Lower Extremity Review
2018 is shaping up as a breakthrough year for 3D printing in orthoses, as the industry moves from promise to reality. Experts agree: Three-dimensional printing will deliver custom clinical products, designed for individual patients at an affordable price.
By Keith Loria
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has posted a Medicare fee schedule update effective April 1, 2018, announcing that diabetic shoe inserts fabricated using scanning devices will be now reimbursed using temporary HCPCS code K0903 at the same rate as inserts made over a positive model of the patient’s foot (A5513). The fee schedule for K0903 is set at $43.56, the current Medicare fee schedule for A5513.
Core Products International introduces the FootFlexor, described as a functional and comfortable AFO that allows the foot to perform naturally while walking. Designed to work with most lace-up shoes and boots, the FootFlexor works by incorporating the FootFlexor Wrap, eyelet clips, and a tension cord to help lift the toe during gait.
The Pedorthic Footcare Association (PFA) will hold its 59th Annual Symposium and Exhibition November 15 through 17, at the Marriott Grand in St Louis, MO. According to the PFA, this meeting is the largest educational event in the world solely dedicated to the practice of pedorthics and offers a full program of general and breakout sessions, networking and exhibiting opportunities, and social events.
Lynda Woodruff, PT, PhD, a visiting professor at Alabama State University (ASU), where she initiated the transitional doctor of physical therapy program, died at age 70 years on March 20. She was a lifetime American Physical Therapy Association member.
Biofreeze is launching its new Soothing Pain Relief Cream. Biofreeze also offers gel, roll-on, and spray external pain relief products. Research-proven to provide temporary relief from many aches and pains, Biofreeze Soothing Pain Relief Cream also hydrates and moisturizes the skin. Indications include sore muscles and joints, sprains, strains, and bruises.
Charles Southerland, DPM, received the Humanitarian Award at the 98th Annual American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) House of Delegates meeting, held March 20 in Washington, D, in recognition of his medical missionary work. He serves as program director for the Yucatan Crippled Children’s Project.
Legislation to expand the scope of practice in South Carolina to include the ankle under podiatric medical care received a second read April 4 in the state House of Representatives. The measure was voted forward by a 71-42 vote. The legislation was supported by the South Carolina Podiatric Medical Association.
Dennis R. Frisch, DPM, has been installed as president of American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). In accepting the position, Frisch underscored APMA’s unique value to its members. “Every podiatric physician has earned one thing.
New from Advantage by Elite Orthopaedics is Fracture Sock, designed to reduce skin irritation while wearing an ankle walker. The latex-free fracture sock is composed of 100% synthetic knit for superior moisture absorption. An improved cross stitch provides better compression, which helps reduce the risk of friction and lessens the risk of sock bunching.
Orthotic and prosthetic stakeholders met March 8 with members of Congress in Washington, DC, to discuss improving patient care and advancing other legislative objectives.
The US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) are challenging a recent Officer of the Inspector General (OIG) report, pointing out how flawed processes and misinterpretations are coloring the findings.
Mastercare AB’s Swedish Back Care System Mastercare Mini is a professional therapy table that can be used to reduce injury risk for runners. The unit strengthens and decompresses the muscles of the back to relieve pressure on the lower extremity joints, as well as the back.
Seventeen Samuel Merritt University (SMU) students and 5 faculty nurse practitioners undertook in March their 10th annual medical mission to San Ysidro, CA, located along the Mexican border.
OPED Medical Inc. (dba Evenup) offers the Vacotalus for stable treatment of the ankle region. The ankle appliance is designed for treating acute ankle injuries, for use in after-care for fractures of the ankle joint, preventing ligament lesions on the ankle joint, and for compensation of ankle joint instability.
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