Category Archives: Archives
August 2010
GeriMac and MiniMac Knees
Fillauer offers the GeriMac and MiniMac knees. Both knees feature automatic lock at full extension and adjustable release at heel off. Adjustable stance flexion is incorporated to provide shock absorption and smooth gait. Knees are designed for K2 activity level … Continue reading
August 2010
Stump Warmer Stocking
Invented by an amputee who has dealt with severe phantom limb pain for two decades, the Stump Warmer is a multi-layered fabric stocking with a built-in heater. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the device generates heat for several hours on … Continue reading
August 2010
Thermoskin OL Knee Brace
Swede-O launches the functional ROM off-loading Thermoskin OL Knee Brace. This secure and lightweight full contact knee brace features a durable rigid aluminum construction and an easily adjusted flexion/extension stop for control and protection with increased activity. Soft molded condyle … Continue reading
August 2010
Beyond Bunionectomy: The Role of Physical Therapy
More and more surgeons are embracing the idea that physical therapy after bunion surgery can improve range of motion and other functional outcomes. But some practitioners still aren’t sure it’s right for everyone.
By Linda Weber Continue reading
August 2010
Out on a limb: Just average
Lower extremity researchers are realizing what practitioners already know: Sometimes, average just isn’t good enough. Anyone who’s familiar with the college admissions process can tell you about the limitations of averages. Sure, averages – in this case, grade point averages – can be useful as a screening tool, and to get a general sense of a student’s performance.
By Jordana Bieze Foster Continue reading
August 2010
Patellofemoral taping: Pain relief mechanisms
A recent study sheds new light on the underlying mechanisms of patellar taping, helps explain some previous contradictory findings, and provides strong evidence for patient specific treatments.
By Frances T. Sheehan, PhD Continue reading
August 2010
Night splint treatment of plantar fasciitis pain
Both the traditional adjustable night splint and a dorsal night splint improved plantar fasciitis pain outcome scores in a retrospective study, with results trending in favor of the dorsal design.
By Selene G. Parekh, MD, MBA, Olubusola A. Brimmo, MD, Ryan May, BS, and Bret C. Peterson, MD. Continue reading
August 2010
ACL experts aim to take training to the next level
Research suggests that training protocols can reduce the risk of anterior cruciate ligament tear, but epidemiological evidence suggests that in the real world, training doesn’t work as well as it should.
By Barbara Boughton Continue reading
August 2010
Spinal cord injury: Role of ankle foot orthoses
The current approach to gait retraining after incomplete spinal cord injury emphasizes restoration of normal walking patterns rather than compensation, which is changing perceptions about AFOs.
By Preeti M Nair, PT, PhD, and Andrea L Behrman, PT, PhD Continue reading
August 2010
Evidence-based foot care in patients with diabetes
The medical literature provides a range of evidence on which to base treatment decisions, but the practitioner must interpret and evaluate that evidence in the context of his or her clinical expertise.
By Cordell Atkins, PT, DPT, CWS, CDE, CPed Continue reading
August 2010
A twist in ACL-OA link
Studies clash over surgery’s significance
In the wake of a Dutch report that surgery does not decrease the risk of radiographically diagnosed osteoarthritis following anterior cruciate ligament injury, research presented in July identified preoperative variables that could predict the development of OA after ACL reconstruction.
Plus: • Hamstring injuries • Hip screening
August 2010
Orthoses relieve PFPS
Key variables predict response
Prefabricated foot orthoses improve the ability to perform weight-bearing knee flexion tasks in patients with patellofemoral pain, according to research from La Trobe University in Australia.
Plus: • Lacing techniques • Fatter, flatter feet
August 2010
Saving limbs at home
Studies spotlight American outcomes
For years, the amputation prevention literature has been dominated by studies performed outside the United States. Two recent studies, however, have served notice that that trend is starting to change.
Plus: • Depressive effects • Antibiotic regimens
July 2010
APTA endorses WalkAide system from Innovative Neurotronics
The American Physical Therapy Association in June endorsed the WalkAide system, developed by Austin, TX-based Innovative Neurotronics, the development and commercialization subsidiary of Hanger Orthopedic Group . WalkAide, which debuted in 2006, is an intelligent functional electrical stimulation (FES) system … Continue reading
July 2010
Study: Insoles benefit FAI patients
Prefabricated orthoses from Pittsville, MD-based Foot Management can help improve postural stability in patients with functional ankle instability, according to research from Indiana University. Investigators analyzed 40 patients with FAI, 20 of whom wore over the counter Foot Management insoles … Continue reading
July 2010
Launch nears for GPS-enabled shoe
Aetrex Worldwide’s GPS-enabled shoes for Alzheimer’s patients are one step closer to prime time. The Teaneck, NJ-based shoe manufacturer in June became the first commercial customer of Los Angeles-based GTX Corp, with an initial order for 3,000 GPS devices to … Continue reading
July 2010
Endolite gives SPS sole distribution
Alpharetta, GA-based SPS (Southern Prosthetic Supply) announced in July that that it is now the sole distributor of Endolite products within the U.S. All Endolite products may be purchased through any of SPS’ four distribution centers in Georgia, Texas, California, … Continue reading
July 2010
Orthotic Fitters Course makes debut
The American Association of Orthotic Fitters/American Society of Orthopedic Professionals announced in July the Initial Orthotic Fitters Course. The course combines 16 hours of home study with three days of live labs to meet BOC requirements for Certified Orthotic Fitter. … Continue reading
July 2010
Berries Contour Footwear
Aetrex Worldwide introduces the Berries women’s footwear collection, including clogs, slip-ons, and Mary Janes . The shoes incorporate four-way stretch uppers with Spandex and IQ150 breathable memory foam to conform to the foot, along with Mozaic customization to relieve high-pressure … Continue reading
July 2010
Pilates Triadball Manual
A new OPTP exclusive, The Pilates Triadball Manual, written by Pilates Master Teachers Michael Fritzke and Ton Voogt, contains more than 270 illustrated exercises and variations to strengthen, align and sculpt the body without classic Pilates equipment. The dynamic elasticity … Continue reading
July 2010
X-Silver AK Shrinker
Comfort Products now offers the new X-Silver AK Shrinker. Made with X-Static Silver for anti-microbial protection, the X-Silver AK Shrinker is designed for both short term and long term use. A soft, flexible belt is adjustable to accommodate waists from … Continue reading
July 2010
Varus/valgus Heel Wedges
G&W Heel Lift offers varus/valgus heel wedges. Designed based on practitioner recommendations, the 6º and 9º wedges can be used to correct foot and ankle issues related to excessive pronation or supination. In the large size, the wedged area extends … Continue reading
July 2010
Pentagon Knee Orthosis
The Pentagon Knee Orthosis from Anatomical Concepts is a posterior fitting, single upright, five-function knee orthosis that provides the orthopedic/rehabilitation team with a patient-friendly alternative to the traditional bulky double upright hinged knee device configuration. This system allows the calf … Continue reading
July 2010
ProMed Ankle Brace
Active Innovations introduces the new ProMed lace-up ankle brace. The ProMed ankle brace offers comfort and mobility with added support provided by its Y-shaped vertical stabilization straps that allow for control over both the forefoot and heel. Total control lacing … Continue reading
