800-321-1264 Fax: 800-222-6176 E-mail: customerservice@pelsupply.com Web: www.pelsupply.com

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

53

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

2010 BUYER’S GUIDE TO FOOT CARE

Miscellaneous CAD/CAM SYSTEMS ACOR Orthopaedic, Inc 18530 S Miles Pkwy Cleveland, OH 44128 800/237-2267 www.acor.com Acor’s 3-Dpedia multi-directional 3D scanner system digitally captures a traditional foam impression and the digital pressure readings of the patient, then sends the data through a standard internet connection directly to our production department. We can then fuse the two data sources and send instructions to our CNC milling machine. The result is an accurate orthotic that can be reproduced at any time from the digital file. For ease of order transfer and ability to reproduce foot orthotics every year, Acor’s new 3-Dpedia™ is the answer.

COMPRESSION HOSIERY Knit-Rite, Inc.

Kansas City, KS 800/821-3094 www.knitrite.com

Core-Spun by Therafirm® Gradient Compression Support Socks Core-Spun by Therafirm® Support Socks are made with the unique technology of core-spun yarns for a patent pending, true gradient compression sock that is ultra stretchy, easier to put on, and more comfortable to wear. Core-Spun look and feel like comfortable everyday active socks while delivering a controlled amount of pressure greatest at the ankle and gradually decreases towards the top of the sock to promote better circulation, reduce swelling, and energize tired legs and feet.

Moisture wicking fibers. Wide Calf sizes available.

54

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

Light 10-15mmHg, Mild 15-20mmHg, Moderate 20-30mmHg, and Firm 30-40mmHg Support Levels.

THERAFIRM is a leading manufacturer of healthy, graduated compression hosiery and socks for men and women in light, mild, moderate, and firm compression levels. For more information contact Knit-Rite today at 800/821-3094 or customerservice@knitrite.com.

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS SPS Alpharetta, GA 800/767-7776 extension 3 www.spsco.com

SPS’ Hands on Feet Workshop SPS’ 8 hour Hands on Feet Workshop is designed to address the complexities of care for neuropathic and dysvascular limbs.

The program highlights mechanisms for clinicians to positively influence patient outcomes and prevent future breakdowns. Course provides participants with mechanisms to: • Identify those patients at risk for foot ulceration due to lack of sensation • Identify causes and clinical signs of degeneration and pressure sites.

• Use objective evaluation and documentation to assess, treat and follow-up.

• Incorporate thermography into evaluation and treatment protocols.

Case studies included, time permitting. Contact SPS Customer Service at 800/767-7776 extension 3 to register today.

Don’t want to wait?

Now you don’t have to...

ABC is offering more dates for the certification exams in 2011.

Now with a total of four exam cycles each year, you’ll have even more opportunities to become ABC certified!

MORE EXAMS, GREATER ACCESS, AMAZING OPPORTUNITIES.

ABC’s 2011 certification exams for orthotists, prosthetists, pedorthists, orthotic, mastectomy and therapeutic shoe fitters are: >> FEBRUARY 14-19 >> MAY 9-14 >> AUGUST 8-13 >> NOVEMBER 14-19

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc. 330 John Carlyle St., Suite 210 Alexandria, VA 22314 703-836-7114

www.abcop.org

Contact us today at 703-836-7114 to learn how you can become ABC certified. Download the Scope of Practice and an application at www.abcop.org.

Ready When yo

u

aRe ... tm

lumbar

Thoraco-lumbar Thoracic ScolioSiS

If only I could have:

R e a d y W h e n Yo u A r e . . .

- tech support round-the-clock.

- quality products at a fair price.

- the brace when my patient needs it.

- my orders taken anytime.

- a brace the way I want it.

5 6 3 • 7 24 •

TlSo (back)

TlSo TlSo

w/

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Dlk

PPX

Only OPTEC fits that mold!!!

For nearly 15 years, OPTEC has been a leader in custom spinal orthotic manufacturing.

PDAC Approved LSO & TLSO Ph : 8 8 8 -98 2 -81 8 1 • F x : 877- 288- 4197 • sales@opt ecusa.com 9 7 5 Pro gres s C ircle • L a wrenceville, GA 30043 • www.opt ecusa.c o m

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AOPA Headlines AOPA WORKING FOR YOU

Industry Resilience O&P businesses stay strong according to the 2010 AOPA Operating Performance Report

D

id you know that in 2009, the typical O&P patientPayroll and Sales care facility generated $166,000 in revenue for each Another critical number affecting profits is the total full-time equivalent employee? Did you know this payroll and fringe benefits paid per employee. The median measure of productivity doesn’t vary much from big cities annual compensation, including benefits, for all responto small communities or rural areas? A facility with revenues dents was $63,733 per full-time employee. The profit of more than $5 million weighs in at $160,000 per employee, leaders reported $61,586 per employee, while smaller and facilities in smaller and or rural communities generate facilities paid $55,360. Compensation increased with $166,000 in revenue per employee. business size, going from $69,567 for facilities with annual The difference in revenue per employee shows up more revenues of $1 million to $2 million, to $73,090 for those sharply as a factor of total revenues. Patient-care facilities with revenues of $2 million to $5 million, and $73,150 for with under $1 million in annual revenue generate an average those with revenues of more than $5 million. of $134,000 per employee; those with That number is important when revenues of $1 million to $2 million comparing the all-respondent average generate $170,000 per employee; $2 to revenue per employee of $166,000 and $5 million, $182,000 per employee; and its impact on profitability. The $63,733 more than $5 million, $160,000. median employee cost for all responSo if you know how many full-time dents represents 37 percent of revenue Volunteer Leaders on the employees your competitors have, you per employee. This compares with the AOPA 2010 Business should be able to come pretty close 32 percent of revenue that profit leaders Survey Taskforce to an accurate estimate of their total pay, with a salary/benefit cost of $61,586 annual revenue. per employee on revenue-per-employee Michael E. Hamontree, These and other facts are hidden of $191,000.

Chairman gems contained in the 2010 AOPA The ratio of compensation to Operating Performance Report. Prepared average revenue per employee takes on Greg Bauer, CPO

by AOPA’s consultant, Industry special significance when comparing Candy Carlson Insights, the report distills 2009 the all-respondent profit before tax operating data from 140 companies of 10.3 percent of sales. Profit leaders Bob Leimkeuhler, CPO representing 1,013 full-time facilities (upper 25 percent of performers) Mike Schlesinger and 78 part-time facilities. registered 18.5 percent net profit on When using the report, keep in mind sales. The difference is largely in the Craig Wright that the results reflect only the experitotal production labor costs, shown as ences of the respondents and may not be 19.1 percent for all respondents and 13.5 representative of the O&P community as a whole. But with percent for profit leaders. The profit leaders spend more more than 50 percent of AOPA’s member locations reflected on central fabrication but less on prefabricated devices, in the numbers, the results can be helpful—especially when raw materials, components, and operating supplies. Profit year-to-year comparisons are examined. This year-to-year leaders spend 4.3 percent on central fabrication compared to information, while very useful, also must be used with the all-respondent ratio of 3 percent. caution because the mix of members responding changes These ratios did not vary significantly from the 2008 to each year, which can skew the numbers. the 2009 report.

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

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AOPA Headlines AOPA WORKING FOR YOU

Performance Report (CPR), which presents the The 2009 increase in sales over 2008 was individual company’s own ratios and data, 4.9 percent for all respondents, but profit THIS AMAZING comparing that information to the perforleaders reported a 6.3 percent increase. Profit PROFIT BOOSTER mance of their peers. It’s a tool consultants leaders, like all respondents, predicted a 5 FOR IS would charge thousands of dollars to percent growth in sales for 2010. produce for clients—if they could access Over the past five years, the pattern AOPA MEMBERS. similar data. The CPR shines a spotlight of profitability (before-tax net profit as a on high and low performance areas of percentage of sales) has remained in a fairly the business that should receive more thorough analysis. tight range, from a low of 8.3 percent in 2005 to a high of 11.1 Variances may be perfectly explainable, but examining why percent in 2006. In 2007, profitability was 9.8 percent; in 2008, they exist is just good management. it was 8.4 percent; and in 2009, as noted, it was 10.3 percent.

Now published every year, the report is expanded in Sales growth over the years also has been fairly constant, odd-number years to include compensation and detailed with 5.4 percent growth in 2006, 7.2 percent in 2007, 4.2 benefits information. Both pieces of information are percent in 2008, and 4.9 percent in 2009. critical in structuring the best compensation and benefit packages to attract and retain professionals who can help Company Performance grow the business. The 2009 report, based on 2008 data, Participants had a powerful incentive to complete the covered both areas. four-page questionnaire in which they supplied operating For AOPA members who did not participate in the and some compensation data. All participants receive a free survey, an electronic version of the OPR can be ordered copy of the 68-page report, which is available online through through the AOPA Bookstore for $85, or $185 for hard copy. the AOPA Business Optimization Analysis Tool (BOAT). Access Nonmembers can also order the OPR at a price of $185 for the BOAT at www.AOPA-BOAT.com. the electronic version and $325 for the hard copy. a In addition, respondents also receive a free Company

FREE

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

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AOPA Headlines Brandt and Park Join the O&P Lobbying Effort One of AOPA’s two lobbying firms, Alston & Bird, made news recently in Washington, D.C., policy circles for its acquisition of two highly talented health policy experts. The Hill newspaper reported that Kim Brandt, former director of the Medicare Program Integrity Group at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and Michael Park, a top health policy advisor to the Senate Finance Committee, have joined the Alston & Bird team.

Brandt and Park are “two of the smartest and best liked policy people in health care today,” said Tom Scully, AOPA’s lead lobbyist at Alston & Bird and former head of Medicare. “Both are known for being excellent lawyers that work closely on a bipartisan basis with everyone in the health-care community.”

Kudos for O&P Almanac and AOPA The February 2010 and March 2010 issues of the O&P Almanac received American Graphic Design Awards for 2010.

The awards are given by Graphic Design USA, a magazine for design professionals.

Advertising agencies, graphic design firms, corporations, institutions, and publishers are among those eligible for recognition, according to Graphic Design USA. The awards honor “outstanding work across all media: print and collateral, advertising and sales promotion, corporate identity and logos, internet and interactive design, packaging and p-o-p, broadcast and motion graphics.”

This year, the contest attracted more than 8,000 entries.

In addition, O&P Almanac won an APEX award for excellence in health/medical writing. The APEX Awards are sponsored by Communications Concepts.

AOPA is honored that the O&P Almanac has been recognized with these awards. In particular, AOPA wishes to express its thanks to Catherine Marinoff at Marinoff Design, the magazine’s graphic designer, and Josephine Rossi, editor of the O&P Almanac, for their hard work and the impressive product that AOPA is able to provide to members each month.

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

IN MEMORIAM

Kay Leimkuehler Catherine (Kay) Leimkuehler, wife of the late PEL Supply founder Paul E. Leimkuehler, died October 6.

She was 92.

A well-known fixture in the orthotics and prosthetics industry for more than 50 years, Leimkuehler was president of the AOPA (then called OALMA) Women’s Auxiliary for the 1953-1954 term. In the 1960s, she was instrumental in organizing the AOPA archives, a compilation of photos, catalogs, manuals as well as “artificial limbs” and braces from early 20th century O&P companies. During her lifelong affiliation with O&P, she attended more than 50 national meetings.

Leimkuehler is survived by her four children—Bill, Bob, and John Leimkuehler, and Paulette Leimkuehler Vaughn— all members of the O&P industry. She also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, of whom seven are currently working in the O&P field.

Memorial donations should be sent to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Northern Ohio Chapter, 4635 Richmond Rd., Suite 103, Warrensville, OH 44128.

FINALLY!! O&P Board Study Resources We can help you PASS your BOARDS

First AOPAversity Practice Management Webcast Available Following the success of the AOPAversity Mastering Medicare webcast series, AOPA is pleased to announce the availability of the first three modules of the AOPAversity Practice Management webcast series, focusing on helping you develop sound business practices. Currently available modules discuss creating a new O&P business, acquiring an existing O&P business, and enrolling in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Additional modules are currently being developed, with a total of 12 hour-long webcast modules planned.

Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to increase your O&P business knowledge. The cost for each module is only $99 for AOPA members and $199 for nonmembers. You can earn valuable continuing education credits through ABC and BOC by completing and returning the test that accompanies each module.

To register, contact Ann Davis at 571/431-0876 or adavis@ AOPAnet.org. a

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The ONLY Comprehensive Study Guides Specifically for Orthotics and Prosthetics (Many of our products are available in DVD Format also!)

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AOPA Applications

The officers and directors of the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA) are pleased to present these applicants for membership. Each company will become an official member of AOPA if, within 30 days of publication, no objections are made regarding the company’s ability to meet the qualifications and requirements of membership.

At the end of each new facility listing is the name of the certified or state-licensed practitioner who qualifies that patient-care facility for membership according to AOPA’s bylaws.

Affiliate members do not require a certified or state-licensed practitioner to be eligible for membership.

At the end of each new supplier member listing is the supplier level associated with that company. Supplier levels are based on annual gross sales volume: Level 1: equal to or less than $1 million Level 2: $1 million to $1,999,999 Level 3: $2 million to $4,999,999 Level 4: more than $5 million

Combined Medical Services Group Inc. 1455 Gene Street Winter Park, FL 32789 407/662-7200 Fax: 407/662-7528 Category: Patient-Care Facility Steven Smith, BS, CPO

Dupage Prosthetic-Orthotic Services

Limb Craft Inc. 1950 E. Chapman Avenue, Ste. 6 Fullerton, CA 92831 714/626-0417 Fax: 714/626-0319 Category: Patient-Care Facility Nathan Lee, CPO

New Beginning Orthotics & Prosthetics

121 E. Roosevelt Road, Ste. B Lombard, IL 60148 630/261-9317 Fax: 630/261-9319 Category: Patient-Care Facility John E. Rooney, CP, C.Ped.

3333 Elvis Presley Blvd., Ste. 203 Memphis, TN 38116 901/396-6221 Fax: 901/396-6224 Category: Patient-Care Facility William Carver, Jr., BOCP, CP, RTPO

Florida Prosthetics & Orthotics

SteeperUSA

11760 Bird Road, Ste. 506 Miami, FL 33175 305/553-1217 Fax: 305/553-1237 Category: Patient-Care Facility Rolando Torres, CPO

3619 Paesanos Parkway Shavano Center III, Ste. 200 San Antonio, TX 78231 210/481-4126 Category: Supplier Level 1

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

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Jobs Mid-Atlantic

INCREASE EXPOSURE AND SAVE!

Place your classified ad in the O&P Almanac and online on the O&P Job Board at jobs.AOPAnet.org and save 5 percent on your order. BONUS! Online listings highlighted in yellow in the O&P Almanac.

- Northeast - Mid-Atlantic - Southeast - North Central - Inter-Mountain - Pacific Use our map to find which region you fit into!

CLASSIFIED RATES Classified advertising rates are calculated by counting complete words. (Telephone and fax numbers, e-mail and Web addresses are counted as single words.) AOPA member companies receive the member rate.

Member Non-member Words Rate Rate 50 or fewer words $140 $280 51-75 words $190 $380 76-120 words $260 $520 121 words or more $2.25 per word $5.00 per word Specials: 1/4 page, color

1/2 page, color

$482 $678 $634 $830

Advertisements and payments need to be received approximately one month prior to publication date in order to be printed in the magazine. Ads can be posted and updated at any point on the O&P Job Board online at jobs.AOPAnet.org.

No orders or cancellations are taken by phone.

Ads may be faxed to 571/431-0899 or e-mailed to srybicki@ AOPAnet.org., along with a VISA or MasterCard number, the name on the card and the expiration date. Typed advertisements and checks in U.S. currency made out to AOPA can be mailed to P.O. Box 34711, Alexandria, VA 22334-0711.

Note: AOPA reserves the right to edit Job listings for space and style considerations.

Responses to O&P box numbers are forwarded free of charge. Company logos are placed free of charge.

JOB BOARD RATES Visit the only online job Member Non-member board in the industry at Rate Rate jobs.AOPAnet.org! $80 $140 Save 5 percent on O&P Almanac classified rates by placing your ad in both the O&P Almanac and on the O&P Job Board, online at jobs.AOPAnet.org.

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O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

CP/CPO Dayton, Ohio We have an immediate opening for a certified prosthetist to join our young but rapidly growing prosthetic-only practice.

Optimus Prosthetics was founded in 2007 and believes in providing prosthetic care based on traditional values combined with innovative technology.

Optimus is a leading-edge digital practice using OPIE practice management software and CAD/CAM technology. Our employees are essential to our success and we provide opportunities for job challenge, training, and self-development. We are willing to pay for the best and offer an excellent benefits package including 15 PTO days your first calendar year of employment and matching 401(k) contributions.

The ideal candidate must have a certificate or degree from a NCOPE-accredited prosthetic program, a minimum of five years experience, and Ohio licensure or eligibility. E-mail resume to:

Scott Schall E-mail: sschall@optimusprosthetics.com

Certified Orthotist Kentucky BOC/ABC Certified Orthotist needed. O&P facility in Kentucky. Fax resumes to:

Fax: 270/904-6132

Northeast

Certified Prosthetist/CPO Voorhees, New Jersey We are an accredited, privately owned O&P facility with offices in Philadelphia and South Jersey and have an excellent reputation. We are seeking a self-motivated, skilled, and experienced practitioner with a strong clinical background who is patient oriented. Competitive salary and benefits package offered. Send resume to:

Bill Penney Philadelphia Orthotics & Prosthetics, Inc. 709 Somerdale Road Voorhees, NJ 08043 Phone: 856/428-4201 Fax: 856/428-4204

CO/CPO

Northeast

CPO, CO, Board-Eligible Orthotist or Prosthetist, BOCO or BOCPO, C.Ped

Maine • Are you looking for something more?

• Do you want to be more than a number?

• Do you want a great life and a great job?

• We are a terrific practice looking for some nice people.

Is this you?

We are a well-established, patient-oriented, ABC-accredited facility seeking to strengthen our staff. Competitive salary offered, with bonuses commensurate with productivity, and renumeration for required educational credits. Offices located in picturesque Maine, just a short distance from our coast and mountain regions. Learn more about joining our team of dedicated specialists by contacting:

Vermont Yankee Medical is looking for a CO or CPO who wants to participate in Vermont’s way of life. Vermont is a small state with a small population and all the benefits of more populous areas such as theater, orchestra, and the rest of the arts, but without traffic jams and high crime rates. Also, if you are someone who wants access to skiing, hiking, hunting, snowmobiling, sailing, diving, and all of the other activities that make us a year-round destination, then Yankee Medical is the place you want to be. Contact:

John Ficociello, CPO Yankee Medical Phone: 800/649-4591 E-mail: jnf@yankeemedical.com

O&P Ad 25356 O&P Almanac 330 John Carlyle St., Ste. 200 Alexandria, VA 22314 Fax: 571/431-0899

AVAILABLE POSITIONS

Why do I work for Hanger?

“

Hanger offers amazing resources for growing my skills. I have access to a vast network of more than 1,000 fellow practitioners across the country that I can call on—and I can learn far more from their real-life experience than I ever could from a textbook.

Orthotist

Springfield, MO Philadelphia Area, PA York, PA Murfreesboro, TN Milwaukee, WI Morgantown, WV Wheeling WV

Orthotist/Prosthetist Hollywood, FL Cincinnati, OH

Plus, I can take advantage of continuing education opportunities and extensive technological resources by being part of the largest prosthetic and orthotic company in the nation. I plan to have a long career with Hanger.

”

Charlye Tran, CPO, Practice Manager

Contact, in confidence: Sharon King, Director, Recruitment Tel: 512-777-3814 FAX: 512-777-3772 sking@hanger.com Hanger Orthopedic Group, Inc. 10910 Domain Drive, Suite 300 Austin, TX 78758

For more information visit www.hanger.com/careers Hanger Orthopedic Group, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment to all qualified individuals. All conditions of employment are administered without discrimination due to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, citizenship, or any

Birmingham, AL Denver, CO Waterbury, CT Evansville, IN Michigan City, IN Topeka, KS Paducah, KY Methuen, MA

other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Residency Program or Certificate Primary Education Program Info, contact: Robert S. Lin, CPO/Dir. of Academic Programs. Hanger P&O/ Newington O&P Systems, Ph. 860.667.5304; Fax 860.667.1719

Prosthetist

Hattiesburg, MS Jackson, MS Meridian, MS Henderson, NV

Albany, NY Cleveland, OH Westlake, OH Murfreesboro, TN

Prosthetist/Orthotist

Salinas, CA Hollywood, FL Miami, FL Atlanta, GA Dubuque, IA Louisville, KY West Monroe, LA Baltimore, MD Lansing, MI Farmingdale, NJ

Stratford, CT Waterville, ME Springfield, MO

Henderson, NV Albany, NY Oneonta, NY Murfreesboro, TN San Antonio, TX Pittsburgh, PA Bremerton, WA Lakewood, WA Olympia, WA Port Angeles, WA

Certified Pedorthist

Tacoma, WA Wheeling, WV

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

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Jobs Southeast

CPO (licensed or eligible) Alpharetta, Georgia Immediate opening for CP or CPO with minimum six years clinical experience to serve as technical liaison with customers and suppliers. Ideal candidate will have been a technician for period of three to five years before furthering education as CP or CPO. Position provides education to SPS customers, customer service, sales team, purchasing, and operations.

Position serves as primary contact point for clinical questions regarding product use/applications for all products SPS distributes. Responsibilities include development/presentation of educational programs on product technologies, materials, application, contra-indications, product evaluations, and sales/marketing support. Position works intimately with sales force to support customer needs for in-service, hands-on product demonstrations, and patient fittings.

Ideal candidate will be very well-organized multi-tasker who is enthusiastic and a highly motivated individual with a positive attitude. Must be strong team player. Hands-on fabrication experience in O&P field is highly desired.

Position requires 65 to 70 percent travel and is located at SPS headquarters in Alpharetta, Georgia. Please send resume and references to:

Vickie Quinn Southern Prosthetic Supply P.O. Box 406 Alpharetta, GA 30009 Phone: 678/455-8888 ext. 183 Fax: 678/455-8880

CPO (licensed or eligible) Atlanta, Georgia More than just home of the Big Chicken, Marietta is close enough to enjoy the city of Atlanta but far enough away to give you the best of both cities! The area has it all: professional sports; Centennial Olympic Park; Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Opera, Ballet; the Fox Theatre; the Tabernacle; the High Museum of Art; the world’s largest indoor aquarium; the World of Coca Cola, and much, much more!

We have an opening for a well-rounded Prosthetist/ Orthotist who possesses great organizational and communication skills, along with excellent patient care experience.

We offer a very attractive salary and benefit package, which includes relocation assistance and a sign-on bonus potential.

Ready to make a change? Join the Hanger Team!

To apply for this position or any of our other open positions, please visit:

Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics, Inc. www.hanger.com/careers

CPO Georgia An experienced CPO is needed for a well-established, ABC-accredited facility in Georgia. The individual must be licensed (or eligible) by the State of Georgia. This position is for three of our central-Georgia locations, and has opportunities for advancement. Benefits include full health insurance (including dental), life insurance, and a companysponsored retirement plan. Send resume to:

C. H. Martin Company, est. 1912 Fax: 404/525.9819 www.chmartinco.com

Bulow BioTech Prosthetics, www.bulowbiotech.com is seeking energetic, caring, and talented certified prosthetists to open clinics in several states. The certified prosthetist will be free to focus on patient care and given all the tools needed for success. We are unique in that we specialize in prosthetic patient care services only, allowing us to provide customized, one-on-one care for each of our patients. This is an amazing opportunity for very select individuals who want to take their career to the next level. A minimum of 4 years‘ experience as a certified prosthetist and a passion for prosthetic patient care excellence is required. Position includes excellent benefits and salary with monthly profit participation.

Qualified and interested individuals please e-mail resume to: chris.casey@bulowbiotech.com 66

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

AMERICAN ORTHOTIC & PROSTHETIC ASSOCIATION SERVING THE O&P FIELD FOR OVER 90 YEARS

Renew the Easy Way With AOPA ONLINE PAY Login to pay your dues and update your membership directory information at:

www.aopanetonline.org/profile

Renew Online Today!

NEW! UPDATE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY INFORMATION ONLINE

“Proven O & P Billing You Can Trust” Easy to Implement Turnkey Billing Services Make Your Practice More Enjoyable

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CPO Services can help you with all your O & P Billing needs, but don’t take our word for it see what our customers have to say “Don’t let another billing company put you out of business”

“If I were to start another practice I would 150% use John”

“I could not do all the billing myself, so we decided to hire a local firm to bill for us. They almost put us under. Then we found John and his team at CPO Services and now we don’t have to worry. I love John and Annette, they are part of our staff. Turn around is 2 to 4 weeks now, I seldom have to call them and when I do, they are prompt and efficient. They have all the reports I need and they know my schedule. ...Roxanne, Prosthetic Development & Research

“I was a new startup and did not have the expertise to properly bill. I know cash flow is critical so I needed a billing company that could help me get all my paper work in order and get money coming in the door”.

“John is a great person to work with, his staff is wonderful and extremely helpful with getting my new practice up and running.

“John’s eye for process and never ending persuit of improvments have put together the “Process Billing” system that uses today’s computer and telecommunications technology. O & P Practices can now outsource their billing and increasee their HIPPA compliance with just a few easy faxes”.

...Steven Chu, CPO Valley Prosthetics

...Martin J. Matties, President JME Inc IT Informatin Engineering

Why Choose Us? “Our Unique Billing Process” • fits both large and small • eliminates claim delays • guarantees quick claim turnaround • prevents missed items • guarantees maximum collection on claim • uses computer systems allowing a team of experts to process each claim

866-925-0674 Call today and find out how our “Billing Process” guarantees you will collect the maximum for your claims in the shortest possible time.

“John Uses’s todays computer and telecomminucations technology to your advantage”

Our customers have seen these results, You can too!

• 10% to 30% Increase in collections • 50% increase in office productivity • 90% less hours managing claims •100% of your billing needs handled • 30 + years guidance in O & P Industry

“Having an eye toward process improvments and 30 plus years of O & P and billing agency expirence has taught me how to get results that save you money and hours of unessary work.

Call me directly, toll free (866) 925-0674, so I can show you how easy it is to have us do your billing today.”. ...John Dolza, President CPO Services We make it easy for you to transition your billing to us with complete Satisfaction.

Stop chasing claims call today

Complete Professional Office Services p. (810) 629-6424 - f. (810) 629-6463

www.oandpoffice.com

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Jobs North Central

Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist Mid-State/Illinois Well established, independently owned, ABC-accredited O & P facility has opening for an ABC-certified CPO or CP....

We are inviting a mature, motivated individual with good communication skills and a commitment to providing the highest quality of patient care, to join our down-state Illinois practice. Competitive salary, health insurance, paid time off, and Simple IRA Plan are part of the benefits of a challenging, rewarding and appreciated position. Send resume to:

Phone: 309/664-6930 Fax: 309/664-6932 E-Mail: dj@petersorthopedics.com www.petersorthopedics.com

CPO and Pediatric CO Indiana Excellent career opportunities in a professional environment.

Prevail Prosthetics & Orthotics is looking for careeroriented professionals for our growing business located in central and northern Indiana. We are looking for orthotic practitioners for rehabilitation, pediatric and orthopedic/ orthotic management, as well as CP and CPO for active and geriatric populations. We offer quality working environments with excellent salary and benefits. Forward resume to:

Rita Hanke, Business Manager Prevail Prosthetics & Orthotics 7735 West Jefferson Boulevard Ft. Wayne, IN 46804 E-mail: rhanke@prevailpandp.com

CP/CO/CPO/CPED Maplewood, Minnesota Tillges Orthotic and Prosthetic is growing! To help facilitate this growth we are currently accepting resumes for Experienced Orthotic and Prosthetic Practitioners as well as Technicians, Compression fitters and C-Peds. Our corporate office/clinic is located in Maplewood, MN. Some local and regional travel could be required.

Job Requirements Immediate long-term opportunity for highly motivated orthotic/prosthetic technicians and certified orthotists, prosthetists. For technicians, experience preferred, but will train qualified individuals with good hand skills. Tillges Certified Orthotic Prosthetic, Inc. believes that the future of our business depends on the quality of our staff. Therefore, we make it our business to hire the best ‌ and treat them well. Our friendly staff operates in a fast-paced, team environment providing camaraderie, support, and fun. We can’t make the O&P business stress-free but we help you manage that stress by using state-of-the-art systems and with reasonable workloads and schedules. We believe in offering a competitive salary/ benefit package and advancement opportunities within our strong, and growing, company.

TCOP, Inc. is an aggressive, ABC-accredited facility with an outstanding reputation in the Minneapolis/St.Paul Metropolitan area. For consideration, please e-mail a.holm@ tcopinc.com or send your resume to:

Attn: COO, TCOP, Inc. 1570 Beam Ave., Suite 100 Maplewood, MN 55109 www.tcopinc.com

Inter-Mountain

Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist West Monroe, Louisiana We are searching for an individual who desires the security of working for the oldest patient care company in the world! If you have excellent clinical, organizational and communication skills, we would love to speak with you. Management experience a plus! This position is accompanied by top compensation and benefits, relocation assistance, paid certification dues, state-of-the-art education, and much, much more!

To apply for this position or any of our other open positions, please visit:

Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics, Inc. www.hanger.com/careers 68

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

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Jobs Pacific

USA/International

Certified Orthotist/Board Eligible Orthotist

Business Development Manager, Clinical Education Managers

Richmond, California Howard Orthopedics, Inc is seeking a self motivated Certified Orthotist and Board Eligible Orthotist for its growing practice. Candidates must have excellent communication and organizational skills and be patient oriented. We offer a competitive salary, health benefits, 401(k) and profit sharing.

Please send resumes to:

USA and International Trulife is a global manufacturer of orthotic, prosthetic, and physical rehabilitation products. The company’s investments in new product development, combined with the acquisitions of industry renowned brands, reflects Trulife’s core ethos of providing superior products to its customers.

Trulife has immediate EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES for the following: USA Business Development Manager for Orthotics & Prosthetics Clinical Education Manager for Orthotics & Prosthetics (CPO or CP)

E-mail: alexa@howardorthopedics.com

Certified Orthotist/Certified Prosthetist Orthotist California Do you want to work for an established, growing company in an environment that values clinical excellence, and work/life balance? Do you want to live in one of the most desired and diverse areas in the country, beautiful Southern California?

SCOPe has a career opportunity for you. We are a leading orthotics and prosthetics company looking for an energetic and motivated CO and/or CPO to provide comprehensive assessment, treatment, and follow-up for our patients.

SCOPe offers competitive salaries as well as an excellent benefits package for full-time employees. Salary is commensurate with experience. All communications will be held in the strictest confidence. Interested parties can send resumes via email to:

E-mail: jobs@scop.net Fax: 858/292-5496 www.scop.net

Certified Orthotist/Prosthetist Honolulu, Hawaii Established and independently owned O & P company has an immediate opening for a well-rounded orthotist, preferably someone who can do both orthotics and prosthetics.

Applicant should possess certification from accredited program, 5+years in the field and who possesses great organizational and communication skills, along with excellent patient care experience. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume to:

Fax: 808/791-1025

International Clinical Education Manager for Prosthetics (CPO or CP) Clinical Education Manager’s Primary Responsibilities: • Providing technical support to customers, as well as, internal personnel • Creating and presenting educational courses and in-services • Evaluating new product and market opportunities • Coordinating patient trials for new and existing products • Assisting marketing with technical manuals and sales collateral Business Development Manager for Orthotics and Prosthetics’ Primary Responsibilities: • Defining Orthotic and Prosthetic product roadmaps • Formulating strategy for Orthotic and Prosthetic product development • Presenting and communicating findings to all levels of the organization • Performing continuous research of industry, market, and technologies • Assisting marketing with promotion planning, launch, and implementation of new Orthotic and Prosthetic products Trulife offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package. In the USA, this includes health/dental/vision insurance and 401(k). Please submit resume to:

Fax: 360/697-1952 E-mail: employment@trulife.us NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

69

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Calendar

2010 ■■

PROMOTE EVENTS IN THE O&P ALMANAC

CALENDAR RATES Telephone and fax numbers, e-mail addresses and Web sites are counted as single words. Refer to www.AOPAnet.org for content deadlines.

Member Non-member Words Rate Rate 25 or less $40 $50 26-50 $50 $60 51+ $2.25 $3.00

per word per word Color Ad Special: 1/4 page Ad $482 1/2 page Ad $634

$678 $830

BONUS! Listings will be placed free of charge on the Attend O&P Events section of www.AOPAnet.org.

Send announcement and payment to: O&P Almanac, Calendar, P.O. Box 34711, Alexandria, VA 22334-0711, fax 571/431-0899, or e-mail srybicki@AOPAnet.org along with VISA or MasterCard number, the name on the card, and expiration date. Make checks payable in U.S. currency to AOPA. Note: AOPA reserves the right to edit Calendar listings for space and style considerations.

For information on continuing education credits, contact the sponsor.

Questions?

E-mail srybicki@AOPAnet.org.

AOPA-sponsored activities appear in red.

70

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

■■ NOVEMBER 4–6 The North Carolina Chapter AAOP Annual Meeting.

Charlotte, NC. Ballantyne Resort. For more information, visit www.oandp.org/membership/ chapters.

NOVEMBER 8: Ohio Willow Wood: Discover LimbLogic® VS via WebEx, 1:30 pm ET. Critical components and operation discussed. Covers interpreting feedback from fob and basic fabrication processes for system. Credits: 2.5 ABC/2.0 BOC. To register online, visit www.owwco.com/webinar.php.

■■

■■ NOVEMBER 10: AOPA Audio Conference: “The Ins and Outs of Billing in a Part A Setting: Hospital, SNF, and Hospice.” To register, contact Ann Davis at 571/431-0876 or adavis@ AOPAnet.org.

NOVEMBER 10 Ultraflex: Pediatric UltraSafeGait™ Continuing Education Course, via WebEx, 5:00 – 6:00 pm ET. Covers assessment of pediatric pathological gait and influencing shank kinematics with the new Adjustable Dynamic ResponseTM (ADRTM) technology. Presented by Keith Smith, CO, LO, FAAOP. To register, call 800/2206670 or register at www. ultraflexsystems.com.

■■

■■ NOVEMBER 10–12 The New Jersey Chapter AAOP Annual Meeting.

Atlantic City. Bally’s Hotel & Casino. For more information, visit www.oandp.orgmembership/ chapters.

■■ NOVEMBER 16–17 Allard USA: T.O.T.E. (Tomorrow’s Orthotic Technology Education).

Chicago. Three courses: New Perspectives in the Comprehensive Management in Gait Disorders; Tri-planar Biomechanics in Pediatric Function; Custom Fabrication TLSO/LSO & KAFO and New Approaches for Partial Foot Prostheses. Approved for 18.25 CEUs. Contact 888/678-6548; e-mail: info@allardusa.com.

■■ NOVEMBER 18 Ultraflex: Adult UltraSafeStep™ Continuing Education Course, via WebEx, Noon–1:00 pm ET. Focuses on normalizing adult pathological gait with the utilization of Adjustable Dynamic Response TM (ADR TM) knee & ankle technology. To register, call 800/220-6670 or register at www.ultraflexsystems.com.

NOVEMBER 23 Ultraflex: Complex Orthopedic Rehabilitation Continuing Education Course, via WebEx, Noon–1:00 pm ET. Focuses on Ultraflex combination dynamic & static stretching orthosis for addressing complex orthopedic rehabilitation goals and restoring range and function To register, call 800/2206670 or register at www. ultraflexsystems.com.

■■

DECEMBER 2 Ohio Willow Wood: LimbLogic VS® Applications Practitioner Course. Mt. Sterling, OH. Course covers various clinical aspects of LimbLogic VS applications: static and dynamic socket fitting, vacuum pump configurations, fob operation, system evaluation, liner options, alignment, and troubleshooting. Credits: 7.25 ABC/7.0 BOC. Registration deadline: 11/11/2010. Contact: 877/665-5443.

■■

■■ DECEMBER 2–3 Allard USA: T.O.T.E. (Tomorrow’s Orthotic Technology Education).

Parsippany, NJ. Three courses: New Perspectives in the Comprehensive Management in Gait Disorders; Tri-planar Biomechanics in Pediatric Function; Custom Fabrication TLSO/LSO & KAFO and New Approaches for Partial Foot Prostheses. Approved for 18.25 CEUs. Contact 888/678-6548; e-mail: info@ allardusa.com.

■■ DECEMBER 3–4 Ohio Willow Wood: LimbLogic® VS Applications Technicians Course. Mt. Sterling, OH. Learn all aspects of fabricating LimbLogic VS for various applications: socket materials, controller configurations and care, fob operation, troubleshooting.

Fabricate sockets following recommended techniques for airtight socket designs.

Credits: 12.25 ABC/12.0 BOC. Registration deadline: 11/11/2010. Contact: 877/6655443.

■■ DECEMBER 8: AOPA Audio Conference: ”New Codes and Medical Policies for 2011.” To register contact Ann Davis at 571/4310876 or adavis@AOPAnet.org.

■■ DECEMBER 9: Ohio Willow Wood: LimbLogic® VS for Technicians via WebEx, 1:30 pm ET. Learn essentials of elevated vacuum socket fabrication using available socket adaptors with LimbLogic VS. Learn how to deal with airtight issues, unit operation, and diagnostics that will keep the system optimal for patient use.

Credits: 2.5 ABC/2.0 BOC. www.owwco.com/webinar.php.

■■ DECEMBER 9 OPGA: Bioness Training Course, Pinellas Park, FL. One-day course covers NESS L300 system evaluation, hands-on training and functional electrical stimulation concepts.

Instructed by John Michael, MEd, CPO/L. The NESS L300 is a user-friendly neuroprosthetic designed to improve gait for individuals experiencing foot drop.

6.75 MCEs from ABC. Call 800/214-6742 or register at www.opga.com.

operation, troubleshooting.

Fabricate sockets following recommended techniques for airtight socket designs.

Credits: 12.25 ABC/12.0 BOC. Registration deadline: 12/30/2010. Contact: 877/6655443.

■■ APRIL 15 Ohio Orthotics and Prosthetics Association Annual Spring Meeting.

Columbus, OH. Hilton Columbus. Contact Dianne Farabi at 614/659-0197 or dfarabi@columbus.rr.com.

■■ FEBRUARY 17–19: PrimeFare West Regional Scientific Symposium 2011.

Salt Lake City, Utah. Salt Palace Convention Center.

Contact Jane Edwards at 888/388-5243.

■■ APRIL 15–16: Ohio Chapter, American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) Annual Spring Technical Meeting.

Columbus, OH. Hilton Columbus. Exhibits included.

Contact Richard W. Butchko 614/659-0197 or butchko1@ columbus.rr.com. See Web site at www.ohiochapteraaop.com.

■■

DECEMBER 9–11: Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago: Pediatric Gait Analysis and Orthotic Management. Chicago.

Featuring Elaine Owen. 21.25 ABC Credits. Contact Melissa Kolski at 312/238-7731 or visit www.ric.org/education.

FEBRUARY 28–MARCH 4:

■■

2011 JANUARY 20: Ohio Willow Wood: LimbLogic VS® Applications Practitioner Course. Mt. Sterling, OH. Course covers various clinical aspects of LimbLogic VS applications: static and dynamic socket fitting, vacuum pump configurations, fob operation, system evaluation, liner options, alignment, and troubleshooting. Credits: 7.25 ABC/7.0 BOC. Registration deadline: 12/30/2010.

Contact: 877/665-5443.

■■

■■ JANUARY 21–22: Ohio Willow Wood: LimbLogic® VS Applications Technicians Course. Mt. Sterling, OH. Learn all aspects of fabricating LimbLogic VS for various applications: socket materials, controller configurations and care, fob

Spring 2011 SuperCourse at Motion Control, Inc. Salt Lake City, UT. In-depth training of Utah Arm/U3+/ Hybrid Arm; ProControl2; Hands-on experience with user interface software so bring your laptop. CEUs: 34 (estimated) awarded by ABC; First Look at NEW Li-Ion Battery for U3/U3+/Hybrid, NEW Electric Wrist Rotator, NEW TRIAD Preamps; Plus an overview of the NEW and EXCITING Motionfoot® from Motion Control. The Spring 2011 SuperCourse is a 5-day event. The fee is $1,350.

For more information or to register, call 888/696-2767, e-mail info@UtahArm.com, or visit www.UtahArm.com.

MARCH 16–19, 2011 37th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium. Orlando, Caribe Royale Orlando. Contact Diane Ragusa at 202/380-3663, ext.

208 or dragusa@oandp.org.

■■

■■ MARCH 28–APRIL 2: Association of Children’s Prosthetic-Orthotic Clinics 2011 Annual Meeting.

Park City, UT. The Canyons.

For more information, call 847/698-1637, e-mail acpoc@ aaos.org, or visit www.acpoc.org.

■■ APRIL 27–29: New York State Chapter of AAOP Educational Program. Albany Marriott Hotel, Albany, NY. Contact Joann Marx, CPO at Marx4nysaaop@aol.com.

■■ MAY 12–14: Western and Midwestern Orthotic Prosthetic Association/California Orthotic and Prosthetic Association Annual Meeting.

Reno, NV. (New) Peppermill Hotel. For more information contact Steve Colwell 206/440-1811 or Sharon Gomez 530/521-4541 or visit www.wamopa.com.

■■ JUNE 3–4: PrimeFare East Regional Scientific Symposium 2011. Nashville. Nashville Convention Center. Contact Jane Edwards at 888/388-5243.

■■ SEPTEMBER 19–22 AOPA National Assembly.

Las Vegas. Mirage Hotel. Exhibitors and sponsorship opportunities, contact Kelly O’Neill, 571/431-0852, or koneill@ AOPAnet.org.

2012 ■■ MARCH 21–24 38th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium. Atlanta. Hilton Atlanta. Contact Diane Ragusa at 202/380-3663, ext. 208 or dragusa@oandp.org.

2013 ■■ FEBRUARY 20–23 39th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium. Orlando. Caribe Royale Orlando. Contact Diane Ragusa at 202/380-3663, ext. 208 or dragusa@oandp.org.

Renew the Easy Way With

AOPA ONLINE PAY www.aopanetonline.org/profile

NOVEMBER 2010 O&P ALMANAC

71

Ad Index

n

For free product information from these advertisers, enter the advertiser name online at www.opalmanac.org/shop.

Company

Page

Phone

Web site or E-mail

Allard USA Inc.

21, 43

888/678-6548

www.allardusa.com

ALPS

29, 45

800/574-5426

www.easyliner.com

American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics

55

703/836-7114

www.abcop.org

Apis Footwear

38, 39

888/937-2747

www.bigwideshoes.com

BOC International

59

877/776-2200

www.bocinternational.org

Cascade Dafo

17

800/848-7332

www.cascadedafo.com

College Park Industries Inc.

37

800/728-7950

www.college-park.com

Comfort Products, Inc.

51

800/822-7500

www.comfortoandp.com

Custom Composite

12, 13

866/273-2230

www.cc-mfg.com

Daw Industries

1

800/252-2828

www.daw-usa.com

Dr. Comfort

5, C3

800/556-5572

www.drcomfortdpm.com

Euro International

15

800/378-2480

www.eurointl.com

Ferrier Coupler Inc.

32

800/437-8597

www.ferrier.coupler.com

Fillauer Companies Inc.

33, 61

800/251-6398

www.fillauercompanies.com

KISS Technologies LLC

25, 49

410/663-5477

www.kiss-suspension.com

KNIT-RITE

23, 47

800/821-3094

www.knitrite.com

Ohio Willow Wood

2

800/848-4930

www.owwco.com

OPTEC

6, 7; 56, 57 888/982-8181

www.optecusa.com

Ossur® Americas Inc.

11, C4

800/233-6263

www.ossur.com

Otto Bock HealthCare

C2

800/328-4058

www.ottobockus.com

PEL Supply Company

31, 53

800/321-1264

www.pelsupply.com

SPS

9

800/767-7776 Ext. 3

www.spsco.com

OP Almanac Online &

Reading the O&P Almanac has never been easier!

• • • •

Access advertiser Web sites by simply clicking on the hotlinks Access content with the click of a mouse or the touch of a smart phone Easily e-mail your favorite articles to colleagues Save articles as PDFs!

Go to www.AOPAnet.org, click on ‘O&P Almanac Online’ today!

For more information, contact Steven Rybicki at 571/431-0835 or srybicki@AOPAnet.org.

For advertising information, contact Dean Mather at 856/768-9360 or dmather@mrvica.com.

72

O&P ALMANAC NOVEMBER 2010

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