2015 aopa national assembly preliminary program

American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association

The premier meeting for orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professionals

The 98th Annual AOPA National Assembly in conjunction with the Texas Academy Chapter MeetingOctober 7-10, 2015The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center On the Riverwalk in San Antonio, TX

PRELIMINARYPROGRAMAND REGISTRATION MATERIALS

For information about the show, scan the QR code with a code reader on your smartphone or visit www.AOPAnet.org.

Exhibits. Education. Networking. CE Credits.Theres a reason why more orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic

professionals choose the AOPA National Assembly. If you are

going to attend a National Convention, why not choose the one

that has it all? The best in business education, advanced clinical

programming from physicians, high-level researchers and top

practitioners, the largest exhibit hall in the United States, and of

course, fun networking events.

Visit www.AOPAnet.org for updates and additional information.

AOPAnet.org

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN.

#AOPA2015

Membership Has its Benefits: Build a Better Business with AOPALearn more at www.AOPAnet.org/join.Members save over $300 on their Assembly registration.

2015 AOPA NATIONAL ASSEMBLY www.AOPAnet.org2

Registration is Openfor the 2015 AOPA National Assembly, Oct. 7-10,

2015, in San Antonio, Texas. Visit www.AOPAnet.org.

AOPA Brings the Big Picture Together in San Antonio, Texas!

CONTENTS 4 Schedule of Events

5 Speakers

6 Education Programs

6 Manufacturers Workshops

7 Product Preview Presentations

8 Thursday Programs

12 Friday Programs

16 Saturday Programs

18 Special Events

20 Exhibits and Sponsors

21 About San Antonio

22 Getting There and Registration

23 Registration Form

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?Practitioners, physicians, technicians, fitters, students,

educational instructors, facility owners, marketing

personnel, residents, office managers, billing specialists,

researchers, manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of

O&P products and services should come to San Antonio to

stay on the cutting edge of their profession and to mix and

mingle with other top professionals from across the country

and around the world. Over 34 CE credits will be available at

this fabulous AOPA National Assembly.

To register online, visit www.AOPAnet.org, and also find updates and additional information.


www.AOPAnet.org 2015 AOPA NATIONAL ASSEMBLY 3

2015 National Assembly

Planning Committee Members

Christopher J. Nolan (Chairman)

Michael Angelico

Michael Arani

Frank H. Bostock, CO, FAAOP

Katie Brinkley, CPO, LPO

James H. Campbell, PhD, CO

Thomas V. DiBello, CO, LO, FAAOP

Traci Dralle

Elizabeth Ginzel, CPO, LPO

Dennis Janisse, CPed

Geza Kogler, PhD, CO

Anita Liberman-Lampear, MA

Karen Lundquist, MBC

Pam Lupo, CO

Mike Magill

Brad Mattear, LO, CPA

Kevin McLoone

Suzanne OConnor, CPO, LPO, FAAOP

Stephanie Olivio-Schulte

Anthony Potter, MBA

Don Shurr, CPO, PT

Brian Stroup

Robb Walker, CPO, LPO

James Weber, MBA

Clinical Sessions Workgroup

James H. Campbell, PhD, CO, FAAOP

Wendy Beattie, CPO, FAAOP

Mark Edwards, MHPE, CP

Don Shurr, CPO, PT

Robb Walker, CPO, LPO

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND

To Sharpen Your Skills and Challenge Your Mind..

You will CHOOSE FROM FIVE

EDUCATION TRACKS providing you

with an expanded menu of relevant

education for orthotists, prosthetists,

technicians, pedorthists and business

managers.

You will FIND OUT THE LATEST IN

SURVIVAL STRATEGIES to prosper in

the new world of patient driven care.

You will learn why value, value, value

will be a driving force in serving

patients and securing payment.

You will HEAR THE LATEST

DEVELOPMENTS in ground

breaking research that will

measure outcomes, improve patient

care and ensure O&Ps survival.

You will participate in UNPRECEDENTED

BUSINESS EDUCATION featuring

experts in O&P business management,

documentation, healthcare reform and

marketing.

You will ATTEND SCIENTIFIC

PROGRAMS focused on scoliosis,

pediatric orthotics, cranial helmets,

microprocessor knees and more that

will further sharpen your clinical skills.

You will be exposed to the most

extensive and impressive roster of

panels, speakers, personalities and plain

old inspiration.

You will absorb the FOUR JAM PACKED

DAYS OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION

covering major challenges in clinical

care and up to the minute briefings on

technology advances.

You will EARN MORE THAN 34 CE

CREDITS and learn how to earn

more CEs through online offerings

all year-round.

You will pursue your O&P Business

Certification through the Special

Program Offerings.

You will see why the INNOVATIVE

FOUR DAY PEDORTHIC EDUCATION

PROGRAM focused on diabetic

treatment, wound care and other

pedorthic specific treatments from

physicians, wound care experts and

diabetes educators will put you far

ahead of the game in your pedorthic

patient care delivery.


Schedule of EventsTUESDAY October 6, 2015

10:00 AM 6:00 PM Registration Open

10:00 AM 6:00 PM Exhibitor Set up

WEDNESDAY October 7, 2015


7:30 AM 3:00 PM Exhibitor Set up

8:00 AM Noon Manufacturers Workshops Tier A

8:00 10:00 AM Manufacturers Workshops Tier B

10:30 AM 12:30 PM Manufacturers Workshops Tier C

1:00 5:00 PM Manufacturers Workshops Tier D

5:15 7:15 PM Welcome to San Antonio Reception

THURSDAY October 8, 2015


7:15 AM Breakfast

7:30 10:00 AM Opening General Session

7:30 8:00 AM Welcome Remarks

8:00 8:30 AM Keynote Presentation

8:45 10:00 AM Thranhardt Presentations

10:00 11:00 AM Break in Hall

11:00 AM Noon Concurrent Education

Prosthetic Symposium

Orthotic Symposium

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education

Noon 1:00 PM Lunch in Exhibit Hall

Noon 1:00 PM TXAAOP Membership Meeting and Luncheon

1:00 2:00 PM Orthotic Poster Presentations

2:00 3:15 PM Concurrent Education


Outcomes Symposium

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education


Prosthetic Education

Orthotic Education

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education

5:15 6:30 PM Happy Hour Reception

6:30 8:00 PM Wine Tasting & Auction

FRIDAY October 9, 2015


7:15 AM Breakfast

7:30 AM 9:00 AM General Session and Business Meeting

9:00 10:00 AM Hamontree Lectures




Orthotic Symposium

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education


1:00 2:00 PM Prosthetic Poster Presentations



O&P Symposium

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education



Orthotic Education

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education

6:30 9:30 PM Topgolf Event (benefiting OPAF)

SATURDAY October 10, 2015


7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 9:00 AM General Session

8:00 AM Noon Exhibit Hall

9:00 10:00 AM Concurrent Education


O&P Education

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education




Orthotic Symposium

Pedorthic Education

Technical Education

Business Education

1:00 5:00 PM Manufacturers Workshops Tier E


All Star Line-up Includes:

Keynote Presentation by Governor Abbott (invited). Receive a Texas sized welcome to the 98th Annual AOPA National Assembly from Texas Governor Greg Abbott (invited). A native Texan, Abbott was born in Wichita Falls and raised in Duncanville. After graduating from The University of Texas with a B.B.A. in Finance, he received his law degree from Vanderbilt University. Shortly after graduating from law school, he was partially paralyzed by a falling tree while jogging. He and his wife, Cecilia, a former school teacher and principal, have been married for 30 years. They live in Austin with their daughter, Audrey.

Rahila Ansari, MD, currently serves as Assistant Professor of Neurology at the V.A. Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. She

is a dedicated clinician scientist with a particular interest in helping patients with neurological weakness.

Louis J. DeCaro, DPM, FACFAP, is a Podiatric Physician who specializes in pediatrics with a special

interest in sports medicine and biomechanics for both adults and children. Dr. DeCaro is President and fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Pediatrics (ACFAP).

Patrick DeHeer, DPM, is Board-certified in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery. He is a leader in the field of

podiatry with years of experience treating the full spectrum of foot and ankle ailments.

Michael Dillon, PhD, is a Senior Lecturer at the National Centre for P&O and an affiliate of the Musculoskeletal Research

Centre, La Trobe University. He specializes in transfemoral prosthetics and ischial containment socket designs. He currently serves as President of ISPO Australia.

Janos Ertl, MD, is Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine and the

Chief of Orthopaedics at Wishard Memorial Hospital, IUSM. Dr. Ertl is a board-certified, orthopaedic surgeon specializing in Adult Trauma and Sports Medicine.

John Fergason, L/CPO, is the Chief Prosthetist at the Center for the Intrepid Military Medical Center and adjunct faculty for the Army Baylor

Doctoral PT Program and the UT Southwestern P&O Program. While at Brooke Army Medical Center he and his staff continue to treat the most complex patients seen as a result of battlefield injury.

Goeran Fiedler, PhD, currently serves as Assistant Professor in the Master of Science in Prosthetics & Orthotics (MSPO) program at the

University of Pittsburgh. He holds graduate degrees in Clinical Engineering, Biomechanics, Health Sciences, and performed his Post-doctoral training at the University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine.

Robert S. Gailey, PhD, PT, is a professor at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of

Physical Therapy. He also has a joint appointment as a Health Science Researcher with Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center and is the Director of the Functional Outcomes Research & Evaluation Center and is a Special Advisor to the Department of Defense for amputee rehabilitation.

Andrea Ikeda, MS, CP, currently serves as a research prosthetist at the Center for the Intrepid at Brooke Army Medical Center.

She received her MS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Virginia.

Katia Langton, DC, CPed,

a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Pedorthist. She speaks regularly to health care

practitioners and policy-makers on the need to implement and standardize foot screenings and comprehensive assessments for diabetic and high risk feet to prevent foot complications and sustain costs in health care as this disease progresses globally.

Teri Rosenbaum-Chou, PhD, earned her doctorate in bioengineering at the University of Utah. Her post-doctoral

work involved prosthetic outcomes research within the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department at the University of Utah.

Elizabeth Russell Esposito, PhD, is a Biomechanics Researcher at the Center for the Intrepid at Brooke Army Medical Center.

She specializes in lower extremity biomechanics with a focus on prosthetic technology and secondary injury prevention.

Urs Schneider, PhD, MD, is head of the Fraunhofer Orthopedics Research Department in Stuttgart. He is a

medical doctor and leads an interdisciplinary engineering team with research focused on improved mobility solutions in rehabilitation and orthopedic surgery.

J. Megan Sions, PhD, DPT, PT, OSC, specializes in evaluation and treatment of muscle and joint dysfunction and vestibular

disorders with special interest in the management of spinal pain and disorders, particularly in older adults.

Jason Wilken, PhD, PT, is the Director of the Military Performance Lab at the Center for the Intrepid at Brooke Army

Medical Center. He is an Adjunct Faculty member for the Army-Baylor University Doctorate Program in Physical Therapy, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

Diana Veneri, EdD, PT, research agenda includes teaching methodologies in physical therapy education and treatment

interventions for persons with neurologic impairment. Most recently, she is developing a research project to study the effectiveness of education materials created specifically for persons with above-knee amputation in developing countries.

Speakers


Manufacturers WorkshopsThe AOPA National Assembly provides a variety of clinical education

in the form of workshops on the first day of the show. Choose

from over 41 workshops featuring the newest products and latest

technology, presented by leading manufacturers and suppliers from

the O&P industry. Because manufacturers workshops are intense,

often hands-on learning experiences, participation is limited to

50 participants per workshop. Workshops will be held during four

different tiers.

Tier A Wednesday, October 7, 8:00 AM Noon

(choose from 6 concurrent workshops)

Tier B Wednesday, October 7, 8:00 10:00 AM


Tier C Wednesday, October 7, 10:30 AM 12:30 PM


Tier D Wednesday, October 7, 1:00 5:00 PM


Tier E Saturday, October 10, 1:00 5:00 PM


Tier A WED 10/78:00 AM Noon

(4 hour- Workshops)

The following workshops in Tier A run concurrently within this track.

Socket Selection Criteria and Alignment Consider-ations (MWA-1)Sponsor: ALPS

Introduction to Vorum CAD/CAM (MWA-2)Sponsor: Vorum

Mechatronic Systems: Solutions for Optimal Patient Outcomes With X3, Genium, C-Leg 4, Compact and Triton Smart Ankle (MWA-3)Sponsor: Ottobock

Tier B WED 10/78:00 10:00 AM(2 hour- Workshops)

The following workshops in Tier B run concurrently within this track.

Customized Orthotic Solutions for Pediatric Hip Challenges (Certification Course) (MWB-1) Sponsor: Allard USA

Preserving Your Companys Legacy: Choose Your Buyer Wisely (MWB-2) Sponsor: MidWest Orthotic Services

Stronger, Smarter, Submers-ible: Introducing the Pli 3 MPC Knee (MWB-3)Sponsor: Freedom Innovations

Prosthetic Feet: Selecting, Adapting, and Customizing to Meet Your Patients Needs (MWB-4) Sponsor: Fillauer Companies Inc.

Technology Advancements in Upper Limb Prosthetics (MWB-5)Sponsor: Fillauer Companies Inc.

Specialty Bracing Solutions: Assessment, Options and Outcomes (MWB-6) Sponsor: Townsend Design

Serving K2 Ambulators with Microprocessor Knee Technology (MWB-7)Sponsor: Ottobock

Maximizing Your Fabri-cation Revenue Utilizing the Cascade Distribution Model (MWB-8)Sponsor: Cascade Orthopedic

OPIE Software; Complete Practice Management (MWB-9) Sponsor: OPIE Software

Got Bone? You Can with the HiFi Interface System (MWB-10) Sponsor: biodesign

Tier C WED 10/710:30 AM 12:30 PM

(2 hour- Workshops)

The following workshops in Tier C run concurrently within this track

Functional Healing Products by ssur; Featuring the Rebound Cartilage Brace & the New Rebound PCL Brace (MWC-1)Sponsor: ssur Americas

AxonBus Prosthetic System with Michelangelo Hand, AxonHook and AxonRotation Review (MWC-2) Sponsor: Ottobock

Freedom Innovations Foot and Ankle Solutions (MWC-3) Sponsor: Freedom Innovations

Improving Lives through Innovation (MWC-4)Sponsor: Ability Dynamics

Profitability Despite Declin-ing Reimbursements: Finding Efficiencies in the Pediatric Orthotics Practice (MWC-5)Sponsor: SureStep

Using DAFOs in Treatment Plans for CP Patients (MWC-6) Sponsor: Cascade DAFO

Stance Control KAFOs and C-Brace (MWC-7) Sponsor: Ottobock

StepWatch Activity Monitor (MWC-8) Sponsor: SPS

Futura (MWC-9) Sponsor: OPIE Software



Innovation Around Knees / Materials and Newly Designed O&P Products (MWA-4)Sponsor: ST&G

An Improved Transfemoral Socket System (MWA-5)Sponsor: WillowWood

OHI Pedorthic Workshop (MWA-6)Sponsor: OHI

Prosthetic Orthotic Pedorthic Technical Business

Education Program


Tier D WED 10/71:00 PM 5:00 PM

(4 hour- Workshops)

The following workshops in Tier D run concurrently within this track

ssur Bionic Solutions Fea-turing Latest Advancements in the RHEO KNEE (MWD-1) Sponsor: ssur Americas

Pedorthic Remedies (MWD-2) Sponsor: Aetrex Worldwide, Inc.

Harmony/EMS Socket Sys-temsTaking Vacuum Fittings to the Next Level (MWD-3) Sponsor: Ottobock

Emergence of Personal Bionics (MWD-4)Sponsor: BiOM

OMEGA (MWD-5) Sponsor: WillowWood

Dynamic TrioGait Anal-ysis, Rehab, and Orthotic InterventionsNew for 2015! (MWD-6)Sponsor: Allard USA



Product Preview TheaterEarn CE Credits and learn in a lively theater atmosphere right on

the exhibit hall show floor. The Product Preview Theater (PPT)

gives manufacturers the opportunity to showcase their products

in a high energy setting. Please visit www.AOPAnet.org for a

complete list of PPT Presentations and Times. PPTs scheduled at

press time include the following:

Allard USA Achieving Success with Carbon Composite AFOs

Aspen Medical The Peak Scoliosis Bracing System - An Innovative Treatment for Adults

Cascade Orthopedic Supply, Inc. Advancements in Polypropylene Prepreg Composites

Freedom Innovations Stronger, Smarter, Submersible; Introducing the New Pli 3 MPC Knee

Freedom Innovations Ankle Solutions

Medi USA Medi Panthera CF Feet: Innovations in Carbon Technology

OPIE Software OPIE and Data in O&P

Orthomerica SmartSoc Scanning Technology for Orthotics, Prosthetics, & Pedorthics

ssur Americas ssurs New Rebound PCL Brace; a Functional Healing Product

ssur K2 Platform: Modular Solutions for the Low Active User

Ottobock Redefining KAFO Outcomes: The Ottobock C-Brace

Providing the Next Level in Fitness Prosthetics for a Healthy Lifestyle

Mechatronic Feet: Whats New in Microprocessor Ankles and Feet

Whats New in UL (Products, Technical Tips and Therapy)

WillowWood SmartTemp Liner Technology

Tier E SAT 10/10

1:00 5:00 PM

The following workshops in Tier E run concurrently within this track.

A Breakthrough in Socket Design: The Infinite Socket from LIM Innovations (MWE-1)Sponsor: LIM Innovations

2015 Update: Best Business Practices/ABC Accreditation StandardsImproving Your Business While Increasing Your Compliancy (MWE-2)Sponsor: American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics (ABC)

Scoliosis Treatment for the Mature Spine (MWD-7) Sponsor: Aspen Medical Products

A Breakthrough in Socket Design: The Infinite Socket from LIM Innovations (MWD-8) Sponsor: LIM Innovations

The Dual Application Track of Stance Control Orthoses: Managing Your Acute and Chronic Patient Populations (MWD-9) Sponsor: Becker Orthopedic

Touch Bionics Upper Limb Prosthetic Solutions (MWD-10)Sponsor: Touch Bionics

Latest Advancements in Orthotic Management for Diabetes using the OWLS System and Introducing the New Fuzion Orthotic Line of Products from Orthomerica Products, Inc. (MWD-11) Sponsor: Orthomerica

Pedorthics To Fab or Not to Fab (MWE-3) Sponsor: Janisse Orthotic Effects, LLC (JFX) a division of National Pedorthic Services Inc. (NPS)

3-D Printing Workshop (MWE-4) Sponsor: e-Nable

Approved Clinical Mentor Course (ACM) (MWE-5) (Full Day Program)Sponsor: National Commission on O&P Education (NCOPE)

Education Program


7:15 AM Breakfast

7:30 10:00 AM Opening General Session

7:30 8:00 AM Welcome Remarks Charles H. Dankmeyer, CPO, AOPA President

8:00 8:30 AM Keynote Presentation Texas Governor Greg Abbott (invited)

Receive a Texas size welcome to the 98th Annual AOPA National Assembly from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. A native Texan, Abbott was born in Wichita Falls and raised in Duncanville. After graduating from The University of Texas with a B.B.A. in Finance, he received his law degree from Vanderbilt University. Shortly after graduating from law

school, he was partially paralyzed by a falling tree while jogging. He and his wife, Cecilia, a former school teacher and principal, have been married for 30 years. They live in Austin with their daughter, Audrey.

8:45 10:00 AM Award Winning Thranhardt Lectures (C1) Dont miss the best of the best at the award

winning Thranhardt Lecture Series. Launched by a gift from J.E. Hanger in memory of Howard R. Thranhardt, CP, the series offers an honorarium to the winners. This years winning presentations are outlined below. (The following sessions run consecutively within this program.)


Choose from five concurrent education tracks.

Prosthetic Symposium: New Findings in the Treatment of Dysvascular Foot Disease (C2)Michael Dillon, PhDLuigi Pascarella, MDDonald Shurr, CPO, PT

This symposium focuses on the recent research on the care and treatment of dysvascular foot disease. The speakers will discuss classic functional teachings in light of the recent research about dysvascular foot disease and wound healing.

Orthotic Symposium: Contemporary Orthotic Management of Muscle Weakness (C3)Rahila Ansari, MDGary Bedard, CO, FAAOPAndreas Kannenberg, MD, PhD

Our panel of experts will discuss contemporary orthotic treatment methods for muscle weakness.

The Next Global Pandemic (P1)Katia Langton, DC, CPed

Diabetes, ulcers and amputations are poised to overwhelm nations and cripple health care budgets. This disease is skyrocketing globally. A critical paradigm shift in treating the diabetic foot is necessary to prepare for the increasing incidences and severity of the disease and its complications.

Technician Certification and Central Fabrication Accreditation Update (T1)Jim Lawson, Director of Outreach Services, ABC

Receive an update on technician certification and how to get your central fabrication accredited.

DocumentationCreate Audit-Proof Patient Charts (B1)Joseph McTernan, Director of Coding and Reimbursement Services, Education and Programming, AOPA

Attendees at this session will learn how to prepare documentation in a way that will help to lessen the impact of audits down the road. Topics of discussion will include documenting not only the what but also the why; maintaining clinical consistency when documenting; what the auditors are looking for; and adding documentation after the fact. Attendees will leave the session with a thorough understanding of improving audit success and documentation.

Noon 1:00 PM Lunch in the Exhibit Hall

Noon 1:00 PM Texas Chapter of the Academy Annual Membership Meeting Luncheon

Join the leadership of the Texas Academy Chapter for an update on whats happening with your organization and profession.

1:00 - 2:00 PM Orthotic Poster Presentations

Poster presentations provide a dedicated time for attendees to interact with research authors and investigators. Participate in the poster presentations to ask questions and learn more about the research. Orthotic poster authors will be available to answer questions and discuss specifics on their research. Prosthetic poster presentations will take place on Friday.

Can Individuals with Transtibial Amputation Reduce the Metabolic Demand of Walking Using Real-time Visual Feedback? (C1A)Elizabeth Russell Esposito, PhD

Identify if real-time visual feedback on both center of mass sway and thigh muscle activity can decrease the metabolic demand of walking for individuals with below knee amputation.

Balance-Confidence May Help Explain Physical Function and Community-Integration among Individuals with Unilateral Transfemoral and Transtibial Amputations (C1B)J. Megan Sions, PhD, DPT, PT, OCS

Balance-confidence may be an overlooked factor in the treatment of individuals with transfemoral and transtibial amputations. Our research findings indicate that regardless of age, body mass index, amputation-level, and presence of residual limb pain, individuals with low balance-confidence have worse self-reported function, walking performance, and community-engagement when compared to their peers with high balance-confidence.

High Prevalence of Cranial Asymmetry May Exist in Infants with Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy (NBPP) (C1C)Megan Tang, MS

The incidence of cranial asymmetry in infants with NBPP was examined by obtaining circumferential molds of the cranium. A high prevalence of plagiocephaly was observed (71%), which suggests tummy time should be encouraged in order to potentially reduce the chance of cranial asymmetry.

Immediate Postoperative Prosthesis, a Comparative Analysis (C1D)Art Shea, CPO

This research is a comparative analysis of Immediate Postoperative Prosthesis (IPOP) vs. non IPOP patients following below knee amputations. An explanation of the IPOP protocol will be given and the medical results reviewed.

10:00 11:00 AM Break in Exhibit Hall

THURSDAY October 8, 2015 Prosthetic Orthotic Pedorthic Technical Business

Education Program

BESTof SHOW


2:00 PM - 3:15 PM Concurrent Education


Prosthetic Symposium: Next Generation Transfemoral Sockets (C4)Randall Alley, CPJay Martin, CP, LP, FAAOP

This course examines the latest in transfemoral socket research and development. There are a number of currently funded research projects focused on the development of transfemoral sockets that radically depart from conventional socket design approaches. We are seeing the beginnings of a fundamental shift in how transfemoral sockets can be fit to users, including new materials and new socket shapes.

Outcomes Symposium (C5)Lee Childers, PhD, MSPO, CPGoeran Fiedler, PhDKeith Frost, CPO/Michael Wininger, PhDJason Kahle, MSMS, CPO, FAAOP/Tyler Klenow, MSOP, CPTCara Negri, CP Teri Rosenbaum-Chou, PhD

Top researchers and practitioners share their experiences with:

classifying lower limb amputees into the Medicare K levels;

the dartfish Express iPad application for gait analysis;

comparative analysis of quality of life approaches in O&P;

outcome measures resource for the orthotic and prosthetic clinician;

step-by-step variability as an outcome variable for lower limb prosthesis alignment;

observational gait scores as outcome measures in O&P.

Pedorthic Clinical Care (P2)

Afternoon Pedorthic education includes how to use research data and advanced technology to increase clinical care outcomes. (The following sessions run consecutively within this program.)

Business Discussions Where Curious Souls Engage with Ideas and Each Other, Inspired by TED (B2)

Join us for a review of four interesting TED Talks as we preview the talks and then proceed with a lively discussion on the merits of the talk. The talks include The New Bionics that Let us Run, Climb and Dance by Hugh Herr, Living Beyond Limits by Amy Purdy, A Prosthetic Arm that Feels by Dr. Todd Kuiken, and My Twelve Pairs of Legs by Aimee Mullins.

TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks. TED began in 1984 as a conference where technology, entertainment and design converged, and today covers almost all topicsfrom science to business to global issuesin more than 100 languages.

3:15 3:30 PM Break

3:30 - 5:00 PM Concurrent Education


Prosthetic Free Paper Session: Caring for the Transfemoral Amputee (C6)

(The following presentations run consecutively within this program.)

The Metabolic Demand of Walking for Young, Active Individuals with Transfemoral Amputation (C6A)Elizabeth Russell-Esposito, PhD

Young, active individuals with below knee amputations can attain equivalent metabolic costs as able-bodied individuals when walking or running at the same speed. This study evaluates the metabolic cost of walking for individuals with above knee amputations across a wide range of speeds.

A Virtual Reality Rehabilitation Program Improves Mediolateral Stability in a Patient with Unilateral Transfemoral Amputation (C6B)Riley Sheehan, PhDJason Wilken, PT, PhD

A virtual reality rehabilitation program was successfully used to improve lateral stability in an individual with unilateral transfemoral amputation. The program consisted of increasing magnitudes of continuous changes to walking speed and the pitch-and-roll of the treadmill platform. Find out if the stability improvements were consistent and retained during normal walking and perturbed walking.

Prediction of the Skeletal ML to Improve Accuracy of Ischial Containment Sockets (C6C)Michael Dillon, PhD

Accurate measurement of the transfemoral residuum and pelvis is critical for well-fitting and comfortable ischial containment sockets. Unfortunately, measuring the Skeletal ML dimension is invasive and unreliable. This research demonstrates that the Skeletal ML can be predicted using simple anthropometric measurements (e.g., sex, body mass) with an average error of 1/4.

Changes to Limb Kinetics Using a Microprocessor Controlled Ankle-Foot System (C6D)David Moser, PhD

This presentation will compare the effect of with and without microprocessor controlled ankle-foot function on residual limb and intact limb joining kinetics for inclined walking.

Prosthetic Orthotic Pedorthic Technical Business THURSDAY (Contd.) October 8, 2015

Education Program

TEDTALKS

Research = The Future of Pedorthics (P2A)Geza Kogler, PhD, CO

Join us for an interesting discussion on how research is the key to the future of pedorthic clinical care.

Considerations When Using In-Shoe Pressure Monitoring for Patients with Peripheral Neuropathy (P2B)David Knapp, BSME, MEd, CPO

New pressure monitoring technologies allow for the measurement of in-device pressures in real-time. Explore the possibilities and limitations of this technology.

Fabrication Method of High Activity Partial Foot Prosthesis (T2)Scott Wimberley, CPTO, CPA

This lecture is a how to guide for fabrication of a high activity partial foot prosthesis for sports or running. This new modular system utilizes a posterior dynamic strut and Revo unloader cuff section.




Prosthetic Free Paper Session: Caring for the Transfemoral Amputee (C6) (Contd.)


Orthotic Free Papers: Improving Clinical Outcomes for Better Patient Care (C7)


Biomechanical Principles of Load Transfer in Transfemoral Sockets: Ischial Containment Versus Subischial Technique (C6E)Malte Bellmann, Dipl.-Ing

A novel study design has been developed to objectify force transmission principles in three types of transfemoral sockets (CAT-CAM, MAS, and subischial socket). First results suggest that the general force transmission does not differ significantly between ischium/ramus containment sockets (MAS and CAT-CAM) during standing and walking in different gait situations. However, with the subischial socket that does not contact the pelvis, significant differences can be identified compared to ischium/ramus containment sockets.

Perception of Functional Change After a Microprocessor Knee Trial is Related to Improved Motor Performance (C6F)Charla Howard, Research Associate

The impact of switching from a mechanical to a microprocessor knee (MPK) was evaluated. The objective clinical outcomes and subjective reports were assessed in 4 novice MPK users with a BAB design. After wearing MPK for 4 weeks twice (B1 and B2 phases), we found largely improved motor performance that correlated within subjects with their perception of functional changes in several domains.

Transfemoral Vacuum: An Innovation In Advancing Amputee Clinical Care (C6G)Lori Pipinich, CP

Hear innovative and comprehensive approaches to successfully apply TF vacuum technologies in a practical and systematic methodology that can be easily applied in any clinical setting. The uniqueness of what will be taught in this session is its flexibility in technical approaches and the breadth of patient applicability.

Power Knee Extended User Profile: Learnings from Multiple Fittings of Powered Microprocessor Knee Technology for Persons with Bilateral Transfemoral and Hip Disarticulation Level Amputations (C6H)Kurt Gruben, MSBE, CPO

Review various aspects of the extended user profile application of the power knee, including characteristics of the existing user population, current best practices of rehabilitation, challenges faced, and the general user perception of function.

Bone Capture and Control in High-Fidelity Transfemoral Interface Using X-Rays (C6I)Randall Alley, BSc, CP

The use of X-rays will demonstrate the ability of High-Fidelity Interface to minimize bone motion within the socket and the importance of this control to the patients comfort, confidence and performance.

Immediate Effects on Gait and Static Standing Balance of SureStep BigShot SMOs (C7A)Megan Smith, CO

Hear a case study that examines the effects of an SMO on the gait and single limb balance of a 7-year old child. Gait and single limb stability improved with the SureStep BigShot SMO.

Characteristics of Ankle Foot Orthoses in the Management of Neuromuscular Disorders (C7B)Beatrice Janka, MPO, CO

Review preliminary data from a pilot study that indicates that AFOs, when carefully selected and customized, can be used to successfully manage pathologic neuromuscular conditions.

Physical Therapists Clinical Decision Making Regarding Orthotic Utilization in Persons with Hemiplegia following Stroke (C7C)Carolyn Utsey, PT, PhD

Learn the results of a qualitative research study which utilized semi-structured interviews to investigate the physical therapists perceptions of the analysis and treatment of hemiparetic gait.

Functional Outcomes of a Custom AFO (C7D)Noel Chladek, CO

Review the functional outcomes of 1,969 patients fit with custom AFOs collected over a four-year period from post-fitting surveys completed by practitioners at the time of initial fitting.

Custom Carbon AFO for Plantarflexor Augmentation (C7E)Michael Dailey, CO, MBA

While a molded thermoplastic ankle foot orthosis (AFO) will control ankle motion through swing phase to prevent foot drop, it does not possess responsive attributes to assist in push-off to propel the body into the next gait cycle. In fact, the thermoplastics used in the fabrication of AFOs have response characteristics that decrease as flexion increases. Since the dynamic response characteristics of a brace built of carbon increases with flexion, the carbon ankle foot orthosis (CAFO) has demonstrated not only to prevent foot drop but also to store and return energy at push off. The CAFO is also lighter in weight, lower profile and easier to hide under clothing. It has little of the stigma attached to wearing bulkier plastic or metal braces, and patient compliance seems to improve.

Comparing Plantarflexor Power and Function using Carbon Fiber Versus Traditional Thermoplastic Ankle Foot Orthoses (C7F)Michael Dailey, CO, MBA

Hear results that suggest improved plantarflexor power to improve activities of daily living. This case report shows, for the first time, that wearing CAFOs allowed increased plantarflexor power that was associated with improved walking ability in an adult.

Pedorthic Education: Improving Pedorthic Clinical Care with Outcomes and Treatment Considerations for Pathomechanics (P3) Outcomes = Future of PedorthicsScott Williamson, CAE

Healthcare is changing and Pedorthics is no exception. There is tremendous pressure on all healthcare providers to prove their worth in the health care economy. You have a choice: become a healthcare professional who documents appropriately, provides a true clinical intervention and is an integral part of a team of professionals caring for your patients, or fall backwards into the role of a mere salesperson, supplying the parts needed by professionals who are caring for your former clients. In this session, we will discuss real world ways you can start to demonstrate your value and remain relevant in the future healthcare world.

THURSDAY (Contd.) October 8, 2015

Education ProgramProsthetic Orthotic Pedorthic Technical Business Remember the Alamo


The Evolution of the Orthotic Oven for Heating Thermoplastic Sheet Materials (T3)Gary Bedard, CO, FAAOP

The process ergonomics of clinical orthotic thermoforming and orthotic flat sheet oven design have never been analyzed to provide a means to best select the type of oven that optimizes production outcome. In this presentation the three methods of heating will be discussed as they improve the preparation of sheet materials for encapsulation vacuum thermoforming. A literature review will illustrate the organic rather than the engineering based evolution of oven design.

Best Business Practices for Todays Savvy Manager (B3)


Growing Your O&P Practice By Using the Techniques of Big Data Analysis (B3A)Jeff Brandt, CPOMark Ford, Director of Marketing, OPIEPaul Gudonis, MBA

In an environment characterized by increased competition, reimbursement pressures, and growth challenges, certain O&P practices are able to meet these challenges by using Big Data analytics. With the ability to capture more data about patients, outcomes, payments, and cash flow, O&P business executives can turn this information into strategic actions to direct their operations.

2015 Compliance Update: Best Business Practices and How to Comply with Accreditation Standards (B3B)Jim Lawson, Director of Outreach Services, ABC

Join us as we learn and discuss best business practices and ways to help your practice be compliant with the standards youre required to follow. Surveyors visit locations every day, well review their findings and use them to be compliant and help avoid frivolous audits of your business. Well discuss trending issues and how to best prepare documentation to be complaint. Well review best compliance practices, how to understand which standards apply to your business; charting that supports your treatment and billing; marketing opportunities and how to keep more of your dollars by defending against audits.

THURSDAY (Contd.) October 8, 2015

Education Program

6:30 8:00 PM Wine Tasting & Auction

Everyone knows that the Wine Tasting & Auction is an important component to support the O&P PAC and the legislative activities of the profession. What everyone does not know is:

The Wine Tasting & Auction is a fun event for everyone!

Even though the registration is $150 you receive a $100 credit towards your first winning bid.

There is much, much more to bid on than just wineprevious event items included jewelry, Tiffany Crystal, cigars, a vacation, bourbon and more.

You will have a chance to sample wines from various wineries as well as partake from an open bar.

Enjoy the camaraderie as members from all aspects of the profession unite for an important cause.

5:15 6:30 PM Happy Hour in Exhibit Hall

What better way of wrapping up a full day of learning than spending an hour in the exhibit hall, enjoying refreshments and networking with your colleagues and exhibitors? The Happy Hour is hosted by exhibitors. A list of sponsors will be included in the final program and on the website to make it easier for you to partake in the fun. The Happy Hour reception is included in your full conference registration.

WINE TASTING8th Annual AOPA

AUCTION&


AOPA Membership Has its Benefits:

Build a Better Business with AOPA

Learn more at www.AOPAnet.org/join

Members save over $300 on their Assembly registration

The show was one of

our best ever! Activity

at our booth was off

the charts and we could

hardly keep up! Thanks

to the AOPA team for

everything they do!

What participants said about the last meeting


7:15 AM Breakfast

7:30 AM General Session and AOPA Membership Meeting

Participate in an interesting update on whats happening with your organization and profession. Receive an update from the AOPA Treasurer and learn what accomplishments your membership organization has made over the past year. An awards program will followjoin us to honor the following:

Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

Legislative Advocacy Award Winner

The Otto and Lucille Becker Orthotic Award

The Edwin and Kathryn Arbogast Prosthetic Award

Thranhardt Lecture Winners

9:00 - 10:00 AM Hamontree Lectures (B4)

The Sam E. Hamontree, CP(E) Business Education Award was created to recognize the best business paper submitted for presentation at the AOPA National Assembly. This award is envisioned as a counterpart to the Thranhardt Award given each year to the best clinical abstract(s). The audience will be invited to cast their vote for the award winner. The winner will be announced at the Saturday morning General Session. (The following presentations run consecutively within this program.)

11:00 AM - Noon Concurrent Education


Prosthetic Sports Symposium: Wrestling with Limb Deficiencies (C9)Michael Baria, MDNick Ackerman, CPOJohn Fergason, CPO

Join us for an inspirational and motivational symposium focusing on real-life experiences from an amputee wrestler, practitioner and physician. Help your patients gain the confidence to succeed in their personal goal by providing the most appropriate prosthetic care.

Orthotic Symposium: Exoskeleton Systems and Applications (C10)Urs Schneider, PhD, MDAdditional Speakers TBA

Exoskeletal power assist in orthopedic rehabilitation and treatment in neurologic deficiencies will change quality of life and training intensities in the near future. New actuation approaches, control inputs from movement kinetics and kinematic but also biosignals are shown and controversially discussed in a German American session.

Pedorthic Education (P4) Age Specific Biomechanical Podopediatric Protocols (Ages 1-18)Louis DeCaro, DPM

Understand age specific protocols of treatment of overuse injuries, flat feet, in-toeing, low tone, neuromuscular child specific diagnoses, and more. This presentation will review the most common foot and ankle pathologies associated with podopediatrics involving orthotic treatments.

Fabrication of an Adjustable Prosthetic Socket Using RevoLimb and BOA Technology (T4)Glenn Hutnick, CPO, CTP, FAAOP

This lecture will prepare both the technician and clinician on the various methods of fabricating and designing a RevoLimb system. Design capacity will be reviewed as well clinical utilization.

Lessons LearnedAudits and Appeals (B5)Joseph McTernan, Director of Coding and Reimbursement Services, Education and Programming, AOPA

Attendees at this session will have the opportunity to review examples of both good and bad documentation and understand how it can mean the difference between a paid claim and a denied claim. Strategies to create processes that ensure documentation is done correctly will also be discussed.


Make Your Online O&P Presence Unforgettable in Every Way (B4A)Christina Throndson, Web Marketing Manager

Are you using a run-of-the-mill approach to online marketing? Learn how to take advantage of the latest remarketing and social listening tools, valuable search engine optimization, search engine marketing, and social media marketing techniques that will enhance your customers experience.

Control Your Marketing Message by Controlling the Medium (B4B)Thomas McGovern, Managing Partner

There are all kinds of economic pressures facing orthotic and prosthetic patient care facilities: RAC audits, facility accreditation, OSHA and Medicare regulations. A successful O&P facility needs a business plan which includes a marketing plan. Owners must use basic marketing principles to find new referral sources and keep the ones they already have.

Managers of Health Care are not Trained to Succeed in Business (B4C)Tyler Ritchey, MBC, CP, ACM

As the health care industry continues to change and evolve at a rapid pace, sound management practices become increasingly critical for the function and survival of health care organizations. The purpose of this study is to understand through a review of the literature, the current landscape of the health care industry, the need for qualified individuals to lead, manage and effect change in todays organizations. Core competencies to manage successfully health care organizations include the ability to self-manage, adapt to change, make key decisions, analyze, and evaluate situations and communicate effectively to name a few. This study could be used to better understand and further analyze current medical education and curriculum and current processes of training and promotion within organizations.


FRIDAY October 9, 2015

Education ProgramProsthetic Orthotic Pedorthic Technical Business


1:00 - 2:00 PM Prosthetic Poster Presentations

Poster presentations provide a dedicated time for attendees to interact with research authors and investigators. Prosthetic poster authors will be available to answer questions and discuss specifics about their research. A complete list of poster presentations is available online at www.AOPAnet.org.



Prosthetic Symposium: Management of the Partial Hand Amputee (C11)Jack Uellendahl, CPOMatt Mikosz, CPElaine Uellendahl, CP

Partial hand amputations have many possible presentations due to the vast number of possible hand configurations that result from traumatic injury. Limited joint range of motion, hypersensitivity, scarring, and a lack of strength in the remaining portions of the hand may be complicating factors. This course will review the current prosthetic options and indications for use of the following: opposition prostheses, which are usually strong and robust and well suited for manual tasks, body-powered devices driven by proximal joints appropriate for fitting partial fingers through carpal/metacarpal levels, and powered fingers. Powered fingers provide many of the desirable features of multi-functional hands including conformable grasp with the ability to rotate the powered thumb from an opposed to non-opposed position. Prosthesis design and construction techniques will conclude the presentation.

O&P Symposium: Enhancing Your Clinical Practice by Applying a Combined Approach of Evidence and Experience (C12)John Fergason, L/CPOJason Wilken, PhD, MPT

Recent advances in prosthetic/orthotic technology and therapeutic interventions have great potential to improve the function for individuals who have experienced lower extremity trauma. These advances have wide ranging implications for prosthetists/orthotists, physical therapists and physicians. The following topics will be addressed in the context of completed and ongoing research from the Center for the Intrepid at San Antonio Military Medical Center including the experience of caring for injured service members.

Rapid translation of research findings from the Military Performance Laboratory into the clinical care of patients.

Benefits and limitations of the latest prosthetic devices, and how device choice can impact an individuals ability to perform specific activities.

Compare and contrast how conventional carbon fiber feet, powered prosthetic devices and dynamic carbon fiber ankle foot orthoses differ in the way they restore limb function.

Costs and benefits of implementing objective outcomes assessments as part of clinical care.

Importance of device specific physical therapy training on resulting outcomes for advanced orthotics like the Intrepid Dynamic Exoskeletal Orthosis.

Contouring Orthotic Sidebars in a Fixture Based System to Improve Biomechanical Symbiosis in a Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (T5)Gary Bedard, CO, FAAOP

This research discusses matching the dynamic requirements of a knee ankle foot orthosis with the fixture based metal contouring and the modern era of fabrication.

DME MAC Medicare Update Session (B6)Stacie McMichel, CERT Coordinator/Provider Outreach & Education Consultant

Representatives from the four DME MACs will outline recent Medicare updates and changes to the Medicare program that affect DMEPOS suppliers. Jurisdiction-specific announcements will also be provided and there will be time for questions at the end of the session.

3:15 3:30 PM Break

EquinusRole In Foot Pathomechanics (P5A)Patrick DeHeer, DPM

The role of equinus in lower extremity pathomechanics and its non-surgical treatment is examined in this presentation, including a definition of equinus, its examination, its biomechanics, and its surgical and non-surgical treatment.

Sports Specific Pedorthic Management of the Foot (P5B)Donna Robertson, CPed

This presentation is designed to provide an opportunity to learn about lower extremity biomechanics and alignment issues of the athlete (pre-injury and post-injury assessment), sports specific injuries (acute and chronic stages), sports injury prevention, sports pedorthic management of the injuries, including specific foot orthotic assessment (materials) along with shoe evaluation, specifics and selection. Principle, practice and analysis of foot pressure static and dynamic assessments will be reviewed.

FRIDAY (Contd.) October 9, 2015

Education Program

Pedorthic Education: Treatment Considerations (P5)



AOPA Membership Has its Benefits:

Build a Better Business with AOPA

Learn more at www.AOPAnet.org/join

Members save over $300 on their Assembly registration




Prosthetic Free Papers: Treating the Transtibial Amputee (C13)

Join us for a free paper session to review case studies, research and clinical evidence on treating the Transtibial amputee. (The following sessions run consecutively within this program.)

Report on a Users Experiences with Bilateral Upper Limb Myoelectric Custom Orthoses (C14A)Haley Branch, CPOBrandon Sampson, CP

This case study will describe, present, and discuss the experiences of a user who was fit with the orthosis following a bilateral brachial plexus injury (BPI) which was sustained in June 2013 following a motorcycle accident.

Functional Benefits of a Custom Upper Limb Myoelectric Orthosis on Brachial Plexus Injury, Following 12 Months of Use (C14B)Stefanie Dunaway, MS, OTR/LHaley Branch, CPO

This case study examines the experiences and functional outcomes of an end-user, with a Brachial Plexus Injury (BPI), over his first year of using an upper extremity (UE) custom myoelectric elbow-wrist-hand orthosis (EWHO).

Success of the IDEO Device in Reducing Severe Lower Limb Weight Bearing Pain: A Case Report (C14C)Andrea Ikeda, MS, CP

Review a case study that shows how a custom designed dynamic response device was used to reduce lower extremity weight bearing pain in a severely injured individual.

Powered Hip Joint: Unexplored Clinical Opportunity of Powered Prosthetics (C14D)David Langlois, MASc, Jr. Eng.

As powered lower-limb prosthetic technology slowly becomes the standard offering for ankles and knees,

Review of Prosthetic Hydraulic AnklesClinical Evidence, Benefits and Research up to 2015 (C13D)Saeed Zahedi, PhD, FREng, RDIDavid Moser, PhD

This presentation provides the latest literature review of all studies carried out during the past 7 years, aimed at determining the clinical outcome measures in using a prosthetic hydraulic ankle.

A Novel Approach in Biomechanical Investigation of Terrain Adaptation Capability of Microprocessor Controlled Feet (C13E)Bjrn Altenburg, Dipl.-Ing.(FH)

Review a novel measuring track that helps to objectively measure gait with abrupt terrain changes, and expanding the range of biomechanical test scenarios. Tests with different microprocessor controlled feet showed functional gain for MPF with real time control and high range of motion. However, most available MPFs do not have real time control and cannot adjust in time to fully extend.

A Novel Prosthetic Foot Design Shows Anatomical like Stiffness Properties (C13F)Gudfinna Halldorsdottir, MSc

A novel prosthetic foot design and its mechanical properties are presented and its relation to clinical function are discussed.

Voluntary Adjustment of Ankle Neutral Position when Performing Predefined Activities of Daily Living (C13G)Magnus Oddsson, MSc

Uncover the potential of mind controlled prosthetics and view a direct comparison with todays technology. Direct user control of prosthetics may lead to more accurate control and increase compliance using the prosthesis.

Comparison of Quality of Life in People with Partial Foot or Transtibial Amputation (C13A)Michael Dillon, PhD

Hear a study showing that quality of life was comparable in people with partial foot and transtibial amputation. Quality of life was influenced by advancing age, time living with diabetes and the presence of diabetic complications (e.g., retinopathy), not amputation at either the partial foot or transtibial level.

Case Study Comparison of Powered Ankle Foot and Energy Storing and Returning Foot in Traumatic Transtibial Amputee Using Patient-reported and Performance-based Outcome Measures (C13B)Brian Kaluf, BSE, CP

Review a case study that highlights how patient-reported and performance-based outcome measures can be used to document the benefits of a powered ankle-foot prosthesis. The powered-ankle foot prosthesis improved straight line walking but the energy storing and returning foot performed better in high impact multi-directional ambulation.

The World is Not Flat: Justifying Prosthetic Feet with Multi-Axial Features Being Used on Uneven Terrain (C13C)Lee Childers, PhD, MSPO, CP

Feet incorporating multi-axial features have a Medicare L-Code (L-5986) and are traditionally prescribed to individuals expected to negotiate uneven environments. However, there is limited evidence that links multi-axial prosthetic ankle stiffness to gait stability. This presentation will define the effect of multi-axial stiffness on gait stability.

other clinical applications of this technology remain unexplored. This presentation describes development, test methods and main outcomes associated with the first application of powered prosthetic technology to the hip joint.

The Effect of Implementing Unloader Braces in Treatment Protocols for Knee Osteoarthritis (C14E)Marjorie Albohm, MS, ATC

This presentation provides a practical recommendation on how to implement unloader braces into the guideline recommended treatment algorithm of symptomatic knee OA.

A Randomized Controlled Cross-Over Trial to Investigate Locomotor Capacities when Using an Electronic Stance Control Orthosis (C14F)Thomas Schmalz, PhD

This presentation demonstrates the biomechanical and clinical patient benefits of the SCO mode of E-MAG Active as compared to the locked knee mode.

Perceived Orthotic Function and Difficulty of Activities of Daily Living with the C-Brace and Conventional KAFOs (C14G)Andreas Kannenberg, PhD, MD

This study shows that the microprocessor controlled C-Brace improves perceived orthotic function, easing the execution of many activities of daily living as compared to conventional KAFOs (locked and stance control).

Comparing Functional Design Characteristics of Dynamic Response Prosthetic Feet in K-Level-3 Unilateral Lower Limb Amputees (C13H)Vibhor Agrawal, PhDRobert Gailey, PhD

This novel research describes the functional differences between various designs of dynamic response prosthetic feet in unilateral transtibial and transfemoral amputees. Additionally, it measures the outcome that can be utilized in a clinic for documenting prosthetic foot choices.

Biomechanical Analysis to Show the Use of Hydraulic Ankles Compared to Passive Ankles for K2 Users (C13I)Jeroen Nijman, MSc

The goal of this pilot study was to find the advantages of using a hydraulic ankle for K2 users. Findings on loading, balance, and toe clearance are presented.


Education Program

Orthotic Free Papers: Treatment Considerations from Top to Bottom (C14)

Join us for a free paper session to review clinical data, case studies and treatment protocols. (The following sessions run consecutively within this program.)



Specializing in Upper Limb Prosthetics (C15)

Fitting upper-limb prostheses is complicated and challenging. Learn the latest techniques in upper-limb prosthetic rehabilitation from experienced prosthetists. (The following sessions run consecutively within this program.)

Activities of Daily Living with the Multi-functional Michelangelo Hand as Compared to Conventional Myoelectric Hands (C15A)Andreas Kannenberg, MD, PhD

This study shows that multi-functional myoelectric hands may reduce perceived difficulty of performing activities of daily living, especially bi-manual activities in individuals with a transradial amputation.

Is There a Difference Between Voluntary Opening or Voluntary Closing Terminal Devices in Lift Capacity and Manipulation? (C15B)M. Jason Highsmith, PT, DPT, PhD, CP, FAAOP

This study compares the differences in lift capacity and the manipulative performance between voluntary opening and voluntary closing, body powered upper-limb prostheses in a sample of persons with unilateral transradial amputation.

Comparison of Two Physically Similar 5 Digit Partial Hand Presentations (C15C)Nathan Wagner, LPO, CPO, OTR/L

This comparative analysis of two similar partial hand presentations highlights the importance of an individualized approach. Functional outcomes will be described with regard to individualized goals and standardized assessments.

Is There A Correlation Between Activity Monitoring Recorded In Multi-Grip Myoelectric Hands and Functional Performance? (C15D)Andrea Giovanni Cutti, MEng, PhDMartina Luchetti, PsyD

New upper-limb prosthetic technologies record the number of opening and closing cycles performed by a patient. Does this measure have clinical implications? The aim of this presentation is to provide preliminary evidences about the existence of this relationship.

Surveying the Interest of Individuals with Upper Limb Loss in Novel Prosthetic Control Techniques (C15E)Susannah Engdahl, BS

Novel prosthetic control techniques require interfacing directly with an individuals nervous system. Given the surgically invasive nature of these techniques, it is important to understand whether individuals with upper limb loss are willing to try them. The goal of this work was to evaluate general interest in surgically invasive and noninvasive prosthetic control techniques.

Cabling and Activation of Body Power Upper Limb Prostheses (C15F)Gerald Stark, MSEM, CPO/L, FAAOP

Review the role of cabling and body power activation in design and available literature. Discover the material options, biomechanical placement, and optimization of body power activation.

Physiologic Function and Prosthetic Emulation of the Human Hand (C15G)Gerald Stark, MSEM, CPO/L, FAAOP

Not only does the human hand play a critical functional role, but it also serves as an often-overlooked instrument of human social communication, sensing, exploration, and learning. Examine the technical parameters of the hand, as well as control feedback, functional priorities, and cognitive engagement within the prosthesis.

Roundtable Discussion: Future of Pedorthics (P6)Dennis Dillard, CPedDennis Janisse, CPed Jerry Klein, CPedJim LawsonCharles LiebergeDonna Robertson, CPedRob Sobel, CPed

Join this thought provoking discussion as leaders from the pedorthic community discuss the clinical and professional future of pedorthics.

Lean Management Systems for Technicians (T6)Scott Wimberley, CPTO, CPAGreg Mattson, CPTO, CPA

Find a starting point for applying a lean management system to orthotics and prosthetics.

Business Management (B7)

Enhance the value of your business and protect every aspect of it while using tools available to provide your patients the very best in rehabilitation care. (The following sessions run consecutively within this program.)

Safely Implementing Video and Photography into Your Practice (B7A)Cara Negri, CP

As mobile devices become a part of daily practice, mobile device security is an obligation to protect your patients health information. It is our duty to evaluate the risk associated with using mobile devices to capture video and pictures, but it should not be shied away from simply because we are unsure of the facts. These tools can capture valuable health care information if used properly. Video and images can document the fitting process, reduce a certain amount of trial and error, facilitate treatment planning, provide video-feedback for training, and act as a communicative tool between the orthotist/prosthetist, the rehabilitation team, the client, and the insurer.

How to Become Invincible to Lawsuits and Save Thousands in Taxes (B7B)G. Kent Mangelson, CFP

During this presentation, you will learn lawsuit protection, tax reduction, and estate planning strategies most advisors are unaware of.

Business Valuation & The Exit Planning Process (B7C)Allen Oppenheimer, CPA

Learn how to value your practice and how to increase its value in the future. Determine how to enhance the marketing and financial aspects of your practice. Find out how to favorably transfer your business to family and employees.


Education Program

6:30 - 9:30 PM Fun Friday Night at Topgolf

Topgolf is the premier entertainment and event venue for golfers and non-golfers alike with fun point-scoring games for all skill levels, upscale bar food and drinks, great music, and more! See page 19 for details.



7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 - 9:00 AM General Session: The Pros and Cons of 3-D Printing (C16)

Jon Schull, PhD Jeff Erenstone, CPO

Orthotists, prosthetists, pedorthists, technicians and business managers all need to be aware of the latest technology that may affect how patients are cared for today and tomorrow. This session will provide an overview of all aspects of 3-D printing. Attendees will have an opportunity during the afternoon workshop programming to try their hand at 3-D printing.

9:00 - 10:00 AM Concurrent Education


Prosthetic Free Papers: Advancing Prosthetic Care (C17)

Treatment options, improved outcomes, patient comfort and more will be discussed during this free paper session. (The following presentations run consecutively within this program.)

Running Velocity in Individuals with Unilateral Transtibial Amputation Using Running-Specific Prosthesis (C17E)Brian Baum, PhD

Altered joint kinetics (forces, moments, and powers) during running may be required to accommodate for physical deficiencies caused by lower extremity amputation and could place runners at increased risk of injury. Investigating the joint moments of runners using running-specific prostheses across a range of running velocities can provide insight into these adaptations and potential injury risks. We will investigate lower extremity stance phase sagittal joint moments in individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations using running-specific prostheses at different velocities.

Thermal Comfort in the The Effectiveness of the Ertl

Osteomyoplastic Bone Bridge Transtibial Amputation Procedure: A Systematic Review (C17A)Janos Ertl, MDJason Kahle, MSMS, CPO, FAAOP

The Ertl bone bridge procedure may have physiological and functional merit. Formal level one and two clinical trials will need to be considered in the future to guide clinical practice. Review all high quality studies that have been conducted, summarize the conclusions, and discuss the need for future research.

The SmartTemp Liner Significantly Reduces Skin Temperature and Perspiration of the Residual Limb (C17B)Matthew Wernke, PhD

Heat and perspiration are common issues among amputee prosthetic users. Recently the SmartTemp liner became commercially available to address these issues. Review the results collected during a double blind randomized clinical trial (N=16 transtibial amputees) evaluating the performance of the SmartTemp liner to a placebo.

Assessing the Effect of a Vacuum

Assisted Suspension System on the Subcutaneous Tissue Perfusion in Trans-tibial Residual Limbs by Radioactive Tracer Injection and the Isotope Clearance Rate (C17C)Kristleifur Kristjansson, MDKnut Lechler, CPO

The blood flow in five trans-tibial residual limbs was assessed by isotope washout under different exercise conditions, with and without an active vacuum. The results indicated this to be a valid method for perfusion assessment under active prosthesis and suspension system use. Assisted vacuum may improve blood flow in dysvascular subjects.

Elevated Vacuum Socket Suspension Improves Balance and Gait (C17D)Andreas Kannenberg, MD, PhD

This study was able to demonstrate that dysvascular transtibial amputees can benefit from using elevated vacuum suspension to improve their risk of falling, balance, and walking capacity. Subjects with MFCL-3 mobility improved their safety, balance, and walking performance in almost all outcome measures assessed. The smaller subgroup with MFCL-2 mobility showed similar trends, but differences attained statistical significance in only two outcome measures.

Joint Moment Adaptations to

Prosthetic Socket (C17F)Michael Lang

Micro-climate conditions (temperature, humidity, and sweat retention) in the prosthetic socket are of large importance for patient satisfaction, comfort and safety. The climate socket is a novel approach to improve comfort by using temperature controlling materials and technology in the prosthetic socket.

O&P Care: A Free Paper Session (C18)Rehabilitation training, patient expectations, education methodologies and incorporating the OT into the rehab team will be discussed during this session.


Prosthetic Training Across Borders (C18A)Diana Veneri, EdD, PT

Hear an overview of the development and pilot study of educational prosthetic rehabilitation materials developed for persons with trans-femoral amputation in developing nations.

Patient Centered Care: Patient Expectations and Impact on O&P Practice (C18B)George Gondo, MASarah Hoover, MA

Patient centered care is a much discussed topic in healthcare. Little is known if O&P patients desire this approach to healthcare delivery and if delivering this type of care affects their behavior in the O&P healthcare arena. This discussion seeks to provide insight on these questions.

O&P Clinical Education: Trends in Related Healthcare Professions (C18C)Ashley Mullen, MSAT, CPO

A review of the literature pertaining to clinical education methodology in other related healthcare fields will provide a basis for current clinical education models and a platform for maintaining or creating changes that will enhance orthotic and prosthetic education.

Integration of a V-C/V-0 Prosthesis Simulator in Education of Occupational Therapy Practitioners as Effective Clinical Team Members (C18D)Debra Latour, MEd, OTR/L

This discussion includes how students of occupational therapy can develop an understanding of the diverse prosthetic technology, attributes and mechanisms involved in skills development, and the actual functional skills including social integration.

Limb Loss Model System of Care: Proven Means to Improve Care of the Population We Serve! (C18E)George Gondo, MAJason Highsmith, PT, DPT, PhD, CP, FAAOP

Discuss why the time is now to create a much needed Model System of Care for people with limb loss. This presentation will describe the Model Systems Care approach, review its value to clinicians and stake holders, describe the process of creating a Limb Loss Model System of Care, and how the prosthetic profession will be a major system partner.


Education ProgramProsthetic Orthotic Pedorthic Technical Business


Pedorthic Foot Care (P7)

(The following presentations run consecutively within this program.) Pedorthic Foot CarePart II: Marketing Your Pedorthic

Practice: Golden Retrievers and Overhead Projectors (P8)Russell Hornfisher, MBA

Part II of this interesting program will help you:

Understand the marketing options available to growing your business

Find out why it is not what you say

Become aware of the new science of marketing

Ever-changing Technology and Regulations, How it Affects Technicians (T8)Mark Mazloff, ME, MSRichard Hughes, COA

As a technician, how do you stay on the cutting edge of your profession? This program focuses on providing you with an update on technology and regulations that affect you.

Business Education: Documentation Requirements and Common Errors (B9)


How the Pedorthist Fits into the Modern Foot Care Team (P7A)Dennis Janisse, CPed

A collaborative team approach to clinical care is an important part of patient care and rehabilitation.

Part I: Marketing Your Pedorthic Practice: Golden Retrievers And Overhead Projectors (P7B)Russell J. Hornfisher, MBA

This presentation provides attendees with an overview of the many facets of marketing. Attendees will learn which of the marketing options best suits the needs of their company. Learn who in your company is involved in marketing.

Learn why marketing is the back bone of any business

Reevaluating the Wet Lamination Process (T7)Richard Hughes, COA

Process technology continues to drive performance sport fields to continually reevaluate their efficiency. This talk will look at both the reason for failures and strategies for success with new and emerging processes that can be easily adapted to the current laboratory methods. This presentation examines materials that have had success in other industries as well as fabrication techniques. This is a hands on experience for both the new and the seasoned technician.

Coding and Reimbursement (B8)Joseph McTernan, Director of Coding and Reimbursement Services, Education and Programming, AOPA

Attendees at this session will discuss basic principles that govern Medicare coding and reimbursement. Topics for discussion will include the difference between Local Coverage Determinations and Policy Articles, common coding errors and omissions, and strategies to maximize Medicare reimbursement without sacrificing Medicare compliance.


11:00 AM - Noon Concurrent Education


Prosthetic Symposium: Socket Fit Measurement to Improve Patient Outcomes and Promote Residual Limb Health (C19)Jeffrey Denune, CPTodd Farrell, PhDCameron Rink, PhDMatthew Wernke, PhD

The purpose of this symposium is to provide clinicians with an understanding of the physiological pathways leading to skin breakdown and ulceration. The research will examine the latest developments in quantifying how well a socket fits the residual limb, so that clinicians can make the best decisions about socket designs.

Orthotic Symposium: Active Orthotics In Neuro Orthopaedics (C20)Urs Schneider, PhD, MDAdditional Speakers TBA

Recent developments and contemporary systems will be shared during this session. Renowned speakers from Germany will focus on functional orthotics for upper extremity, innovative orthotic mobility systems for upper and lower extremity and latest findings in research. (90-minute program concludes at 12:30 PM.)

2013-2014 CERT Errors and Medicare Documentation Requirements (B9A)Stacie McMichel, CERT Coordinator/Provider Outreach & Education Consultant

This session will discuss the most frequent documentation errors identified in an audit. Attendees will learn the difference between technical and complex medical review documentation errors, references to the applicable Medicare guidelines associated with the errors and receive tips on best practices to avoid and decrease repetitive errors on future claims.

Identification of Four Common Clinical Documentation Errors by Practitioners Leading to Billing Claim Denials (B9B)Molly McCoy, L/CPO

The lecture will review documentation techniques on how to gather and format correct information during patient interaction. Documentation from 48 real cases involved in audits by Medicare, will be reviewed.

Noon 1:00 PM Lunch on Your Own

1:00 5:00 PM Manufacturers Workshops (MWE)

The following workshops in Tier E run concurrently within this track.

SATURDAY (Contd.) October 10, 2015

Education Program

A Breakthrough in Socket Design: The Infinite Socket from LIM Innovations (MWE-1)Sponsor: LIM Innovations

2015 Update: Best Business Practices/ABC Accreditation StandardsImproving Your Business While Increasing Your Compliancy (MWE-2)Sponsor: American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics (ABC)

Pedorthics To Fab or Not to Fab (MWE-3) Sponsor: Janisse Orthotic Effects, LLC (JFX) a division of National Pedorthic Services Inc. (NPS)

3-D Printing Workshop (MWE-4) Sponsor: e-Nable

Approved Clinical Mentor Course (ACM) (MWE-5) (Full Day Program)Sponsor: National Commission on O&P Education (NCOPE)



Special EventsHappy Hour ReceptionThursday, October 85:15 6:30 PM

What better way of wrapping

up a full day of learning than

spending an hour in the exhibit

hall, enjoying refreshments and

networking with your colleagues

and exhibitors. The Happy Hour

is hosted by exhibitors. A list

of sponsors will be included in

the final program and on the

website to make it easier for you

to partake in the fun. The Happy

Hour reception is included in

your full conference registration.

Alumni Connection

When completing your

Assembly registration, be sure

to include your graduating

school and year so you can

be invited to connect with

other alumni from your school.

(Even if it is the school of hard

knocks, connect with your

classmates.)

Connect with your

classmates through

our Mobile App your

school will be set up as a

networking group.

Proudly wear your school

button which will be

provided at registration

and the NCOPE booth.

Join your friends at the

Welcome Reception

where you will find a

table and message board

for your school.

Meet your friends

at informal social

gatherings on

Saturday night.

Wine Tasting & AuctionThursday, October 8 6:30 8:00 PM

Everyone knows that the Wine Tasting and Auction is an important component to support the O&P PAC and the legislative activities of the profession. What everyone does not know is:

WINE TASTING8th Annual AOPA

AUCTION&

The Wine Tasting and Auction is a fun event for everyone!

Even though the registration is $150, you receive a $100 credit

towards your first winning bid.

There is much, much more to bid on than just wineprevious

events included jewelry, Tiffany Crystal, cigars, a vacation,

bourbon and more.

You will have a chance to sample wines from various wineries as

well as partake in an open bar.

Enjoy the camaraderie as members from all aspects of the

profession unite for an important cause.

Welcome to San Antonio Wednesday, October 7 5:15 - 7:15 PM

DONT MISS THE FUN OPENING RECEPTION as exhibitors greet youTexas Style. During the reception

exhibitors will compete to show their Texas Pride with

costume, props and entertainment. Be sure to use the voting

ballot you receive with your meeting badge to give three

lucky exhibitors bragging rights. Texas style refreshments

will be served and you will have the first opportunity to

Ride the Bull, or to get your photo taken at the Alamo.

The Welcome Reception is included in your full conference

registration. You can purchase a guest ticket for $45.

Texas Style


Special Events O&P PAC ChallengeTaking a page

from the fun and

memorable ALS ice

bucket challenge, the

Assembly committee

has created an

unforgettable and entertaining

way to help raise money for the

all-important O&P PAC. Be on the

lookout as your peers challenge you

to either ride the mechanical bull or

make a donation to the O&P PAC.

Official rules will be

posted online. All riders

will be required to sign

a waiver.

Student Poster AwardCalling all Students and ResidentsGain National Recognition and Advance Your Career

Enter to win one of two

prestigious awardsThe Student-

Resident Poster award honors

two meritorious scientific papers

submitted for presentation as

a poster at the AOPA National

Assembly. The purpose of

these awards is to encourage

students and residents to display

outstanding posters at the AOPA

National Assembly.

The Otto and Lucille Becker

Award will be presented for the

best orthotic abstract submitted

and the Edwin and Kathryn

Arbogast Award for the best

prosthetic abstract submitted by

a qualifying student or resident.

The associated school will also

be honored as well.

For complete rules and to

submit your abstract, please

visit bit.ly/studentposter.

Questions? Contact Tina Moran

at [email protected] or

(571) 431-0808.

Golf ClassicFriday, October 9 6:30 9:30 PM

Join us at TopgolfThe Ultimate in Golf, Games, Food and Fun For All

Topgolf is the premier golf

entertainment complex where the

competition of sport meets your

favorite local hangout. This event promises to be great fun for

golfers and non-golfers alike.

Come join us in supporting two great causes, AOPAs Capitol

Connection and OPAF. Strengthen OPAFs efforts and the

legislative, research and education efforts of the Capitol

Connection to further O&P policy by challenging yourself,

colleagues, customers, and family to a new kind of golf experience

that combines competition with entertainment. Players hit

micro-chipped golf balls at targets on an outfield. Just picture a

larger-than-life-sized outdoor dartboard but for golf. And for a

little friendly rivalry, the high-tech balls instantly score each shots

accuracy and distance. Tickets are $125 each and include:

with a twist Lifetime membership to any

Topgolf

Club rental

Transportation via

luxury motor coach

Awards program with new

premier prizes for winners

Great food

Open bar and non-alcoholic

beverages

Topgolf is the premier

entertainment and

event venue with fun

point-scoring golf

games for all skill

levels, upscale bar

food and drinks, great

music and more!

Special Events

Photos: Dror Baldinger

Fastest Technician

IN THE WEST

Are you the most talented, skilled and time-proficient technician in O&P?

Start Practicing!

This years

technical

fabrication contest has a new twist,

instead of entering your fabricated

device into a contest, this years

contest will be a timed event on the

exhibit hall floor. Participants will

properly assemble an articulating

AFO joint. Sign up. Strut your stuff

and show the profession that you

are the best technical fabricator in

the O&P profession.

Contest Sponsors:

Winners receive: Bragging Rights and Cash Prizes!


Exhibits

Ability Dynamics LLCAbletech Orthopedics CorporationAdvanced O&P Solutions LLCAetrex Worldwide Inc.+ Allard USA Inc.+ ALPSAlternative Prosthetic Services Inc.American Academy of Orthotists

& Prosthetists (AAOP)American Board for Certification

in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC)

American Central FabricationAmerican Orthotic & Prosthetic

Association (AOPA)American Plastics, A Div. of Curbell

PlasticsAmerican Prosthetic Components

LLC+ AMFIT INC.Amplitude Media GroupAnatomical Concepts Inc.Apis Footwear Co.Amputee CoalitionAON Arizona AFO Inc.ARTech Laboratory Inc.Aspen Medical ProductsBecker Orthopedic Appliance Co.biodesigns+ BiOMBioSculptor Corp.Board of Certification/

Accreditation, Intl (BOC)Bort-Swiss Orthopedic SupplyBoston Brace International Inc./

dba NOPCOBregBrightree LLCBulldog Tools Inc.Cailor Fleming Insurance+ Cascade DAFO Inc.+ Cascade Orthopedic Supply Inc.Centri A Fillauer Co.CJ Socket TechnologiesCollege Park Industries Inc.Comfort Products Inc.Coyote Design & Mfg Inc.DAW Industries Inc.+ Delcam

Dicarre LLCDr. ComfortDrew Shoe Corp.+ Endolite Epica International ESPFabtech Systems LLC+ Fillauer CompaniesFillauer LLC A Fillauer Co. FootmaxxFreedom Innovations LLCFriddles Orthopedic Appliances Inc.Grace Prosthetic Fabrication Inc.Hosmer Dorrance Corp. A

Fillauer Co.JancoJMS Plastics Supply

Ken Dall Enterprise Co., LtdKinetic Research Inc.KISS Technologies LLCKLM Labs Inc.Knit-Rite Inc.

LegWorksLiberating Technologies Inc.LIM InnovationsMartin Bionics InnovationsMD Orthopaedics Inc.Med Spec (ASO EVO)Medex International Inc.Medi USAMidwest Orthotics ServicesMIH InternationalMotion Control A Fillauer Co.

MyomoNabtesco Proteor - USANaked ProstheticsNational Association for the

Advancement of O&P (NAAOP)National Commission on O&P

Education (NCOPE)New Options SportsNew Step Orthotic Lab Inc.nora systems Inc.North Sea Plastics LTDO&P 1 Central FabricationO&P EDGE/Western Media LLCO&P NewsOP Solutions Inc./ OP MarketingOPIE SoftwareOPTEC USA INC

Orfit Industries AmericaOrthomerica Products Inc.

Orthoservice AGOrthotic & Prosthetic Activities

Foundation OPAF & the First Clinics

Orthotic & Prosthetic Equipment Corporation

Orthotic & Prosthetic Group of America (OPGA)

ssur Americas Inc.OTS Corp. A Fillauer Co.Ottobockp.w. minorPaceline Inc.

Parker Hannifin Corporation+ PELPOSI/Physio O&PProsthetic Orthotic Solutions

InternationalPro-Tech OrthopedicsRenia GmbHRoboticom - Fabrica Machinale Srl Rodin 4DRoyal Knit Inc.

Sensor Medica SASSilipos Inc.Simona America Inc.Soletech Inc.SOLSSpinal Technology Inc.+ SPSST&G USA Corp.SteeperUSAStreifeneder USASureStep

TaiLor MadeTamarack Habilitation

Technologies Inc.ThyssenKrupp AIN PlasticsTillges Technologies LLCTop Shelf OrthopedicsTouch Bionics+ Townsend DesignTRS Inc. (Therapeutic Recreation

Systems Inc.)TrulifeUltraflex SystemsVorumWillowWood

Xiamen Chengl, Medical Equipment Co. Ltd.

AOPA extends special thanks to our title sponsors:

SponsorsLearn about the newest products and the latest technology at the 2015 National Assembly. The A

2015 aopa national assembly preliminary program

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