Lower Extremity Review
What’s causing the worsening signs and symptoms that are eroding the patient’s quality of life? Once that question is answered, what treatment should be pursued? In this case study, we describe the work-up and management of a woman whose illness was characterized by multiple vesicles and pustules and itching, scaling, and redness of the feet (as well as the hands), that progressed over months.
By Carla Benson, DPM
The increasing cost effectiveness of 3D printing sets the stage for disrupting a decades-old process for making orthotics – No doubt: The advent of 3-dimensional (3D) printing technology has had a major impact on the field of medicine.
By Keith Loria and Janice T. Radak
New partnership puts streamlined manufacturing process in the podiatrist’s office. Three-dimensional (3D) printing has shown promise in improving medical device manufacture, but cost-effectiveness and seamless manufacturing processes have kept it from becoming mainstream. All that is about to change.
By Keith Loria
8sole Makes US Debut – “We created an orthotics toolbox for doctors,” said Pavel Repisky, a partner at 8sole, the newest 3D player in the US orthotics market. On the touchscreen monitor in front of him is the page the company believes sets them apart from other 3D providers…
By Janice T. Radak
While the predominant view on the relationship between an elevated body weight and its effect on tendons, muscles, bones, and joints is grounded in the physical stress effects of body weight, the role of inflammation is becoming better understood.
By Robert Creighton, DPM
Does obesity affect balance and serve as an indicator of fall risk in this vulnerable population? The burden of obesity is rising at an alarming rate for older adults.
Excerpt By Thurmon E. Lockhart
Purdue University researchers have developed a shoe insole that could help make the healing process more portable for people who have diabetes-related foot ulcers. The researchers used lasers to shape silicone-based rubber into insoles and then create reservoirs that gradually release oxygen throughout the day.
Curbell Plastics, Orchard Park, NY, has been named the exclusive supplier of ProComp sheet across the U.S. ProComp is an innovative polypropylene material reinforced with carbon fibers for a 25% increase in stiffness. The individual fibers provide the ability of the composite to flow and stretch during melt temperature vacuum forming. Curbell Plastics was selected due to its orthotic and prosthetic expertise within the Curbell O&P specialty group.
OPTP has added a new 4″ diameter foam roller to its elite Pro-Roller line, available in standard and soft densities. The 36″ x 4″ roller is closer to the ground than the regular 36″ x 6″ diameter roller, for a safer, more stable feeling. They are well suited for the elderly, beginners, or individuals with a compromised sense of balance and are easier to control while using for massage.
Cadence Insoles introduces a new model to its line of exclusive, retail-only, over-the-counter orthotics. The EX MP provides semi-rigid support, durable high-rebound/low-compression set polyurethane foam, and an antimicrobial, low-friction CoolMax top cover with a built-in metatarsal pad. The EX MP is only available for purchase from physicians’ offices and select retailers; it is not available for online sales.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the new Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes, effective for claims with a date of service on or after January 1, 2019. The following code changes are relevant to lower extremity care providers…
The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) has established a minimum score to pass the therapeutic shoe fitter certification exam. Certified therapeutic shoe fitters participated in an ABC standard setting meeting to set this new criteria. A new form of the CFts exam was also approved earlier this year; it will be administered for the first time in February 2019.
KLM Laboratories continues to help practitioners meet the ever-changing needs of each patient. The Posted CP-3300 orthotic shell is the newest addition to the KLM prefabricated product family. This semi-flexible polypropylene shell has a 2-degree inverted rear foot post that is lightweight and low bulk. The design of the horseshoe shape will allow for heel lift attachments, which are under development.
Colfax, Annapolis Junction, MD, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire DJO Global, Vista, CA, for $3.15 billion. The transaction, which will be funded with cash, debt, and equity, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2019. Upon closing of the sale, DJO Global will operate as a new segment within Colfax and be led by current DJO Global President and CEO Brady Shirley, who will report directly to…
The new C-Brace by Ottobock HealthCare uses the world’s first mechatronic stance and swing phase control orthosis (SSCO) system, introduced with the original C-Brace, to control stance and swing phase with microprocessor sensor technology. Building upon the features of the first-generation C-Brace, the new C-Brace is smaller and lighter, allowing it to be worn under clothing.
Join
Stay in the loop with the latest news and updates! Subscribe now to receive exclusive content, special offers, and important announcements straight to your inbox. Don’t miss out – join our community today for all the latest updates delivered directly to you.