In this episode, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, chats with Eric Weber, LCPO, FAAOP, and Glen Thompson, MS, CPO. They delve into the essential work of the Academy's Outcomes Research Committee (ORC), discussing how the ORC helps Academy members effectively gather, use, and report outcome measures in clinical practice. They also explore the committee's role in raising awareness, promoting the application of outcome measures, facilitating data dissemination, and fostering collaboration between researchers and clinicians.

 

Show notes

This month's episode features the Academy’s Outcomes Research Committee (ORC) and highlights the committee’s work to generate two important resources. We invite Academy members to access these valuable resources below:

Outcome Measures Toolkits 

How-to-Videos

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

 

In this episode, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, sits down with Dr. Linda Resnik, a physical therapist and researcher at the Providence VA Medical Center and professor at Brown University. They delve into Dr. Resnik's recent study on the prevalence and predictors of unmet needs for upper-limb prostheses. The discussion covers the challenges faced by individuals with limb loss, the factors influencing prosthesis use, and the importance of addressing these unmet needs to improve the quality of life and functionality for those with upper limb amputations. Dr. Resnik also highlights the significance of reevaluating prosthesis options in light of technological advancements. Tune in to gain valuable insights into prosthetic rehabilitation and the ongoing efforts to enhance care for individuals with limb differences.

 

This episode is sponsored by Fillauer.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Prevalence and Predictors of Unmet Need for Upper-Limb Prostheses: An Observational Cohort Study

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Pratima Saravanan, PhD, an assistant professor in the School of Industrial Engineering and Management at Oklahoma State University and the director of the school's cognitive performance lab. The two talk about reviewing literature to identify factors influencing prosthetic prescription and rehabilitation of persons with lower-limb amputations, her interests in human factors in health care  and clinical decision making, her unique way for collecting data for the investigation, and what she would have done differently in the study. 

 

Show notes

JPO article: Mining Literature to Identify Factors Influencing Prosthetic Prescription and Rehabilitation of Persons With Lower-Limb Amputations

Co-Authors: Saravanan, Pratima PhD; Menold, Jessica PhD

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Sheryl Sachs, MSPO, CPO, a certified prosthetist orthotist in Maryland, and Dr. Joshua Utay, a prosthetist orthotist at Scottish Rite in Dallas. The three talk about recurring themes in prosthetic and orthotic education, how the education narrative has changed since the 1970s, topics that have remained consistent, and the study's systematic review process.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Recurring Themes in Prosthetic and Orthotic Education: A Narrative Review of Prosthetic and Orthotic Education Summit Meetings

Co-Authors: Spaulding, Susan E. MS, CPO; Utay, Joshua B. EdD, CPO; Sachs, Sheryl N. MSPO, CPO

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Wendy Hill, an occupational therapist at University of New Brunswick. The two talk about the preliminary findings of her study focused on the treatment for children with upper-limb differences around the globe, feasibility of an interdisciplinary intervention to promote balance confidence in lower-limb prosthesis users, the motivation behind the study, data collection and primary findings, challenges, and recommendations for future research.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Treatment for Children with Upper-Limb Differences in Various Parts of the World: Preliminary Findings

Co-Authors: Hill, Wendy BScOT; Hermansson, Liselotte Maria PhD

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Noah Rosenblatt, PhD, an associate professor within the Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR) at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. The two talk about the feasibility of an interdisciplinary intervention to promote balance confidence in lower-limb prosthesis users, the motivation behind the study, primary findings, clinical takeaways, and recommendations for future research.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Feasibility of an Interdisciplinary Intervention to Promote Balance Confidence in Lower-Limb Prosthesis Users: A Case Study

Co-Authors: Churchill, Rachel MSc; Schneider, Kristin L. PhD; Calamari, John E. PhD; Henderson, Roberta PhD; Hwang, Sungsoon PhD; Major, Matthew J. PhD; Duncan, Chad PhD; Stachowiak, Aaron MD; Reddin, Christopher PhD; Rosenblatt, Noah J. PhD

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Dr. John DesJardins, a Hambright Distinguished Professor of Engineering Leadership in Bioengineering at Clemson University. The two talk about a length-actuated prosthesis prototype design, the goal of functional biomimicry, and the collected qualitative feedback from two prosthesis users in the pilot study. Discussion revolves around the motivation behind the study, primary findings, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Development of a Length-Actuated Lower Limb Prosthesis: Functional Prototype and Pilot Study

Co-Authors: Parr, Therese E. BS; Hippensteal, Alan R. MD; DesJardins, John D. PhD

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Laura Murray, BSc, a teaching fellow at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, United Kingdom, about her research on microprocessor knees and evidence of their influence on psychosocial health. The two discuss the motivation behind the research, primary findings, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: A Retrospective Review of Psychosocial Outcomes After Microprocessor Knee Prescription

Co-Authors: Dunlop, Fraser (FD) BSc; Aranceta-Garza, Alejandra (AAG) PhD; Munjal, Ramesh (RM) MD; McGarry, Anthony (AM) PhD; Murray, Laura (LM) BSc

Referenced articles:

Kroenke K, Spitzer RL, Williams JB. The PHQ-9. J Gen Intern Med 2001;16(9):606–613

Möller S, Rusaw D, Hagberg K, Ramstrand N. Reduced cortical brain activity with the use of microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees during walking. Prosthet Orthot Int 2019;43(3):257–265

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Andreas Kannenberg, Executive Medical Director North America for Ottobock, about his research on multiarticulating prosthetic hands on patient-reported ease of activities of daily living. The two discuss the motivation behind the research, primary findings, surprises found in the results, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Differences in Two Multiarticulating Myoelectric Hands for Facilitating Activities of Daily Living in Individuals with Transradial Amputation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Co-Authors: Kannenberg, Andreas MD (GER), PhD; Lundstrom, Russell MS; Hibler, Karl D. MA; Johnson, Shawn Swanson OTR/L

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Sally Kenworthy, MPO,  assistant professor of orthotics and prosthetics at Baylor College of Medicine, about her research on the perceived role responsibilities among the rehabilitative health care team. The two discuss the motivation behind the research, primary findings, surprises found in the results, and clinical takeaways.

This episode is sponsored by Ottobock.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Perceived Role Responsibilities Among Physical Therapists and Orthotists

Co-Authors: Kenworthy, Sally MPO; Reno, Ariel MS; Reid, Andrew MS

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, for this special episode recorded live at The Academy's Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Nashville. He chats with Brian Hafner, a professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Washington, and board member of the new Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research. The two discuss the new foundation’s mission as it relates to education and research and the alignment it has with the mission of JPO.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Linda Resnik, about her research on contralateral limb pain among veterans with unilateral upper-limb amputation. The two discuss the motivation behind one of the largest studies of its kind, primary findings, and clinical takeaways.

This episode is sponsored by Ottobock.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Contralateral Limb Pain Is Prevalent, Persistent, and Impacts Quality of Life of Veterans with Unilateral Upper-Limb Amputation

Co-Authors: Resnik, Linda PT, PhD, FAPTA; Borgia, Matthew MA; Clark, Melissa A. PhD

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, sits down with Tiffany Graham, MSPO, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), to explore her research on the effectiveness of cranial remolding orthoses for the treatment of deformational brachycephaly. They discuss her interest in the topic, the study's overall focus, methodology and resulting data, participants' demographics, and overall results.

 

Show notes

Show notes

JPO article: A Retrospective Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Cranial Remolding Orthoses for the Treatment of Deformational Brachycephaly

 

First 3 papers in the retrospective data collection series:

Graham T, Gilbert N, Witthoff K, Gregory T, Walsh M. (2019). Significant Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Cranial Remolding Orthoses in Infants with Deformational Plagiocephaly. J Craniofac Surg. 2019; 30(6):1710-1713. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000005512

Graham T, Adams-Huet B, Gilbert N, Witthoff K, Gregory T, Walsh M. Effects of Initial Age and Severity on Cranial Remolding Orthotic Treatment for Infants with Deformational Plagiocephaly. J Clin Med.. 2019; 8(8):1097.

Graham T, Millay K, Wang J, Adams-Huet B, O’Briant E, Oldham M, Smith S. Significant Factors in Cranial Remolding Orthotic Treatment of Asymmetrical Brachycephaly. J Clin Med. 2020; 9(4):1027. doi: 10.3390/jcm9041027

 

Paper which resulted from the retrospective data collection series:

Graham T, Wang J. Development and Validation of a Prediction Model for the Treatment Time of Deformational Head Shapes using a Cranial Remolding Orthosis. Children. 2022; 9(3): 354.

 

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Joan Sanders, PhD, about her pilot study on the mechanical and physiological effects of EV when determining the optimal vacuum pressure for people with transtibial amputations. The two discuss the motivation behind the pilot study, primary findings and surprises, and clinical takeaways.

Show Notes

JPO article: Mechanically and Physiologically Optimizing Prosthetic Elevated Vacuum Systems in People with Transtibial Amputation: A Pilot Study

Co-Authors: Youngblood, Robert T. PhD; Hafner, Brian J. PhD; Czerniecki, Joseph M. MD; Larsen, Brian G. MS; Allyn, Katheryn J. CPO; Sanders, Joan E. PhD

 

Additional Resources

Youngblood RT, Hafner BJ, Czerniecki JM, Brzostowski JT, Allyn KJ, Sanders JE. Modeling the mechanics of elevated vacuum systems in prosthetic sockets. Med Engi Phys. 2020;84:75-83. DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2020.07.019

Youngblood RT, Brzostowski JT, Hafner BJ, Czerniecki JM, Allyn KJ, Foster RL, Sanders JE. Effectiveness of elevated vacuum and suction prosthetic suspension systems in managing daily residual limb fluid volume change in people with transtibial amputation. Prosthet Orthot Int. 2020;44(3):155-163. DOI: 10.1177/0309364620909044

Ballesteros D, Youngblood RT, Vamos AC, Garbini JL, Allyn KJ, Hafner BJ, Larsen BG, Ciol MA, Friedly JL, Sanders JE. Cyclic socket enlargement and reduction during walking to reduce limb fluid volume loss in transtibial prosthesis users. Med Engi Phys. 2022;103:103787. DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2022.103787

 

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Josh Caputo, PhD, president & CEO of Humotech, about a new approach to lower-limb prosthetic devices, wherein prostheses could be designed, specified, and provided based on individualized measurements of the benefits provided by candidate feet. The two discuss the motivation behind pilot tests of this evidence-based and personalized process, primary findings and surprises, and clinical takeaways.

Show Notes

JPO article: Robotic Emulation of Candidate Prosthetic Foot Designs May Enable Efficient, Evidence-based, and Individualized Prescriptions

Study 1 laid the groundwork for two ongoing clinical trials: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03651830 https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05473065

For more information on the validation of the latest approach to emulation: https://asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/biomechanical/article-abstract/doi/10.1115/1.4054834/1141731/Emulating-the-Effective-Ankle-Stiffness-of

For a full list of related publications: https://humotech.com/resources/research-library/

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Dr. Harold Sears about the results of his small-scale survey of bilateral upper-limb loss and the use of body-powered hooks, electric hooks, and electric hands as dominant terminal devices The two discuss the motivation behind the research, the increase of sepsis as a cause of limb loss, primary findings and surprises, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: A Small-Scale Survey of Bilateral Upper-Limb Loss Individuals

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Nicole Hoffman, DPT, about her study investigating whether carbon fiber two-pull solid ankle-foot orthoses (CTP-AFOs) would have similar outcomes as serial casting in the treatment of children with a diagnosis of idiopathic toe walking and ankle equinus contracture. The two discuss the motivation behind the research, the decision to use carbon fiber orthoses, primary findings and surprises, and clinical takeaways.

join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Charles Noble, MSPO, and Goeran Fiedler, PhD, CPO, about the extent to which fall training is provided to people with lower-limb loss and what factors may be obstacles to its wider adoption. The three discuss the motivation behind the research, survey questions, primary findings and surprises, and clinical takeaways. 

Show Notes

JPO article: Preparing for the Worst or Hoping for the Best? The State of Fall Training in Prosthesis Users

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Dr. Deanna Gates about current trends in employment statuses in individuals with upper-limb amputations The two discuss the motivation behind the research, survey questions, primary findings and surprises, and clinical takeaways. 

Show Notes

JPO article: Employment Status in Individuals with Upper-Limb Amputation: A Survey of Current Trends

Co-Authors: Lee, Christina MS; Engdahl, Susannah PhD; Riegger, Anna BS; Davis, Alicia MPA, CPO; Kelly, Brian M. DO; Gates, Deanna H. PhD

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Sara Morgan, PhD, CPO about clinical resources available to clinicians for measuring mobility of people with lower limb amputation. The two discuss the motivation behind the research, primary findings, and clinical takeaways. 

Show Notes

JPO article: Clinical Resources for Assessing Mobility of People with Lower-Limb Amputation: Interviews with Rehabilitation Clinicians

Co-Authors: Morgan, Sara J. PhD, CPO; Balkman, Geoffrey S. CPO; Gaunaurd, Ignacio A. PT, PhD, MSPT; Kristal, Anat PT, MS; Amtmann, Dagmar PhD; Hafner, Brian J. PhD

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Rachel Thompson, MD, about her research on the incidence, rate, and risk factors for progression after successful brace management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The two discuss the motivation and experimental protocol behind the research, primary findings, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways.

 

This episode is sponsored by Spinal Technology. 

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Is the Story Over? Progression After Bracing in AIS

Co-Authors: Thompson, Rachel M. MD; Hubbard, Elizabeth W. MD; Jo, Chan-Hee PhD; Virostek, Don CPO; Karol, Lori A. MD

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Elizabeth Esposito, PhD, about her research focusing on the unique needs of women prosthesis users. The two discuss the motivation and experimental protocol behind the research, primary findings, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Focusing Research Efforts on the Unique Needs of Women Prosthesis Users

 

Co-Authors: Major, Matthew J. PhD; Hansen, Andrew H. PhD; Russell Esposito, Elizabeth PhD

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Stefania Fatone, PhD, BPO, and Kristie Bjornson PT, PhD, about their research comparing sagittal plane stiffness of nonarticulated pediatric ankle-foot orthoses. The three discuss the motivation and experimental protocol behind the research, primary findings, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Comparison of Sagittal Plane Stiffness of Nonarticulated Pediatric Ankle-Foot Orthoses Designed to be Rigid

Co-Authors: Fatone, Stefania PhD, BPO(Hons); Owen, Elaine MBE, MSc, SRP, MCSP; Gao, Fan PhD; Shippen, Garth CO/LO; Orendurff, Michael S. PhD; Bjornson, Kristie PT, PhD

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he sits down with Elaine Owen, MBE, MSC, SRP, MCSP, to explore her groundbreaking research on collaborative goal-setting for children using ankle-foot orthoses. Delving into her study's focus on a table of potential goals and its pictorial representation, they discuss her efforts to establish consensus on the content validity of these innovative tools.

Show notes

JPO article: Content Validity of a Collaborative Goal-Setting Pictorial Tool for Children Who Wear Ankle-Foot Orthoses: A Modified Delphi Consensus Study

 

For more information about Owen's course "Pediatric Gait Analysis & Orthotic Management: OSKAR," mentioned in this episode, visit here. Receive $50 off the early bird rate when registering 3 or more spots using the promo code PedsGait24AC.

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Shane Wurdeman, PhD, CP, about his research surrounding mobility, satisfaction, and quality of life among prosthesis users with dysvascular/diabetic amputation at both acute and long-term phases of prosthetic rehabilitation. The two discuss the motivation and experimental protocol behind the research, primary findings, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways. This episode is sponsored by Allard USA.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Mobility Analysis of AmpuTees (MAAT 6):  Mobility, Satisfaction, and Quality of Life among Long

Co-authors: Stevens, Phillip M. MEd, CPO, FAAOP; Campbell, James H. PhD, CO, FAAOP

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Dr. Matty Major, PhD. about his research surrounding upper-limb loss and prosthesis use and its affect on lower-limb gait dynamics. The two discuss the motivation and experimental protocol behind the research, primary findings, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways. This episode is sponsored by Spinal Technology, Inc.

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Do Upper-Limb Loss and Prosthesis Use Affect Lower-Limb Gait Dynamics?

Co-authors: Armstrong, Kiley MS, MPO; Brinkmann, John T. MA, CPO/L, FAAOP(D); Stine, Rebecca MSc; Gard, Steven A. PhD; Major, Matthew J. PhD

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-and-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Brian Kaluf about his research surrounding hydraulic- and microprocessor-controlled ankle-foot prostheses for limited community ambulators with unilateral transtibial amputation. The two discuss the experimental protocol of the research, data collection, primary findings, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways. 

 

Show Notes

JPO article: Hydraulic- and Microprocessor-Controlled Ankle-Foot Prostheses for Limited Community Ambulators with Unilateral Transtibial Amputation: Pilot Study   Dr. Gard and Mr. Kaluf alludes to the body of evidence regarding microprocessor-controlled knees and transfemoral amputees with a K2 functional level classification. Here's the full article: The effect of microprocessor controlled exo-prosthetic knees on limited community ambulators: systematic review and meta-analysis (tandfonline.com)     Mr. Kaluf mentions a previous study he conducted with a similar protocol with transtibial amputees in the K3 and K4 functional levels: Comparative Effectiveness of Microprocessor-Controlled and Carbon-Fiber Energy-Storing-and-Returning Prosthetic Feet in Persons with Unilateral Transtibial Amputation: Patient-Reported Outcome Measures     Mr. Kaluf speaks about a systematic review that was published around the time of the design of the study described in the podcast. That review was performed by AHRQ and one of the aims was "comparison of component effects by subgroups": Lower Limb Prostheses: Measurement Instruments, Comparison of Component Effects by Subgroups, and Long-Term Outcomes | Effective Health Care (EHC) Program (ahrq.gov)

Check out this quick teaser for the inaugural episode of the O&P Research Insights podcast where our host, Dr. Steve Gard, speaks with Brian Kaluf about hydraulic- and microprocessor-controlled ankle-foot prostheses for limited community ambulators with unilateral transtibial amputations. The full episode drops Jan. 26, 2022. 

The American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists presents O&P Research Insights with Dr. Steve Gard, a podcast featuring one-on-one discussions with authors of featured articles from the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics (JOP). Check out the trailer for season one!

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, for this episode recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago. He chats with Dr. Sally Kenworthy, MPO, CPO assistant professor in the orthotics and prosthetics program at Baylor College of Medicine, exploring her research on factors influencing the perceived value of orthotists among physical therapists. The two discuss the study's objectives, motivations, methodology, and clinical implications, and offer insightful perspectives on the intersection of orthotics, prosthetics, and healthcare teamwork.

 

This episode is sponsored by Qwadra.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Frequency of Goal Setting Contact with Physical Therapists Is Associated with Orthotist’s Perceived Skill Level

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Clayton Benson, MPO, CO, LPO. In this episode, they explore Benson's research on orthotic interventions on Charcot feet. Delving into the study's purpose, motivation, design, and methodology, they discuss investigator insights such as unanticipated surprises, notable problems, and clinical takeaways.

 

Show notes

JPO article: A Retrospective Comparison of Orthotic Interventions on Charcot Feet

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Cory Cacciola, MS, CPO. In this episode, they explore Cacciola's study on the effects of a powered prosthetic ankle-foot component on musculoskeletal pain in individuals with transtibial amputation. Delving into the study's purpose, motivation, and methodology, they discuss key aspects such as inclusion-exclusion criteria, the intricacies of data collection and analysis, and potential mechanisms contributing to pain reduction.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Impact of a Powered Prosthetic Ankle-Foot Component on Musculoskeletal Pain in Individuals with Transtibial Amputation: A Real-World Cross-Sectional Study with Concurrent and Recalled Pain and Functional RatingsAnalysis of a Resident Competence Self-Assessment Survey

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In the season 3 premier, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics chats with Dr. Ashley Mullen, PhD, MSAT, CPO, an associate professor in the School of Health Professions at Baylor College of Medicine, and the program director of the orthotics and prosthetics program. The two talk about her analysis of a Resident Competence Self-Assessment Survey.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Analysis of a Resident Competence Self-Assessment Survey

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Max Krueger, CPO. The two talk about his study about mortality rates after non-traumatic major lower-limb amputations in Medicare patients, the purpose and motivation behind the study, the data collection and analysis process, unanticipated surprises, and clinical takeaways of the study.

Show notes

JPO article: Mortality After Nontraumatic Major Lower-Limb Amputations in Medicare Patients at a Large Metropolitan Prosthetic Facility

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief for the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Dr. Ashley Mullen, PhD, MSAT, CPO, an associate professor and program director in the School of Health Professions at Baylor College of Medicine. The two talk about her study evaluating the immediate effects of low-profile FFOs and high-profile University of California Berkeley Laboratory (UCBL) orthoses on Foot Posture Index (FPI), the purpose and motivation behind the study, the data collection process, and guidance for selecting different orthosis designs based on the results.

Show notes

JPO article: Immediate Impacts of Two Foot Orthotic Designs on Foot Posture Index, Gait, and Comfort in Adults With Asymptomatic, Flexible Pes Planus

Co-Authors: Mullen, Ashley PhD, MSAT, CPO; Kenworthy, Sally MPO, CPO; Ewing, Kathryn MS, CPO; Forbus, Michelle MS, CPO; Hoelscher Thompson, Regan MS, CPO

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, talks with Dr. Norbert Kang and Mr. Alex Woolard, both plastic surgeons at the Royal Free Hospital in London. They explore the use of targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) in upper-limb amputees, focusing on its impact on pain management and quality of life. While TMR has shown to provide lasting pain relief, they discuss its limited effect on improving functional outcomes for patients.

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Murray Maitland, PT, PhD, about his research on improving prosthetic foot design to enhance frontal plane motion. His study examined 21 individuals with unilateral below-knee amputations, comparing a new prosthetic foot design with a locked and traditional foot. Featuring an innovative sliding mechanism, the new design significantly improved frontal plane motion, particularly for activities like sideways walking and navigating uneven terrain. Beyond the study’s findings, Dr. Maitland highlights the importance of developing more diverse prosthetic designs and integrating advanced technologies to better serve the unique needs and lifestyles of people with limb loss.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Motion Analysis of a Frontal Plane Adaptable Prosthetic Foot

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Jennifer Richards, MA, CPO, about her research on cranial remolding orthosis (CRO) treatment for plagiocephaly. Affecting one in five infants, the incidence of plagiocephaly has risen significantly, with CROs being a common treatment. They dive into the success rates based on age and severity at treatment onset, noting severity as the more critical factor. The discussion also highlights data collection challenges and the need for further clinical research despite funding obstacles.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Success Rates of Cranial Remolding Orthosis Treatment of Plagiocephaly Based on Initial Presentation

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

 

 

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he chats with Tiffany Graham, MSPO, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), about her study aimed to update cephalic index (CI) norms. Current CI standards are based on outdated data from over 50 years ago, predominantly from individuals of West German heritage, highlighting the need for more inclusive and modern benchmarks. Graham shares insights from her research, which analyzed CI values in a diverse cohort of 59 typically developing children, revealing higher modern CI values and significant differences across ethnic groups. She also discusses the challenges of data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of considering genetic diversity in cranial evaluations.

 

Show notes

JPO article: A New Normal: A Pilot Examination of the Modern Cephalic Index

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics Editor-in-Chief Dr. Steve Gard speaks with Dr. Linda Resnik, recipient of the inaugural JPO Article of the Year Award. A leading physical therapist and research scientist at the Providence VA Medical Center, Dr. Resnik shares insights into her groundbreaking work on rehabilitation outcomes for limb amputations. The conversation explores her career journey, contributions to O&P research, and key projects—including advancements in the LUKE/DEKA arm. They also discuss the vital role of research in prosthetics and orthotics, the power of collaboration, and the ongoing challenges of securing funding in the field.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Prevalence and Predictors of Unmet Need for Upper-Limb Prostheses: An Observational Cohort Study

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, as he talks with Philip Muccio, founder & CEO of AxioBionics, about his study on Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) and its impact on arm use in hemiparetic and hemiplegic patients. They explore the development of the Axiobionics Biosleeve, study findings showing increased arm movement over time, and how these results challenge traditional recovery expectations. The conversation also looks at future research and the potential of advanced technologies to improve patient outcomes.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Longitudinal Retrospective Study of a Wearable NMES System to Determine the Effects on Arm Usage in Hemiparetic and Hemiplegic Patients

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In our season 4 premiere, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics (JPO), speaks with Dr. Brian Hafner, a renowned professor and researcher at the University of Washington, about the peer review process in scientific publishing. Together, they explore the critical role of peer review in maintaining high standards in research, emphasizing the responsibilities and practicalities involved. Dr. Hafner highlights the importance of clinicians actively reading and evaluating scientific literature to ensure the publication of impactful research that benefits the O&P community. The episode delves into JPO’s peer reviewer eligibility criteria, outlines the review process, and offers strategies for providing constructive and effective feedback.

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard welcomes Brittany Pousett, CP, MSc, director of clinical research at Barber Prosthetics Clinic in Vancouver, British Columbia, for a compelling conversation about her recent study examining the relationship between prosthetic socket comfort, pain, and mobility across key treatment milestones for individuals with lower-limb loss. Together, they explore the critical role of outcome measurement in prosthetic care, the value of establishing clinically derived normative data, and how comfort and mobility intersect in meaningful ways. Brittany also shares insights into the challenges of working with retrospective data, the often-overlooked importance of psychosocial support, and promising directions for future research.

Show notes

JPO article: The Relationship between Socket Comfort, Pain, and Mobility Over Treatment Milestones for Individuals with Lower-Limb Loss

 

Additional research article referenced: Detecting Changes in Comfort, Pain, and Mobility over Clinical Milestones  for Individuals with Lower Limb-loss | Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard is joined by Ashlie White, MA, chief strategy and programs officer at the Amputee Coalition, and Dr. Shane Wurdeman, CP, FAAOP(D), chief clinical officer at the Hanger Institute and Hanger Clinic. Together, they explore the critical role of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research Program (OPORP), a federally funded initiative launched in 2014 to support evidence-based research that enhances care for service members, veterans, and individuals living with limb loss and impairments. The conversation dives into how the OPORP has shaped clinical practice, strengthened advocacy efforts, and improved patient outcomes across the O&P profession. The guests also address the program’s unexpected defunding in FY24 and the urgent push to restore its support. This episode underscores the importance of community involvement, awareness, and advocacy to preserve this essential research funding for the future of O&P care.

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard speaks with Megan Grunst, MPO, a prosthetic resident at the Minneapolis VA and incoming orthotic resident at Orthotic Care Services. They discuss her recent research on the psychosocial and behavioral outcomes associated with carbon fiber custom dynamic orthoses and an intensive rehabilitation program. The conversation explores how psychological resilience influences long-term device use and patient improvement. The study underscores the critical role of integrating psychological skills reinforcement into rehabilitation to enhance outcomes and patient adherence.

Show notes

JPO article: Psychosocial Correlates and Behavioral Response to a Carbon Fiber Orthosis and Intensive Rehabilitation Program

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard sits down with Jeremy Sherman, MS, CPO, LPO, the associate program director for the orthotics and prosthetics program, and an assistant professor in the School of Health Professions at Baylor College of Medicine. Together, they explore Sherman's research on ergonomic challenges, overuse injuries, and the widespread prevalence of pain among O&P professionals across the U.S. Drawing from his background in mechanical engineering and patient-centered care, Sherman shares what led him to investigate the physical toll of clinical work. The conversation highlights key findings, including the disproportionate impact on early-career practitioners and the critical need for more adaptable, ergonomic clinical environments to ensure career longevity and provider well-being.

Show notes

JPO article: Insights into Overuse: Ergonomic Trends and Pain Prevalence Among Orthotics and Prosthetics Practitioners in the United States

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard speaks with Jeremy Sherman, MS, CPO, LPO, associate program director and assistant professor in the Orthotics and Prosthetics program at Baylor College of Medicine. They discuss Sherman’s study on developing a hand skills testing methodology for O&P, highlighting the challenges and importance of objectively evaluating student proficiency. The conversation explores the creation and refinement of rubrics, the testing methods used at Baylor, and key findings that showed skill improvement through practice and repetition. Sherman also reflects on the broader implications for O&P educators and how similar methodologies could be adopted by other programs.

Show notes

JPO article: Development of Hand Skills Testing Methodology for O&P Curriculum

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard speaks with Dr. Alexandria Mallinos, clinical research scientist at Akron Children’s Hospital. They explore her study on custom ACL braces for adolescents, which showed significant reductions in tibial displacement and highlighted the critical role of proper orthosis fit. Dr. Mallinos also discusses how finite element modeling can advance understanding of ACL injuries and points to the need for further research comparing custom and off-the-shelf braces.

Show notes

JPO article: The Effectiveness of Custom ACL Bracing in Adolescent Populations

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 52nd Academy Annual Meeting in Nashville, Dr. Steve Gard, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, is joined by Scott Thach, MSPO, CPO, LPO, a pediatric-certified prosthetist-orthotist at Shriners Children's Hawaii, to discuss his 2025 JPO Article of the Year centered on cranial remolding orthosis (CRO) wear time for deformational plagiocephaly. While CROs are commonly prescribed for 23 hours per day, his study set out to measure actual adherence using an objective approach. By placing a temperature sensor on the helmet strap and blinding caregivers to the data collection, the research revealed a notable gap between reported wear (about 22 hours per day) and actual wear (closer to 18 hours per day). The conversation explores how increased wear time correlates with improved cranial measurements such as CVA and CVAI in plagiocephaly cases, while results were less consistent for brachycephaly. Thach also discusses the challenges of conducting the study during COVID, the importance of objective data in clinical decision-making, and future research opportunities, including differences between daytime and nighttime wear and the role of conditions like torticollis.

 

Show notes

JPO article: Cranial Remolding Orthosis Study on the Use of a Temperature Sensor to Measure Wear Time

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Dr. Steve Gard, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, is joined by Kiley Armstrong, MPO, CPO, Research Prosthetist-Orthotist at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, and Juan Cave II, MSPO, CPO, FAAOP, Advanced Research Prosthetist-Orthotist at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, for a conversation on why clinically relevant O&P research matters. Together, they explore the critical role clinicians play in shaping meaningful research that supports evidence-based practice, improves patient outcomes, and informs policy decisions. Kiley and Juan share their professional journeys into O&P and research, discuss impactful projects they’ve been involved in, and offer practical guidance for practitioners interested in contributing to research efforts. The episode highlights the importance of collaboration, networking, and breaking down barriers to better integrate clinical practice with research initiatives.

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.