O&P Clinical Care Insiders (American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists)

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Keith Smith, CO, LO, FAAOP, and David Wilson, MPO, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, to discuss the value of the Academy’s Fellow designation. Together, they explore why this credential matters, not just for individual recognition, but for advancing the entire O&P profession. From the history and purpose of the Fellowship to the practical steps for earning the designation, the discussion highlights how becoming a Fellow fosters professional growth, peer collaboration, and higher standards of care. They talk about initiatives like Fellows First Friday and how the designation helps shape external perceptions of the field while opening new doors for career advancement.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), talks with Dr. Rory Gilhooly, a podiatric physician at Community Podiatry Group in Flint, MI, about diabetic foot health in O&P care. They discuss orthotic interventions for diabetic foot management, highlighting the importance of carefully monitoring inserts and footwear to prevent complications. Dr. Gilhooly shares insights on surgical options for managing diabetic foot issues and emphasizes the value of regular follow-ups to catch early warning signs, such as calluses or infections. The conversation also underscores the essential collaboration between podiatrists and prosthetists to provide the best patient outcomes.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 12, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Dr. Jason Stoneback, chief of orthopedic trauma and fracture surgery, and the director of the limb restoration and osseointegration programs at the University of Colorado Hospital. The two talk about bone-anchored prosthetics, Stoneback's introduction to osseointegration, different approaches to the procedure, and the FDA approval status. 

In episode 2, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Duffy Felmlee, MSP, COP, FAAOP, an Associate Professor for the Prosthetics and Orthotics Program within the College of ENHP at the University of Hartford, and co-chair of the Academy Fabrication Sciences Society. The two talk about fabrication sciences and its evolution, Duffy’s O&P career journey, latency methods in O&P, the importance of networking and mentorship, and his involvement with The Academy. 

This episode is sponsored by Ottobock.

Show notes

Links mentioned in this episode:

SCUBA Webinar: https://olc.oandp.org/diweb/catalog/item/eid/W2022-0914

Academy Fabrication Sciences Society Academy TODAY issue: https://online.publicationprinters.com/html5/reader/production/default.aspx?pubname=&edid=81e26237-ec70-45e0-b943-42038e22556e

2023 Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium:

Academyannualmeeting.org

Duffy Felmlee, MSPO, CPO, FAAOP, is an Associate Professor for the Prosthetics and Orthotics Program within the College of ENHP at the University of Hartford (UHart). Duffy maintains a practice as a clinical and educational consultant for Hanger Clinic.

Duffy is a member of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists board of directors,  co-chair of the Academy Fabrication Sciences Society, a member of the Outcome Research Committee, Online Education Committee, and the O&PiQ Advisory Board. Duffy additionally participates in various international humanitarian efforts and adaptive sport volunteer activities. 

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 6, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down Scott Thach, MSPO, CPO, LPO, a certified prosthetist orthotist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and chair of The Academy's Spinal Orthotics Society. In honor of Scoliosis Awareness Month, the two talk about Thach's career journey and professional gratification of treating pediatric patients, scoliosis and cranial treatments and techniques, accomplishments and future of the society, 99 Coding and his efforts to establish a new code.

This episode is sponsored by Spinal Technology.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Joe Fairley, CP, Business Development Manager of Digital Services for Proteor. They explore the evolution of CAD CAM technology in orthotics and prosthetics, focusing on the transition from traditional carvable files to 3D printable designs and the significant advancements in scanning technology. Joe shares insights on overcoming challenges such as the learning curve for clinicians and emphasizes the critical role of training and education. He also advocates for using consultants to ease the adoption of digital tools and forecasts continued growth in digital workflows, with exciting potential for future innovations in scanning technology and AI integration.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In our season 3 premiere episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), talks with Gerald Stark, PhD, MSEM, CPO/L FAAOP(D), a certified prosthetist orthotist and director of clinical and technical operations for BionIT Labs. They discuss the importance of learning from mistakes for continual improvement in clinical care. Dr. Stark outlines five common errors clinicians face, including misinterpreting anterior distal pressure, improper femoral positioning during casting, and failing to accommodate hip flexion contractures. They also discuss the impact of padding the wrong wall for transfemoral sockets and incorrectly outsetting the foot in trans-tibial prosthetics. Through these insights, Dr. Stark emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement in prosthetic and orthotic care.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 9, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Séamus Kennedy, BEng(Mech), CPed, FAAOP(D), a certified pedorthist and active member of the Academy’s Gait Society. The two talk about Kennedy's career journey as a pedorthist, the importance of vascular health and its impact on gait, new trends in patient care, and his long-time involvement with The Academy.

Show notes

Academy Scientific Societies Spotlight: https://opedge.com/every-step-you-take-quality-of-life-and-life-expectancy/

Annual Meeting Site: www.academyannualmeeting.org

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium in Chicago last week, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Glen Thompson, MS, CPO, and Matthew Garibaldi, MS, CPO, to talk about the Academy's new Bone-Anchored Prosthetics scientific society. They discuss the emerging interest with bone-anchored protheses, why now is the best time to create a society centered around osseointegration, combating barriers of regulation, society goals, basic anatomy of an implants osseointegration device, and how to get involved in the newly formed society. 

This episode is sponsored by Integrum. 

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In the latest episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Merkur Alimasaj, an engineer in the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology at Universität Heidelberg in Heidelberg, Germany, and Lauren Levey, CPO, MSPO, prosthetics program director at Boston Orthotics and Prosthetics at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. They discuss innovative approaches to orthotics and prosthetics care, emphasizing collaboration and creative solutions. The conversation highlights the need for tailored care as patients transition from pediatrics to adulthood, the importance of understanding the unique needs of adult patients with congenital conditions like spina bifida, and the necessity of a comprehensive approach that considers their entire medical history.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In the inaugural episode of our quarterly podcast, O&P Clinical Care Insiders: Industry Partners Edition, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), chats with Jonathan Taylor, director of clinical development and education at Spinal Technology. They explore the complexities of scoliosis bracing, comparing various brace types. Taylor emphasizes the lack of a single superior bracing method, noting the importance of clinical expertise and patient compliance. The conversation also touches on the impact of digital design and fabrication techniques in modern orthotic practices and the crucial role of industry partners in clinical decision-making. They conclude by highlighting the ongoing need for patient-centric care and the valuable resource role that companies like Spinal Technology can play for clinicians.

This episode is sponsored by Spinal Technology.

Show Notes

1:27 Spinal Technology depth of knowledge- Orthotic Management of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

2:40 Basics of Brace Design

5:10 Back to Basics- Variations of Brace Design

10:55- Good visual to explain the different approaches and different techniques 

Providence Nocturnal Scoliosis® Orthosis

3D Boston (Style) Scoliosis Brace

3D Chêneau (Style) Scoliosis Brace

Low Profile Milwaukee Brace

Not all Braces Are Created Equal

11:30 Nocturnal vs Full Time Bracing

Advantages of Nocturnal Bracing

Corrective Forces of Full-Time Bracing

Research in Nocturnal Bracing

2001 Nighttime Bracing Study with the Providence

Illustrations of the Providence Nocturnal Scoliosis® Orthosis

Illustrations of the Boston (Style) Full-Time Orthosis

12:30- Compliance

stWear Compliance Monitoring System

14:00 Parent Resources

16:56 Hyper correction Forces 

Growth Plates

20:23 What is Scoliosis

What are Scoliosis Braces

20:34 Pub Med Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

22:50 Practitioner Resources

23:12 CAD/CAM Digital Design

27:25 Case Study Scoliosis Specialists

Top 10 Reasons

In the latest episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Mona Patel, LCSW, founder and executive director of the San Antonio Amputee Foundation. Together, they discuss the significance of Mental Health Awareness Month, exploring Patel's impactful journey in supporting the limb loss community. They touch on the profound influence of peer support, the intricate dynamics of limb loss and its impact on loved ones, the risks of bottling up emotions, and the invaluable role of support groups in fostering healing and resilience.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In the latest episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Francois Van Der Watt, CPO, LPO, a certified orthotist-prosthetist and owner of Van Der Watt Prosthetics & Orthotics. Together, they explore cutting-edge advancements in running prosthetics, covering topics like bench alignment and the imperative for manufacturers to integrate the latest scientific findings. They delve into the controversies surrounding bilateral prosthetics, while also contemplating the potential impact of artificial intelligence and biomechanics on the future of prosthetic design. They also emphasize the importance of advocating for accessible prosthetics and orthotics, highlighting the need for choice, affordability, and personalization to improve quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

This episode is sponsored by Ottobock. 

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings. 

In our inaugural episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Chris Baschuk, MPO, CPO, FAAOP(D), director of clinical services for Point Design, and chair of the Upper Limb Prosthetics Society of The Academy. The two talk about Chris' O&P career path, the importance of mentorship, his involvement with the Upper Limb Prosthetics Society and The Academy, and words of wisdom for anyone considering a journey into upper limb prosthetics. 

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium in Chicago last week, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Nicole Ver Kuilen, disability advocate and champion of the So Every BODY Can Move initiative. They discuss the crucial role of advocacy within the O&P profession, the remarkable achievements of the So Every BODY Can Move program, and its profound impact on our community, the program's ongoing success, and exciting future endeavors.

This episode is sponsored by Qwadra.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 10, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Kara Davis, MS, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, a certified and licensed prosthetist orthotist with Texas Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas, Texas, and secretary of the Academy's Spinal Orthotics Society. The two talk about the role and impact of O&P on the spina bifida patient population, treatment for scoliosis, working in pediatrics with a team approach, brace naming conventions and her involvement with the Academy.

Show notes

Annual Meeting Site: www.academyannualmeeting.org

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In the season 2 premier, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with the co-chairs of the Academy's Gait Society, Kiley Armstrong, MS, MPO, CPO, certified orthotist at Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, and Sara Marmar, MS, MPO, LPO, certified orthotist-prosthetist at Orthotic Care Services in Minnesota. The three talk about gait analysis and training, orthotics and prosthetics in gait correction, a preview of gait-related content at the Academy's 50th Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium, and their involvement in the Academy's Gait Society.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 7, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down Jessica Corso, CO, LO, FAAOP, a certified orthotist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and chair of The Academy's Craniofacial Society. In honor of National Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Awareness Month, the two talk about Corso's career journey and her interest in a craniofacial specialty, her love for treating pediatric patients, 3D-printed cranial helmets and being involved in alpha and beta testing of product development, working with parents in treating infants needing cranial helmets, scanning technology, and her involvement with The Academy’s Craniofacial Society.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Clinical Care Insiders: Industry Partners Edition, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), speaks with Lindsay E. Ryback, director of lymphology & phlebology at Thuasne, and Lesleigh Sisson, CFo, CFm, vice president and general manager of O&P Insight. Recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting in Atlanta, the conversation explores lymphedema, a chronic condition caused by abnormal lymph fluid buildup. Lindsay and Lesleigh discuss treatment options, including Complete Decongestive Therapy and compression therapy, and break down the impact of the newly passed Lymphedema Treatment Act. They highlight the power of patient advocacy in shaping this legislation and what it means for coverage, reimbursement, and O&P practices looking to integrate lymphedema care. Lindsay also shares how Thuasne's products and resources support clinicians in delivering effective treatment.

This episode is sponsored by Thuasne and O&P Insight

Show notes

The following links were mentioned during this podcast episode.

Lymphedema Compression Treatment Items (from CMS.gov)

Lymphedema Advocacy Group

Lymphedema Compression Treatment Items: Implementation (from CMS.gov)

O&P Clinical Care Insiders: Industry Partners Edition is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Nicholas Gomez, PhD, CPO, FAAOP, an injury biomechanics consultant, a biomechanical engineer and a certified prosthetist, and Julia Dunn, PhD, a biomedical engineer specializing in biomechanics and Rehabilitation Engineering at the University of Utah, College of Engineering. They discuss their diverse backgrounds and the interdisciplinary nature of their research, focusing on the benefits of upper-extremity prosthetic devices, including their positive effects on gait and biomechanics. The discussion also covers the advantages of osseointegration in enhancing comfort, proprioception, and prosthesis usage. Tune in to learn about the holistic benefits of prosthetic devices, including passive wear to improve balance and alleviate issues such as back pain.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Fanny Schultea, MS, MSED, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), executive director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research. They dive into the remarkable growth of the O&P Foundation over the past two years, spotlighting significant donations and pledges from ABC and AOPA. Fanny also shares how the community can engage with the Foundation through volunteering, donations, and providing valuable feedback. The conversation explores the Foundation’s core program areas—education, research, and professional awards—and their vital impact on clinicians and the O&P profession at large.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), talks with Mike Madden, CPO, FAAOP, about the often-overlooked role of technicians in O&P.  Together, they explore the significance of technical expertise, strategies for effective workforce development, and ways to attract and retain skilled talent. Madden delves into the creative and essential nature of technical work, advocates for improved pay and benefits, and discusses how modular education approaches could address workforce shortages in the field.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 4, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with John Rheinstein, CP, FAAOP(D), a board certified prosthetist and chair of The Academy's Lower Limb Prosthetics Society. The two talk about Rheinstein's career as a residency director, the "rules of prosthetics," his passion for post-op care, and his involvement in the Lower Limb Prosthetics Society. This episode was recorded live at The Academy's 2023 Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Nashville. 

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

The American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists presents O&P Clinical Care Insiders hosted by Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), a podcast featuring discussions about clinical care topics with leaders of The Academy's Scientific Societies and the O&P profession. Check out the trailer for season one!

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Lindi Mitsou, MSPO, CPO, a clinical applied assistant professor of prosthetics and orthotics at the University of Hartford, and co-chair of the Academy's Fabrication Sciences Society. They discuss recent advancements and trends in prosthetic and orthotic fabrication, highlighting the importance of interprofessional collaboration and the value of continuing to learn new techniques. Mitsou also shares her experience as Connecticut's lead advocate for the So Every BODY Can Move initiative.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Samantha Stauffer, MSOP, CPO, FAAOP, director of research at Independence Prosthetics-Orthotics, to discuss her groundbreaking research on pain and performance in post-amputation patients, featured as a Thranhardt Lecture Award at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting. Samantha shares her journey into pain science, explores central sensitization, and explains the PQRST method for pain assessment. They also discuss strategies for identifying and managing pain, the value of a multidisciplinary approach, and tools to enhance patient outcomes.

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 3, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with the co-chairs of The Academy's Gait Society, Kiley Armstrong, MS, MPO, CPO, Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist at Rise Prosthetics + Orthotics, and Sara Marmar, MS, MPO, LPO, Certified Orthotist/Prosthetist at Orthotic Care Services. The three talk about gait analysis, their passion and interest for gait, pediatrics, and getting involved with The Academy's Gait Society. 

This episode is sponsored by Ottobock.

In episode 8, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Brian Emling, MSPO, CPO, LPO, a prosthetist orthotist at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and chair of The Academy's CAD/CAM Society. The two talk about Emling's journey in O&P, getting young people interested in the profession, the importance of mentorship, his interest in CAD/CAM and the scanners, printers and software involved, and his involvement with The Academy’s CAD/CAM Society.

In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Bruce "Mac" McClellan, CPO, LPO, FISPO, FAAOP(D), a licensed prosthetist-orthotist, chair of the Academy's Public Policy Committee and member of the National O&P Alliance Steering Committee. Together, they delve into the crucial role of the Public Policy Committee in shaping the landscape of the O&P profession. Mac sheds light on the significance of collaborative efforts among like-minded organizations to drive impactful change, unravels the intricate process of petitioning for new codes with CMS, and highlights the challenges posed by a research shortfall within the O&P industry.

In episode 5, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with John T. Brinkmann, CPO, FAAOP(D), an associate professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Northwestern University and chair of The Academy's Behavioral Science Society. The two talk about Brinkmann's career journey and professional choices, the importance of mentorship, educational transitions, critical clinical skills, and behavioral science in O&P.

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 11, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Steve Lindsley, a certified prosthetist and the Academy's liaison to the VA, and member of the Academy's Lower-Limb Orthotics Society. In honor of Veterans Awareness Month, the two talk about Lindsley's journey in providing O&P care in Iraq and the logistics needed to be successful, inspiration  to become a business owner, the importance of continuing education, and technological advances in O&P.

Show notes

Annual Meeting Site: www.academyannualmeeting.org

O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.