Utilizing Orthoses to Optimize Patient Outcomes (Phoenix, AZ)

Utilizing Orthoses to Optimize Patient Outcomes

We have come a long way from locked knee KAFOs and stiff AFOs. The awareness and utilization of this technology will maximize patient outcomes. This seminar will cover orthotic bracing including AFOs, KAFOs, SCOs, and SSCOs. In addition, we will also discuss a microprocessor KAFO designed to provide a new level of safety and a more natural gait. The course will provide understanding of the requirements for activation for all Stance Control and Swing and Stance Control orthoses as well as how to optimize patient strengths to achieve these requirements. The participants will gain understanding of what happens during gait cycle in relation to the orthoses, and how patients can activate the system they are wearing. The course will provide therapy suggestions for providing increased safety, stability, and activation of the systems according to patient needs and system requirements.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of the course, the participants will be able to:

• Determine patient candidates for Stance Control as well as Swing and Stance Control patients.
• List three types of Stance Control activation and understand what each type requires for occurrence.
• Differentiate between the gait phases and how the microprocessor KAFO is working respectively
• Design an individualized gait training based on physical findings of the user and the technical possibilities the microprocessor KAFO offers
• Teach the patient how to walk with the microprocessor KAFO and operate it in different activities (motoric control)
• Describe the likelihood of outcomes for the patient

Presenter:

Ron Wilkinson, CPO/L

Ron began his O&P career in 1994 as an Orthotic Technician. Having already received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1991 and Master of Education degree in 1993 from Auburn University he attended Northwestern University Orthotic-Prosthetic Center for his O&P education. He received his Orthotic Certificate in 1997 and his Prosthetic Certificate in 1999. He worked for 22 years with Hanger Clinic in various roles from Technician to Clinic Manager. Most recently before joining Ottobock he worked for 2 years serving our Veterans at the Atlanta VA. Now at Ottobock he serves as an Orthotic Clinical Specialist primarily for the West Region. His responsibilities are customer education, product support and technical liaison.

Target Audience:

• Orthotists and orthotic assistants
• Physical therapists and assistants

Credits:

• 4 (s) ABC CEUs
  • NOTE: Category I ABC CEUs will be awarded to Certified Orthotists, Orthotic Assistants, and Orthotic Technicians. Category II ABC CEUs will be awarded to those with all other certifications.
• 4 PT CEUs (AZ PTA Course Approval# CEUL024771)