Send your comments, questions, responses, articles or case studies to Pedorthic Newswire at editor@pedorthicnewswire.com. Your emails will be reviewed by pedorthists and the editors of Pedorthic Newswire, and selected submissions will be posted in an upcoming issue for feedback from other readers. Please note: the deadline for all submissions and responses is 12 noon Eastern Standard Time on Tuesday for that week's issue.

NEW QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS

Comment: I don't know whether to laugh or get angry about this one. I had a new diabetic shoe patient come in with a signed Statement of Medical Necessity from her physician. The physician checked off "history of pre-ulcerative callus" and "foot deformity." The form was signed and dated.

But wait! On the right hand side of the form was written in large handwriting, "Patient has no history of any of these conditions. She has been wearing diabetic therapeutic shoes for the past 3-4 years. This has prevented any of these conditions from occurring".

I called the physician's office in order to clarify this. "That's right," the nurse said. "This patient doesn't have any of those conditions and there's nothing in her chart notes."

I think this emphasizes the fact it's the physicians who need to be audited, not the suppliers!! Talk about being put in a difficult position as the supplier...please doctors and staff...help us out, this is not rocket science!

- Peg Mitchel, C .Ped.

PREVIOUS QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS WITH RESPONSES

Previous Response [See Issue #392 between Joe Eads, PNW Reader and Burt Humphries for full discussion]: I am quite sure that it is the PNW reader that misinterpreted the LCD.  The base layer of the device is the bottom layer of the multiple density inlay or footbed. The base of the footbed itself must be at least 3/16 inch of 35 shore A or higher material for an A5513.  It goes on to say that the base layer is allowed to be thinner in the custom-fabricated device than the A5512 because appropriate arch fill (longitudinal, transverse and lateral) or other additional material will be layed up to maintain shape and achieve total contact and accommodate each patient's individual needs. The arch fill is not just a cookie under the longitudinal arch-it is referring to the posting which supports all the arches under the foot.

You seem to think that because it is under the footbed that it becomes the base layer.  This is not the case.  The base layer they refer to is still the base layer of the footbed itself -- the bottom of the multiple-layered footbed, which may be thinner distal to the metatarsal heads so as to accommodate hammer-toes, cocked-up toes, etc.

If you go back and carefully read the entire LCD you cannot rationally interpret it any other way.  I believe that PNW-Reader was out of line with his/her interpretation of the guidelines. 

- Burt Humphries, C. Ped.

New Response: Sadly, "my" interpretation is not my own, but was "SADMERC's" (now PDAC).  I went through the process of obtaining an A5513 letter for several of my custom orthoses.  This "cork is the base layer" thing is what they made me redo in order to get my letter.  I agree with you that such a bright-line rule makes little sense from a function or physics or pedorthic standpoint.  However, there are many things about the TSD that were originally well intentioned, but do not make sense the way it has been promulgated/implemented.  Fives C. Peds will have seven opinions about what is right or wrong-but PDAC makes the rules.  The folks running PDAC now are different from the folks running SADMERC when I went through the process, and so perhaps they have altered their opinion, but that is unlikely.  If you want to be sure, submit yours for a letter.  If you want to be safe, take the more conservative interpretation. 

- PNW Reader

Question: Does anyone have recommendations for shoes and/or sandals (not flip-flop style) with good arch support for someone who suffers from plantar fasciitis but prefers to buy shoes that aren't made with animal materials such as leather?  In shoes, she does use high quality over-the-counter orthotics to help support the arch of the foot.

-      PNW Reader

Response: I use the Orthoheel sandals, which have a new model which has straps instead of the toe thong. We had great success last season for folks looking for this type shoe. They have a "leather look" but are man made, and nice quality I might add.

-      Mike Pearlman, C. Ped., Sterling Shoes and Allens Medical, Warwick, RI

Question: I see a large number of cavus feet in my facility. While it's common to see them in pronation control or other inappropriate shoes, I've seen a "trend" in running shoes that has me scratching my head. Biomechanics 101 tells us that people with cavus, supinators, under-pronators, locked-foot (pick your favorite term) tend to strike harder on the lateral heel. They also tend to overload the lateral column. I have observed high-end "neutral cushion" shoes from several manufacturers that have gel or visco polymer pods or wedges in the outsole under the lateral heel.

Many of these shoes also have a thicker and higher durometer outsole on the medial aspect. This would be called a varus wedge if my memory is correct. I suspect the engineers' belief is that hi-tech gels and polymers are better at attenuating impact? I've seen many patients crushing the lateral aspect of these shoes when they are almost new with very little to no mileage on them. This can cause peroneal tendinitis, illiotibial band syndrome, medial compartment overload of the knee as well as lateral ankle instability.

I thought the theory behind neutral cushion was that the shoe is neutral AND cushioned? Some of these shoes are listed as such and they cost well over $120 retail, yet they clearly are nothing more than a giant varus wedge. Fitting them on a patient with cavus or high degree of tibial varum is like putting reading glasses on someone that is near sighted...not the proper correction. Perhaps someone on the design/engineering side of the industry can shed some light on this, because I just don't get it.

Maybe during controlled testing in labs, these material and design combos perform admirably. In the real world, when you factor in center of gravity, tibial angle, ground reaction, body weight, terrain...not to mention foot type...many of these shoes fail miserably. This is what I call "over-shoeing" a patient, and it has become more common in the last few years. This also raises the question of why some runners seem to do well in minimalist or neutered shoes as I like to call them. Personally, I am not a fan of running in what amounts to training flats or less. I have read several accounts where runners say they got rid of their big running shoes and orthotics in favor of stripped down shoes and they actually did better.

It may not be that they were simply running the way God made them. Perhaps what really happened is they were no longer "over-shod" and their under-pronating foot was allowed to function a bit more normally? As always your thoughts and comments are most welcome. Please be gentle with your replies.

-      Brian Graham, C. Ped.

Response: [See reader comments in italics inserted into definition] Pes Cavus Definition from ProLab Orthotics USA: A foot with an excessively high arch.  

Overview: Pes cavus occurs in up to 15% of the population, of which 60% will develop foot pain (Burns 2005). Common complaints associated with pes cavus include pain under the metatarsal heads and the heel, lateral ankle sprains, and footwear issues. Custom orthoses should be designed to address the pathomechanics of problematic cavus foot based on the evidence in the literature. I've fitted many, many customers (over 46 years) that SUFFER from a Pes Cavus condition and I've always found that they indeed did suffer from many ankle sprains during their youth because of their Pes Cavus (supination) problem. There are different "stages" of Pes Cavus, and we had a customer that had to have a "molded" wedge starting at the base/bottom of the heel coming up the lateral side to the top of the shoe counter and extending 4-5" towards the front of the shoe. It wasn't a "CLAW Foot", just the most severe Pes Cavus condition I've ever seen. The customer could NOT WALK barefoot without his shoes on either!!

To "help", with over the counter remedies, I've used Neutral Broad Heel Based Runners, like the 883 New Balance, with a Power Step Pinnacle (NOT the New Maxx) and a Walk Straight to further prevent Supination. The 1012 Runner has been good for us too. Some shoes work better than others...it's kind of a "fit-n-try" and watch and see fitting application. We are a ProCare New Balance Dealer so we carry ALL the higher end New Balance Shoes and their SL-2 Last works well with Pes Cavus conditions.

The Drew Rockford Men's Work Boot has worked on many Men that suffer from Pes Cavus with the same application above. In today's economy many people do not have HEALTH COVERAGE that will pay for custom a Orthotic/Orthosis in the $300 to $400 price range.

Severe Claw Foot customers also experienced EXTREME Metatarsal Head pressure, and I've used the New Balance Pressure Insole and various gel pads we stock with good success.

We don't proclaim to be Doctors or even C. Peds, but we DO SOLVE 95% of ALL Foot problem's that walk in our front door. EVERY Medical Doctor, in a 50-mile radius, send us their patients with COMPLETE CONFIDENCE with our FOOT FITTING EXPERTISE, Knowledge and  the NEEDS of the Human foot. We've been in the same location for 40 years, too!

Clinical Goal for Orthotic Treatment

The orthosis for the treatment of pes cavus foot must accomplish several specific goals:

Increase plantar surface contact area. The overload on the metatarsal heads is a result of limited plantar surface contact due to the high arch and limited ankle joint dorsiflexion. Increasing plantar surface contact with an orthosis ensures that more of the foot is bearing weight in the arch and the metatarsal heads are bearing less weight for less time.

Resist excessive supination. Lateral ankle instability and a laterally deviated subtalar joint axis (STJ) are frequently associated with high arched feet. This lateral position of the STJ axis results in excessive supinatory torque around the subtalar joint axis. The prescribed orthosis should be designed to resist this excessive supination.

Resist both excessive pronation and supination forces. Rearfoot instability is an extension of the laterally deviated subtalar axis. However, in flexible pes cavus feet, midtarsal flexibility complicates the later portion of the stance phase of gait. The forefoot pathology produces midtarsal joint supination that leads to excessive pronation of the rearfoot. Some pes cavus feet suffer from both lateral ankle instability at midstance and rearfoot pronation at late midstance. It is essential that the prescribed orthoses is designed to provide resistance to both excessive pronation and supination forces.

- Ron Brandich, owner, Arthur's Shoe Tree, est. 1971

PREVIOUS QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS WITHOUT RESPONSES

Question: Is anyone currently using any of the following Network Service Vendors (NSV) to communicate electronically with Medicare, and if so, would you share your recommendations either with the group or with me directly by e-mailing brett.richey@richeyco.com?  Thanks.

ECC Technologies

IVANS

McKesson CareBridge

MedXpress

Nebo Systems, Inc.

VisionShare

- Brett Richey

Question: How many practitioners out there are using digital cameras to capture photographic evidence to support custom orthotics or shoes? How do you organize/store these? Do you only use digital photos for the "at risk" cases, or all cases?

- Rick E. Sevier - BS Ed. BOC Orthotist C. Ped. L. Ped CPOA

Question: How have Medicare's new documentation requirements for dispensing diabetic shoes affected your business? Have you seen a decrease in prescription referrals to your office? Have the doctors been cooperating with your requests? What has been the biggest challenge for you as a supplier?

- Curious and frustrated fellow C. Ped.

Retail's Black Friday Stokes Holiday Hope

Black Friday traffic and sales indications appeared to be topping expectations, providing an encouraging note that consumers may be more willing to loosen their purse strings as retailers kick off their biggest selling season of the year.  At Macy's Inc.'s (M) flagship in New York's Herald Square, 7,000 shoppers, compared with 5,000 last year, waited patiently outside before the department store opened at 4 a.m., an hour earlier than last year, Chief Executive Terry Lundgren said in an interview.

In another encouraging sign, while women used to dominate early-morning Black Friday shopping, many younger people and male shoppers joined the fray, he said. Shoppers also were splurging on items for themselves, buying beyond what's being promoted on items including watches, fragrance and women's boots, he said.

"We are seeing both self-purchases and gift purchases," Lundgren said. Black Friday "is a good indicator if business is good, [and] so far it looks good. If [the flagship] store is an indication of the rest, it looks very good." Full Text

Source: Wall Street Journal

Shoe Retailers Expect Happy Holidays after Strong Q3

By Nivedita Bhattacharjee

Mid-tier footwear retailers are lacing up for a strong holiday quarter as demand for boots and other shoes grows during the winter season, and two of them raised their full-year profit views. Brown Shoe Co shares were up 17 percent at $14.24 Tuesday morning on the New York Stock Exchange. Shares of DSW Inc rose 5 percent to their highest in 3 years, while those of Genesco Inc jumped 8 percent to a 3-year high.

Accessories like shoes are usually a popular buy during the holiday shopping season, which begins the day after Thanksgiving -- referred to as "Black Friday." Full Text

Source: Reuters

The PSNE Group Launches Professional Footwear Site, MedicalShoes.com

The PSNE Group, a leading online retailer of specialty footwear, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest web site, MedicalShoes.com. Considered the most comprehensive collection of comfort shoes on the Internet, MedicalShoes.com offers thousands of shoes designed for long-lasting comfort, durability and more.

"I'm really pleased with the kind of selection, as well as the sophisticated site functionality," says Jim Moore, president and founder of The PSNE Group. "As a certified pedorthist, I only sell footwear that I deem good for feet. Medical professionals - doctors as well as nurses - spend long hours on their feet and I wanted to put together a collection of footwear that was not only designed for foot comfort, but were also slip resistant and durable." Full Text

Source: PRWeb

Amazon Introduces Shape Search For Shoes

By Mike Sachoff

Amazon.com has introduced a new visual search feature for shoppers looking to purchase men's and women's shoes. The new visual search feature allows people to browse for shoes based on how they look with the aim of helping them find the styles they want more quickly.  Full Text

Source: Web Pro News

Vascular Disease Foundation Urges Diabetic Patients to be Alert about P.A.D. Signs

P.A.D. occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the legs. This can result in leg muscle pain when walking, disability, amputation, and poor quality of life. Blocked arteries found in people with P.A.D. can be a red flag that other arteries, including those in the heart and brain, may also be blocked - increasing the risk of aheart attack or stroke. Full Text

Source: News-Medical.net

Diabetes Risk From Dining Out

By Jill Stark and Elise Dalley

A gourmet meal may be as bad for you as a Big Mac, according to diabetes researchers who are alarmed at the rise in young men diagnosed with the disease. Corporate lunches and dinners at restaurants dishing up rich, fatty foods, coupled with sedentary working lives are being blamed for the trend.

Dr Neale Cohen, of the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, said many patients were unaware meals at upmarket restaurants were often as high in fat, salt and sugar as fast food. ''Eating out is really code for eating badly,'' Dr Cohen said. ''Whether it's a fine French restaurant or McDonald's, it's the type of food that causes the problem.'' Full Text

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald

Reebok Faces Lawsuit over Toning Shoe from Unsatisfied Customer

Reebok soon had a blockbuster product when it began selling EasyTone shoes in the U.S. last year. But the product's popularity has now made Reebok the target of a lawsuit in Boston federal court. A lawsuit filed Tuesday on behalf of Massachusetts consumer Sandra Altieri claims Reebok made false claims about the efficacy of its toning shoes in delivering more of a workout to leg and butt muscles than a typical shoe.

The lawsuit is asking the court to block Reebok from continuing its current EasyTone marketing campaign, to require the company to conduct a "corrective advertising campaign," and to reimburse consumers who bought EasyTone shoes. Full Text

Source: Patriot Ledger

Pedorthics is a professional field covering the design, manufacture, modification and/or fit of footwear. Pedorthics encompasses shoes, orthoses and foot devices that prevent or alleviate foot problems caused by disease, overuse, injury or congenital defect. Certified Pedorthists work with patients and their footwear to conform to a doctor's footwear prescription as part of the patient's treatment

To earn certification in Pedorthics, you must take a pre-determined number of course hours in pedorthics and pass a certifying examination overseen by either The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics® or Board for Certification/Accreditation, Int'l.  Both the ABC and BOC are independent certification bodies that set standards for the profession and offer certifications that are recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

More information, including FAQ's

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics information on the step-by-step process of becoming a certified pedorthist

Board of Certification/Accreditation International information on becoming a BOC Pedorthist.

For information on the Canadian certifying organization visit The Pedorthic Association of Canada.

ONGOING COURSES AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR BECOMING CERTIFIED IN PEDORTHICS

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Click here to view a detailed calendar including dates and locations, information and pricing.

CFS Allied Health Education: Pedorthic Certification: Exam Review. This review is focused on supplying the student with the skills and knowledge needed to pass the ABC Certified Pedorthic exam by presenting exam-like questions, exploring possible answers, and discussing rationales for correct and incorrect answers. Contact CFS Allied Health Education at (918) 266-3678 or visit http://www.learnpedorthics.com/ for more information.

*ABC and The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics are registered trademarks of the The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc., which is not affiliated with CFS Allied Health Education and does not endorse this review.

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE 1-on-1 or Group Tutoring Available; Eneslow Training & Tutoring Program, Individual and Small Group Program

WHO SHOULD COME:

Those who wish to prepare for the Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes or the

Pedorthic Pre-Certification Course and Exam, also those who wish to improve their pedorthic, sales, retailing, biomechanics and business skills or those who need a refresher course; 

SUBJECTS: PEDORTHICS - SALES -RETAIL MANAGEMENT

Pedorthic Assessment - Pedorthic Shoe Fitting - Pedorthic Solutions Footwear - Foot Orthotics

Foot Products - Ready-made - Custom Shoe Constructions and Designs

Shoe Modifications - Casting and Evaluation Techniques for Custom Shoes & Orthotics - Business and Practice Management Finance & Administration

Forecasting & Budgeting - Buying & Inventory Control Marketing & Advertising Professional Responsibility - Safety - Human Resources Biomechanics Pediatrics

Pathology of Diseases and Malalignments

HANDS-ON 1-ON-1 INSTRUCTION

$150/ hour for individual training

GROUP TRAINING

$125/hour per person for two or more participants in the same program at the same time

$100/hour per person for five or more participants in the same program at the same time

Fee: Two hour minimum

HANDS-ON 1-ON-1 TRAINING WITH ROBERT S. SCHWARTZ, CPED, OR DR. JUSTIN WERNICK, DPM, CPED

$250/hour for individual training &

$200/hour per person for group training

Added Value: An insider's look into the retail, pedorthic, sales, store operations, and business management of Eneslow.

ABC and BOC points may be applied for.

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE, 470 Park Avenue South at 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016. Call for more info (212) 477-2300 (Ask for Sarah Goldberg, CPED) (212) 353-2876 Fax

email: epi@eneslow.com or visit http://eneslow.com/epi

Pro-Learn, LLC announces its new CAPE approved Pedorthic Pre-certification program

Pro-Learn's program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Pedorthic Education (CAPE) to provide Levels 1, 2 and 3 of pedorthic pre-certification coursework required by ABC and BOC to become eligible to apply and sit for board examination. ProLearn utilizes the latest technology in Distance Learning and Virtual Classrooms. This is the same Distance Learning Program technology model used by advanced O & P schools used to deliver their curriculum. This allows maximum flexibility in our programs that gives the student choices that fit their busy lifestyle, level of experience and learning style. Programs vary from three-week, live classes to completing the coursework completely online (Experienced, advanced degree holding healthcare professionals only). Our staff and faculty is composed of degree holding healthcare professionals who are Pedorthists, Nurses, O & P, Professional Pedorthic Educators and Physicians.

Please visit www.pro-learn.com or email cmartin@pro-learn.com for more information to assist you or your staff in making a decision on the right option for you, your business, your family, and your lifestyle.

COURSES   

DECEMBER, 2010

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: December 4-13, 2010 - Elwood, Indiana - Holiday Scholarship Available - Please visit our website or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone:  765-557-7216.

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school. Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

2011 COURSES

JANUARY, 2011

Florida Course - Sponsor: American Diabetic Support Group 3860 Via Del Rey, Suite 101, Bonita Springs, FL  34134 - The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: January 8 - 17, 2011 - Final Course For May Exam (Bonita Springs, Florida)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216.

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

Connecticut Course Under Development For January, February, or March; course sponsor: Stride Orthotics - Quad 24 System - Middlebury, Connecticut (Pre-Cert & CME Course)

Texas Course Under Development For January, February or March; course sponsor: Spenco Medical Corporation - Waco, Texas (Pre-Cert & CME Course)

Pedorthic Pre-Certification Training Course January 24th - February 7th, 2011

In cooperation with the ABC and BOC requirements, the Eneslow Pedorthic Institute (EPI) is offering a three-level competency training course for aspiring CPEDS. To provide maximum benefit in a minimum of time, a portion of the level one curriculum will be administered through a distance learning program that includes required readings, and testing of all mandatory topics. Upon passing the level one test, students will attend the remainder of the pedorthic pre-certification course at the Eneslow Pedorthic Institute. The course includes the required tests for competency to sit for the ABC or BOC exams.

Upon completing the course and successfully passing the competency tests, and fulfilling the 1,000 hour "Clinical practice Requirement" students are eligible to sit for the ABC or BOC exam to earn their Pedorthic Certification (CPED or BOC Pedorthist).

For detailed information on the ABC requirements please refer to the ABC website at www.abcop.org.

For detailed information on the BOC requirements please refer to the BOC website at www.bocusa.org.

Pedorthic Pre-Certification Course January 24th - February 7th, 2011 - $3,995

February, 2011

Foot Solutions Pedorthic Pre-Certification Course: Class date February 14-25, 2011

Foot Solutions is an accredited facility that holds classes three times per year. The company's course will offer the pre-certification in Pedorthics certificate needed in all three levels to sit for the C. Ped. Exam.  The facility is located at 2359 Windy Hill Road, Suite 400, Marietta, GA 30067.

For Application And Fee Information Contact:

Tracy Strickland - 1-866-338-2597 Ext: 206 Tstrickland@Footsolutions.Com

Betty Hubauer - 1-866-338-2597 Ext: 201 Betty@Footsolutions.Com

Dr. William Faddock - 1-866-338-2597 Ext: 209 Bfaddock@Footsolutions.Com

Upon completing our course and successfully passing the competency tests, and fulfilling the 1,000 hour "Clinical practice Requirement" students are eligible to sit for the ABC or BOC exam to earn their Pedorthic Certification (CPED Pedorthist).

MARCH, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: March 5 - 14, 2011 (Orlando, Florida)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

Connecticut Course Under Development For January, February, or March; course sponsor: Stride Orthotics - Quad 24 System - Middlebury, Connecticut (Pre-Cert & CME Course)

Texas Course Under Development For January, February or March; course sponsor: Spenco Medical Corporation - Waco, Texas (Pre-Cert & CME Course)

APRIL, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer Institute will be offering a Pre-certification in Pedorthics course in Brea, California on April 2 - 11, 2011.  Levels 1 and 3 can be performed online while Level 2 will be held at Biomechanical Services at 1050 West Central Avenue, Brea, California, 92821-2200. To enroll in this course please visit the RMPI website at www.rmpi.org or email the RMPI at online@rmpi.org. Be sure to mention the "Biomechanical Services Scholarship" which reduces our published tuition from $4K to $3K due to the generosity of Biomechanical Services who believes in the mission and vision of the RMPI - education for everyone!

MAY, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: May 7 - 16, 2011 (Orlando, Florida)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

JUNE, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: June 4 - 13, 2011 (Orlando, Florida) and June 18 - 27, 2011 (Elwood, Indiana)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

JULY, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: July 9 - 18. 2011 (Elwood, Indiana)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

AUGUST, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: August 20 - 29, 2011 - Final Course For November Exam (Elwood, Indiana)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

SEPTEMBER, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates:September 3 - 12, 2011 (Orlando, Florida) and September 17 - 26, 2011 (Elwood, Indiana)

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

DECEMBER, 2011

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Beijing, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates:December 10 - 19, 2011 (Brea, California) - To Be Confirmed Soon

Condensed course hours available upon successful completion of pre-entrance exam. Scholarships Available - Please visit our website at www.rmpi.org or contact pam@rmpi.org - Phone: 765-557-7216. 

Tuition includes Dormitory Housing and Transportation to and from the Indianapolis International Airport and the RMPI school (Elwood Course Location Only).  Note: limited availability and by confirmed reservation only. Private Apartment Housing is also available by request and comparably priced within walking distance from the RMPI.

BECOME AN ABC THERAPEUTIC SHOE FITTER

For information on Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Courses, please contact the Aetrex Marketing Department at: marketing@aetrex.com.   

ONGOING THERAPEUTIC SHOE FITTER COURSES

CFS Allied Health Education is pleased to announce their new ABC Approved Therapeutic Shoe Educational Course. An ABC certified fitter of Therapeutic shoes is an individual trained and qualified in the provision of non-custom therapeutic shoes and non-custom diabetic multi-density inserts. This two-day course fulfills the educational requirements needed to apply for the ABC Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes credential. To learn more, please visit CFS Allied Health Education's website at http://www.learnpedorthics.com/ for course dates or call (918) 266-3678.

CFS Allied Health Education is pleased to announce its new BOC approved Orthotic Fitter Distance Learning Program. This program incorporates advanced Web-based instruction coupled with a three day live hands-on Learning Activity covering head-to-toe prefab orthotic fitting, fracture bracing, basic shoe fitting and basic mastectomy fitting. Additional modules are available at no extra charge for BOC Orthotist exam review. Tuition is $495. See www.certifiedorthoticfitter.com for schedule or call (918) 266-3678 to enroll. Fellow Pedorthists: Do not miss this opportunity to increase your scope of practice and income in these challenging times!!!

- Rick E. Sevier BS Ed. BOCO C. Ped. - CFS Allied Health Education

INTERNSHIPS

Internship Course with The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute of Biomechanics: Pedorthic Clinical or Manufacturing Internships Available. Daily, Weekly or Extended Internship Courses Available. Experience clinical settings in Orthopaedic, Podiatric, Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Clinics as well as experience in a BAPFOL approved functional foot orthosis laboratory. We specialize in diabetic wound care as well as pediatric and adult biomechanics. Your internship hours can earn you an Associates Degree In Pedorthic Biomechanics or be used as continuing medical education hours. Please contact Pam Haig at 765-557-7216 or pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

Comfort Shoe Specialists, state of the art retail pedorthic facility, offers internships for on the job training requirements in beautiful St. Louis.  Room is available as an option.  Call Edith James, Certified Pedorthist, at 314-822-3300 -- or email Edith@ComfortShoe.com

MONTHLY AND ONGOING

Riecken's Orthotic Labs - 800-331-8040; SAFIO Class, Second Friday of every month, at 5115 Oak Grove Rd., Evansville, IN. Four casting stands provided, limited to 8 students. Contact Darlene at the above number for more information. 

Traveling Courses To Your Area sponsored by The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute of Biomechanics, Inc. a not-for-profit pedorthic school. Please contact us to discuss your needs at phone: 765-557-7216. Email: pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or visit our Web site at: http://www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org/.

The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute of Biomechanics, Inc. a not-for-profit pedorthic school: Advanced Manufacturing - 50 Hour Course - Approved For 49.5 CME's for Pedorthists by the ABC. This course is designed to teach BAPFOL standards in manufacturing functional feet orthoses and provide an introduction to advanced biomechanical posting. Class size is limited to two students. For more information or to customize a course to meet your manufacturing educational needs, please email pam@rmpi.org or phone 765-557-7216. Tuition cost: $2K - includes housing and transportation to and from the airport and school. 

The National Shoe Retailers Association is pleased to bring training and CEs directly to you, without the additional cost of travel, food, lodging, registration fees or lost work time. Our affordable WISER Sales Training DVD makes in-house training easy and there's now an online exam for Continuing Education credits from ABC and BOC.

WISER Sales Training provides quality training for new sales associates and re-motivates experienced sales staff. The DVD format makes it easy for employees to train at times convenient for them, and for employers to offer quality training without hiring outside trainers or taking the most experienced staff off the sales floor. ABC's Category 1 CEUs for WISER Sales Training total 21.75 credits (2.5 scientific, 19.25 business), good through year 2010. BOC's credit total is 20.34 (6.42 CPE Category 1, 13.92 Category 2).

Pricing for the program is as follows:

DVD, workbook and guide for trainers Members: $295 (Non-Members $395)

Additional Handbooks: $10 each

Online Test Members: $100 (Non-Members: $200)

For more information or to order, click http://www.nsra.org/wiser_intro.php?ad=pn

or call or email Veanne Lupia at 1-800-673-8446, ext. 7006, veannel@nsra.org.

Aetrex Worldwide Pedorthic Results Seminars

Attendees will learn the importance of a thorough evaluation using traditional and computerized methods.  The differences of various foot types and their individual requirements in choosing the proper footwear, foot orthoses and external shoe modifications will be discussed.  A hands-on workshop is also included.   ABC - 7.5 Scientific Credits; BOC - 7.75 CPE Category 1

Information on 2011 Aetrex Worldwide Pedorthic Results Seminars will be coming soon.

RMPI Advanced Manufacturing Courses: 49.5 CME's. For info contact: online@rmpi.org

Elwood Courses Includes Dormitory Housing & Transportation From Airport To Dormitories & School

·        December 15 - 19, 2010 (Brea, California)

·        December 17 - 21, 2010 (Elwood, Indiana)

·        January 5 - 9, 2011 -  (Bonita Springs, Florida)

    Under Development For January, February, March - Connecticut and Texas

·        February 4 - 8, 2011 - (Elwood, Indiana)

·        March 2 - 6, 2011 (Orlando, Florida)

·        April 15 - 19, 2011 (Brea, California)

·        May 4 - 8, 2011 (Orlando, Florida)

·        June 1 - 5, 2011 (Orlando, Florida)

·        July 27 - 31, 2011 (Elwood, Indiana)

·        October 5 - 9, 2011 (Elwood, Indiana)

·        November 2 - 6, 2011 (Orlando, Florida)

·        December 7 - 11, 2011 (Brea, California) To Be Confirmed Soon

Seeking to Hire: Wellness Life Systems, a leading national diabetic shoe provider, is seeking highly motivated Certified Pedorthists with excellent communication skills to join our team. We have positions available in many regions across the country. ACHC accredited, inserts created in our own orthotic lab. This unique opportunity allows the right individuals to: Get back to patient care! Perform in-home diabetic foot evaluations, shoe fittings, and deliveries in your local area; Manage your own territory and set your own schedule.  Call Frank, 816-268-6857, with questions, or

send resumes to jobs@wellnesslifesystems.com Ongoing

Seeking to Hire: Since our company's founding in 1923, Yale Surgical Company has been dedicated to meeting the Orthotic, Prosthetic and Pedorthic needs of Connecticut.  We are beginning a new family generation of practitioners and are eager to meet the continuing need in our area. We currently have multiple opportunities for C. Ped., CO, CP, CPO and Orthotic/Prosthetic Techs in our New Haven office. We would love to speak with you to discuss your goals and future plans. Please feel free to look at our website, http://www.yalesurgical.com/ and email your resume to info@yalesurgical.com at your earliest convenience. Comp. salary, 401k etc. - Edward N. Kaufman Ongoing

Seeking to Hire State-Licensed Pedorthists in the following states:

Florida

Oklahoma

Arkansas

Alabama

Illinois

Ohio

Midwest Medical Services is seeking Certified Pedorthists for commission work.  Looking for a career with longevity and growth opportunity? Leads are provided; however you must be a self-starter who can generate your own leads as well. If you are interested in working with our team on the next level of Pedorthic care, please contact us immediately. Call 913-956-4049 or e-mail at kbarth@midwestmedservices.com. 10/20

Seeking Employment: Certified Pedorthist looking for employment in the Central Indiana area.  Possess 25 years experience in Orthopaedic and industrial footwear and customer service.  Trained in Orthopaedic modifications and shoe repair, I own vacuum press and oven for custom lab work.  Clinical experience working in Indiana's largest wound care center.  I'm looking for a position with Pedorthic, Lab, or O & P business servicing patients and clients.  Please contact: pltrwart@sbcglobal.net   9/30

Seeking to Hire: Interested in hiring a C. Ped. with experience in fitting the diabetic patient.  Preferably, the individual should be residing within ½ hr. from our facility, which will be based in Lakewood, NJ. 08701 please contact Judah Rosenberg at: 917-309-1341 or pedicare2@gmail.com  9/22

Classifieds will run for 90 days unless we are informed that the position has been filled.  Thank you!

To place a classified ad, please email editor@pedorthicnewswire.com