Category Archives: Archives
April 2010
Multiple factors affect running shoe selection
The concept of evidence-based running shoe selection is nice in theory, but in fact, the literature is replete with conflicting findings on a range of issues, from arch height to shoe construction.
By Col. Joseph M. Molloy, PT, PhD, SCS, and Maj. Deydre S. Teyhen, PT, PhD, OCS
April 2010
Pointe shoes complicate biomechanics of ballet
Pointe shoes, which elongate a dancer’s legs and accentuate the beauty of classical ballet technique, come with their own set of biomechanical principles—and their own set of risk factors for injury.
By Selina Shah, MD
April 2010
Pelvic neutral: Key to balance training
Research suggests that balance exercises can help decrease injury risk and improve performance, particularly in female athletes. But balance training technique can significantly influence results.
By Gretchen D. Oliver, PhD, ATC, LAT
April 2010
In the moment: Diabetes
The photo shows a hospital scene that under different circumstances might be comical. A patient with a diabetic foot problem lies in a bed, surrounded by practitioners. But none of the practitioners are communicating with each other, and all but one have their backs to the patient.
Plus: • Platelet-rich plasma •Tendon lengthening • TCC utilization
April 2010
In the moment: knee OA
Two studies presented in March suggest that bracing for knee osteoarthritis may be effective in two patient populations that are not well represented in the OA bracing literature: those with lateral tibiofemoral compartment OA and those with severe disease. Plus: • Effects of footwear • PRP vs hyaluronan
April 2010
In the moment: sports medicine
Soccer is already the world’s most popular sport, but new research could very well broaden its appeal even further. Multiple studies from Denmark suggest that playing soccer can improve bone mineral density and other musculoskeletal risk factors associated with falls and fractures.
Plus: • FieldTurf vs grass • Pitchers leg it out Continue reading
April 2010
Market Mechanics
March 2010
Levy Dynamic AFO
Levy & Rappel introduces the Levy Dynamic. This dynamic ankle foot orthosis is manufactured with double Velcro straps, full custom uprights and a custom functional foot orthotic base. The custom footplate can be full length or trimmed to the metatarsal head or sulcus. … Continue reading
March 2010
Dynamic Walk Single Side
The Dynamic Walk Single Side Orthosis from Centri is a new ankle foot orthosis made of a lightweight moldable carbon fiber composite material. The open heel construction allows for optimal fit and comfort with various shoe types. The Dynamic Walk … Continue reading
March 2010
Iliotibial Band Compression Wrap
The Iliotibial Band Compression Wrap from Pro-Tec Athletics now has a new non-slip backing to minimize migration. The Iliotibial Band Wrap helps reduce pain on the outside of the knee, alleviating conditions of iliotibial band syndrome. Applied above the patella … Continue reading
March 2010
650 APU Articulated AFO
Anatomical Concepts now offers a multifunctional, ambulatory Articulated AFO for patients in the earliest stages of rehabilitation. Benefits of prescribing the 650 APU (Adjustable Posterior Upright) Articulated AFO include heel strike at initial contact, stability in stance phase with the … Continue reading
March 2010
Pediped Flex Children’s Shoes
The Spring/Summer 2010 pediped children’s shoe collection introduces more than 60 new styles including 39 Flex styles. The Flex styles boast new features incorporating the latest materials, including Memory Foam Technology (MFT). Memory foam allows the shoe to mold to a child’s foot, creating a … Continue reading
March 2010
Redi-Thotics Orthotic Matrix
Redi-Thotics introduces a specific indication orthotic matrix. This comes in response to practitioner demand for an easy to use guide for device selection. The color-coded guide is designed to facilitate proper fit and function of prefabricated orthoses and assist office … Continue reading
March 2010
1M10 Adjust Prosthetic Foot
Otto Bock HealthCare introduces the 1M10 Adjust prosthetic foot, developed specifically for the K2 user, which can be adapted to an amputee’s individual gait pattern without the need for realignment. The heel stiffness is adjustable for a soft, medium or … Continue reading
March 2010
Cryo Pneumatic Knee Splint
Corflex introduces reimbursable cryotherapy. The Corflex Cryo Pneumatic Knee Splint is designed to combine the benefits of pneumatic compression with cold therapy and is reimbursable under L4380. The simple design allows for easy application and adjustable compression with a self-contained on/off … Continue reading
March 2010
DRAFO DRG
Bracemasters International introduces the DRAFO (Dynamic Response Ankle Foot Orthosis) DRG (Dynamic Response Gauntlet). The DRG is a custom molded ankle gauntlet with a two-part design that features an FDA approved inner liner. It is extremely skin friendly and conformable … Continue reading
March 2010
Keeping MRSA in check: Are you doing enough?
The spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has clinicians, especially those who treat patients with diabetes, rethinking the way they practice. Experts offer tips for treatment and prevention, starting with what not to wear.
By Cary Groner
March 2010
Out On a Limb: Pro rated
When hearing about how a therapy has helped a professional athlete, it can be difficult to extrapolate those results to your own patient population. Tiger Woods may have lost Gatorade, but he’ll always have platelet rich plasma. By Jordana Bieze Foster
March 2010
A three-point approach to testing running shoes
The assessment test—which focuses on heel counter firmness, torsional control, and flexibility—can help in selecting a shoe that will be biomechanically effective as well as comfortable.
By Bruce E. Williams, DPM
March 2010
Return to football after Achilles tendon rupture
Only two-thirds of NFL skill players ever come back, and those who do find their performance significantly affected. But a prodromal period may offer opportunities for early intervention.
By Khalid Shirzad, MD; John D. Hewitt, MD; Carter Kiesau, MD; and Selene G. Parekh, MD, MBA
March 2010
Initiate weightbearing early after hip fracture
The improved outcomes seen with early ambulation go beyond gait and function. Because independence is so closely tied to mortality, proper rehab may also help patients live longer.
By Paula Richley Geigle, PT, PhD, Karen Lynn Gordes, PT, DScPT, Kimberly Dodson, and Gene Shirokobrod
March 2010
Active Stance: Orthoses – Functional relevance of the arch
The closer foot posture measures get to describing the medial longitudinal arch and plantar vault, the more applicable they are to the dynamic gait cycle.
By Stu Currie, DC; Don Bursch, PT, OCS; and Ed Glaser, DPM
March 2010
Preoperative exercise boosts TKA outcomes
An evidence-based exercise regimen, designed to enhance knee strength and the ability to complete functional tasks, may speed recovery following total knee arthroplasty in patients with knee OA.
By Kent Brown, MS, CSCS; Joseph A. Brosky Jr., PT, MS, SCS; Dave Pariser, PT, PhD; and Robert Topp, RN, PhD
