C U R R E N T PEDORTHICS...Q: After 30 years as a professional healthcare provider, I am having trouble understanding why pedorthists have had to jump through hoops for years, go years

PEDORTHICSC U R R E N T

Volume 42, Issue 1 www.pedorthics.org

Pedorthic Footwear Association (PFA), 2025 M St., NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036

Working Miracles?

Steer the Social Media Revolution your Way

Casting Confusion?What to Know Before the Dye is Cast

CURRENT PEDORTHICS • Volume 42, Issue 1 1

v o l u M E 4 2 , i S S u E 1


DEPARtMENtS

5 PFA Corporate Sponsors

6 From the Editor

8 From the President

11 Board Member Profile

12 Pulse of the Profession

14 Government Affairs

28 Association News

30 Industry News

39 Vendor News

40 Pedorthic Industry Events

41 Pedorthic Marketplace

42 Product Reference Guide

16

20

24

26

FEAtuRES

Casting Confusion? What to Know Before the Dye is CastBy Seamus Kennedy

Working Miracles? Pedorthics can Offer Hope and Mobility Where Little ExistedBy Dean Mason

PFA Teams with PAC to Bring You the 2010 North American Pedorthic CongressGlobal Excitement Builds for First-of-its-kind Gathering By Kristi Hayes, C.Ped, Vice President, PFA

Give Your Business More Carnegie and Less OgilvyHow Pedorthists Can Help Steer the Social Media Revolution Their WayBy Dennis Collins

Working Miracles?


Pedorthic Footwear Association Board of DirectorsExecutive CommitteePresident: Dane LaFontsee, C. Ped.Vice President: Kristi Hayes, C. Ped.Treasurer: Liz Chiles, C. Ped. Secretary: Jamie Dick, C. Ped., PT

DirectorsRyan Nichols, C. Ped., OSTStuart L. Pressman, C. Ped., COJay Zaffater, C. Ped., BOC PedorthistDean Mason, C. Ped., OST, BOCOArthur Smuckler, C. Ped. Michael D. Veder, C. Ped., CO, BOCOFaith Ballard, C. Ped., COHarlon Compton, C. Ped., COTamara A. Daulton, C. Ped.

Pedorthic Educators Liaison: Robert SchwartzVendor/Manufacturer Liaison: Stephen O’HareLegal Counsel: Allan J. Weiner

Medical AdvisorsAllan B. Grossman, DPM, FACFASCraig Young, MD

Editorial StaffKristi Hayes, C.Ped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Executive EditorDennis Coyle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EditorWilliam Wargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Art DirectorSteve Biernacki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Design/Production

Advertising & ServicesTristan Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MembershipTracey Aaron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Current PedorthicsMarlene Mirman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PFA Symposium

Headquarters Staff

Executive Director Brian K. Lagana

Membership Services CoordinatorTristan Wood

Director of EducationAl Baggett

Education AssociateLauren Kemp

Director of Meetings and Conventions John Rubsamen

Exhibits and Sponsorship CoordinatorMarlene Mirman

Director of MarketingCaroline Fuchs

Marketing CoordinatorKevin Hurley

Government Relations DirectorWilliam H. Applegate

2 CURRENT PEDORTHICS • Volume 42, Issue 1


Current Pedorthics (ISSN 1552-8111) is published bimonthly by the Pedorthic Footwear Association (PFA), 2025 M St., NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036. Telephone: 202-367-1145 or 800-673-8447, Fax: 202-367-2145, Web site: www.pedorthics.org, E-mail: [email protected]. Copyright© 2010, PFA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission. Letters to the Editor and other unsolicited material are assumed intended for publication and are subject to editing.

Articles in CP do not necessarily reflect the opinion of PFA, its Board of Directors or its employees. CP’s use of trademarked names is done in an editorial fashion intended to benefit the trademark owner, with no intention of trademark infringement.

Subscriptions are available for $45 per year in the United States ($65 outside USA). Back copies, if available, may be purchased for $5 U.S.

If you have any questions regarding display advertising or classified ads, please e-mail Tracey Aaron at [email protected].

Please send all product- and industry-related press releases to [email protected].

Marketing/Communications & Editorial Committee

Chair: Kristi Hayes

Faith Ballard

Liz Chiles

Jamie Dick

Tammy Daulton

Stuart Pressman

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CoRPoRAtE SPoNSoRS

PFA offers its thanks to these Corporate Sponsors whose support allows PFA to serve members and the greater pedorthics community.

Platinum Sponsors

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors


FRoM tHE EDitoR

Extroverts make up 60 to 70 percent of society. Rob Sobel, C.Ped. considers himself neither an extravert, nor an introvert, but

there are some things that prompt him to be a little bolder than usual.

One day he was filling out an application for an insurance company to be a provider of Durable Medical Equipment and found he was unable to do so because the online application list of allied health specialties did not include pedorthists. He wondered how that could be possible. He knew pedorthists had been around for 50 years. He knew that he indeed existed. His patients knew he existed. How is it that the insurance industry did not know he existed? Perhaps it was a lack of targeted marketing? He is a pedorthist, presented with foot ailments daily. His work is to implement plans to resolve these problems. So what could he really do?

Rob decided to contact me after we met at the 2008 PFA symposium in Nashville. He ran some ideas by me that I agreed would be beneficial to both PFA and to the individual pedorthist. Some of the ideas had never been brought to the table before.

After some discussion Rob agreed to become a volunteer member of the Marketing and Communications Committee. Did you know that you do not have to be a member of the board of directors to volunteer? As a member of PFA you have a direct line to the staff and the board of directors. You can contribute suggestions and ideas anytime you want to as well as ask questions and discuss things that are important to the pedorthic community.

Rob and PFA agreed on a multi-pronged approach to reach out to the general public, to the insurance industry and to other allied health fields that could benefit from tapping into the expertise available through PFA-member pedorthists. Why is Rob’s approach so special? This type of outreach is something that PFA has been doing for years in segments. But Rob had a twist on the idea that would cost PFA and its membership nothing.

Pedorthists are under-utilized and we lose market share to other practitioners. When a patient needs physical therapy, a physical therapist is brought in. When a patient needs a prosthetic, a prosthetist is brought in. When a patient needs

a shoe modification, foot orthotic or custom shoe, a…PEDORTHIST is brought in! This is not happening in most cases. PFA leaders knew we needed to re-educate all of these allied professions to look to us for their needs. Every industry has a trade journal and like Current Pedorthics; they are usually looking for articles that will be useful and interesting to their readership.

As part of this implementation, we need to recruit more volunteers to write articles specific to the skilled nursing facilities administrators, or the health insurance industry or to the physical therapy industry, etc. More often than not, the publications and or trade journals are willing to publish relevant submissions at no charge. In other cases they may wish to swap space in our publication.

This is not just something PFA can do. You as individual practitioners can submit on your own behalf pieces about what you do, how you do it and the benefit your work brings to the patients and to allied healthcare professionals as well as to the insurance industry! You can submit these in your own areas to local insurance company branches, clinics, hospitals, support groups, etc.

Many articles are already being written and submitted on PFA’s behalf: you saw some of Rob’s initial articles in the Symposium issue of Current Pedorthics. Other volunteers are also writing articles.

The method of planned result here on PFA’s part is that every credentialed pedorthist that is a PFA member be listed on PFA Web site. When these articles reach the intended audiences, readers can check the PFA Web site for their nearest credentialed pedorthist. The result is that you gain an advantage in the marketplace.

While this is just one facet of PFA’s new marketing strategy set to benefit pedorthics as an industry – as well as the individual pedorthist – it helps the profession grow. Without Rob raising his hand and coming forward to help, this spoke in the wheel may have taken longer to put in place.

Rob has some advice for his peers: “Get involved. It does not have to be marketing, think about what your talents are and how you can help PFA

PFA: Our Organization, Our ResponsibilityBy Kristi Hayes, C.Ped.

continued on page 37

Ambulator Web Current Pedorthics Ad:Layout 1 8/18/09 8:15 AM Page 1


FRoM tHE PRESiDENt

Getting Paid: Frustrations with Medicare are CommonBy Dane LaFontsee, C.Ped.

Note: PFA President Dane LaFontsee takes this opportunity to respond to a recent question received from a PFA member. Let us know if you have a question for PFA leaders: [email protected].

Q: After 30 years as a professional healthcare provider, I am having trouble understanding why pedorthists have had to jump through hoops for years, go years without being paid; spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on our practice just to keep the doors open; having an eye on quality care; maintaining training, CEUs and accreditations, and being open to Medicare inspections 24/7, etc. Most recently, I have been forced to submit and resubmit provider enrollment package (four times) since October. Just two weeks ago, I was told to resubmit again. Medicare is tens of thousands of dollars behind paying us; we are receiving absolutely no interest back on these “free loans,” as they are using our held funds. On the other hand, the big stores (Walmart, Walgreen’s, Safeway, etc.) with huge purchasing power, cut a deal, put up a sign and hand out diabetic shoes while receiving advertising and reimbursement from the government without so much as a trained staff member.

A: Thank you for your question concerning other entities fitting and dispensing diabetic shoes and inserts and billing Medicare for them – an important topic that is a lot more complicated than it first seems.

The pharmacies within Walmarts, Walgreen’s, Safeways, Giants, etc., are all required to undergo facility accreditation in order to fit and dispense diabetic shoes and inserts to patients and bill

Medicare for them. Originally, the pharmacies were only supposed to be allowed to fit and dispense and bill for the A5500 and A5512 – off-the-shelf shoes and inserts – by having at least a certified fitter of therapeutic shoes on staff.

Unfortunately, it has recently come to light that Medicare may be ignoring its own bifurcation requirement of the Therapeutic Shoes for Persons with Diabetes benefit (TSD) and allowing pharmacists and others to also fit and dispense custom shoes and inserts (A5501 and A5513). PFA understands that in a verbal instruction to an accrediting organization (AO), CMS told the AO that they were to recognize pharmacists as “qualified providers” for purposes of the TSD.

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) and the Board of Certification/Accreditation, International (BOC) had originally created their certified fitter of therapeutic shoes credentials to satisfy the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) concern that individuals with absolutely no experience would be fitting and dispensing OTS shoes and inserts to diabetics and billing Medicare for them, and to also provide greater access to patients needing the A5500 and A5512 items.

BOC has since dropped its fitter designation, but ABC still maintains its credential. Furthermore, CMS told PFA in 2009 that the reason for rescinding the facility accreditation and surety bond exemption for pedorthists was due to an education differential between pedorthists and other “qualified providers.” However, if this new twist on who CMS considers to be qualified suppliers of the TSD is true, then CMS seems to be satisfied that the education pharmacists may or may not be receiving in fitting and dispensing therapeutic shoes and inserts is enough to be considered a qualified provider. At this time, ABC is the only accrediting organization that is not recognizing pharmacists as qualified providers.

PFA has reached out to its contacts at CMS to obtain clarification as to whether they are, in fact, considering pharmacists to be qualified suppliers for the TSD and, if they are, what additional

PFA has reached out to its contacts at CMS to obtain clarification as to whether they are considering pharmacists to be qualified suppliers for the TSD and what educational requirements do the pharmacists have to meet in order to be qualified.


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BoARD MEMBER PRoFilE

Company: Pedors Shoes

Location: Marietta, Georgia

Number of Employees: 10

Company Practice/Scope: To design and manufacture accommodative orthopedic footwear that utilizes the latest technological developments combined with the most recent Pedorthic research. We have accommodative shoes, prefabricated heat moldable inserts, diabetic socks, compression socks.

Certifications: Bachelor’s of Arts (HONS) in Media/Marketing, University of Leeds, United Kingdom.

Started in the Profession: 1999

Joined PFA: We exhibited at our first PFA Symposium in 1997 in San Antonio, Texas, where we presented some ideas for stretch accommodative footwear. We realized that the most qualified people to guide us as we developed our concepts were the C.Peds. So we decided to align ourselves with the industry and branded the concept Pedors – the Pedorthic Shoe Company. It was one of the smartest business decisions we ever made. We still seek guidance from those pedorthists that we met more than 12 years ago that were integral to making the Pedors brand the success that it is.

How did you become interested in pedorthics?Without knowing it, my name was put forward by an old friend and business mentor David Solomon when he retired as the vendor representative on the board. He and I had discussed on numerous occasions over the years our belief that the PFA brand was under-utilized and that it could and should be leveraged to enhance public awareness of the role pedorthics plays in public health. Randy Stevens who was the PFA president at the time

called me and asked me to step in for David and I agreed to volunteer.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing the profession?

The world has changed so much over the past 10 years that I think now more than ever, every business needs to capitalize on its core assets and market its services to develop as many revenue streams as possible. This is particularly relevant to pedorthics as it seems the industry is constantly evolving with periodic CMS rulings that dictate reimbursements – particularly with regards to the Therapeutic Shoes for Diabetics (TSD). It is important for pedorthists not to become over reliant on the TSD and realize that there exist opportunities to develop those streams across the scope of practice. A good example of this would be how the Foot Solutions franchise presents its services. So, in my opinion, the biggest issue that many pedorthists face as they head into 2010, is staying in business.

Is this issue affecting how you approach your work?

Absolutely, I think it’s fair to say that all orthopedic footwear manufacturers have had to re-evaluate their strategies given the current economic landscape.

How does PFA help navigate this issue?

I’ve been impressed with the way the current board has implemented some new initiatives with regard to the PFA brand and the steps they’ve taken to determine the best path forward to help C.Peds market their businesses. There was a workshop earlier this year that resulted in some real progress being made. There are a few hurdles that still need to be overcome – one of which was how the proposed name change would affect the branding on the logo, etc. – but I understand we are close to formalizing a final plan. PFA has other marketing materials available as well. The association is also monitoring at all times any proposed CMS changes with regards to the TSD and it does a good job getting the word out there.

What are the best benefits of being a PFA member?

As a vendor member, the PFA benefits us as we can reach our target audience in a cost-efficient way.

Getting to Know…Stephen o’Hare, PFA Board vendor and Manufacturer liaison


The world has changed so much over the past 10 years that I think now more than ever, every business needs to capitalize on its core assets and market its services to develop as many revenue streams as possible.


PulSE oF tHE PRoFESSioN

Note: Each “Pulse of the Profession” poses questions to PFA Board members. The topics can range from industry directives and regulations to what PFA is doing to enhance the member experience. If you have a question you want our board to tackle, e-mail [email protected].

Q: How does PFA determine the educational content for its Annual Symposium & Exhibition and what standards are applied to speakers and their presentations to ensure a high quality and cutting-edge lineup year after year? Why aren’t all abstracts accepted for presentation and how are submitters notified of CoPE’s decision regarding their submission?

A: PFA continues to be a primary provider of continuing education for the pedorthic profession. We are always looking for high-quality presentation ideas, especially in the production of our ever-growing Annual Symposium & Exhibition. All of PFA’s successful conferences have been the result of the collaboration of many, but it’s the hard work and efforts of PFA’s Council on Pedorthic Education (COPE) throughout the entire year that drives the content. These programs support PFA and its mission to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the credentialed pedorthist through education.

In 2009, COPE was once again delighted by the number of exceptional presentation proposals submitted for the Symposium. As always, all submissions were reviewed by COPE members. Here is the list of criteria used during the review process (this was also included in the 2009 Call for Presentations):

• overall quality, originality, timeliness, and pertinence to pedorthics;

• relevance to pedorthic footwear and pedorthic foot healthcare;

• well-defined focus that can be presented within a 50-minute timeframe (excluding 5-minute mini-session pearl proposals); that fits within the defined topical tracks of the Symposium (a format that PFA has been using since 2005), and can be assigned a level of comprehension (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced);

• practical application of ideas presented;

• organization and usefulness of session materials;

• abstracts that exemplify and articulate a specific skill, innovation or approach; and

• presenters must refrain from marketing particular products or services.

COPE gives priority to presentations that encourage and support substantial interaction among participants.

The reality is that not every submission can be accepted for presentation. Unfortunately, the heavy turnout of quality proposals in 2009 made the decision-making process that much more difficult for COPE. Committee members wish they could accept more of the submitted abstracts. Many times abstracts may be combined with others related to same topic in order to form panels. This allows more people an opportunity to be a part of the Symposium program – a program that is comprised of dozens of general and concurrent breakout sessions.

As always, PFA welcomes experienced speakers and those who may be younger and/or new to the profession, representing perspectives from the newly certified pedorthist and pedorthic students. Together, everyone’s participation in the numerous networking opportunities helps enrich the complete conference experience for all in attendance, bringing together pedorthic professionals to discuss issues and breakthroughs impacting our pedorthic community.

PFA collected and analyzed the survey responses to the 2009 Symposium individual educational session evaluations and the overall symposium evaluation. Much of the input received thus far has been very positive – especially feedback on educational content of the meeting. Each year certainly brings with it something new to learn and PFA works to incorporate the latest and cutting-edge offerings into each Symposium.

Concerning the notification process of individuals who submitted abstracts that were not accepted: COPE plans to include more specifics and suggestions from the committee in follow-up to each rejection so that submitters can adjust their presentations to make them more viable the following year.

PFA encourages the interest and participation of everyone in the pedorthic community to be a part of the Annual Symposium & Exhibition – the largest event in the world solely dedicated to the pedorthic profession. The 2010 North American Pedorthic Congress, jointly produced by PFA and the Pedorthic Association of Canada, is slated for November 18-21 in Orlando, Florida. Find out more at the Congress Web site: www.pedorthiccongress.org. ■

Kristi Hayes, C.Ped.Vice President, PFA

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CURRENT PEDORTHICS-08.indd 1 10/8/08 1:13:14 PM


GovERNMENt AFFAiRS

The Pedorthic Footwear Association (PFA) announces the availability of its pedorthic HCPCS coding manual, Modern Coding for Foot & Ankle DMEPOS

HCPCS Codes – An Analysis, Explanation and Clarification by the PFA Coding Committee, updated for 2010. Updates to the first-ever pedorthic coding manual include the most current Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) and Policy Articles (PAs) for Medicare’s Therapeutic Shoes for Persons with Diabetes benefit and the AFO-KAFO benefits; 2010 fee schedules; new, revised and deleted Level II HCPCS codes, and more.

Current PFA members may download the five sections to the coding manual on a complimentary basis by logging into the PFA website with your user name and password and clicking on the “Download Your Pedorthic Coding Manual NOW!”

button. This download will be available for a limited time only. If you do not wish to download the coding manual, you may purchase a printed, tabbed and bound copy of the manual for $109 (PFA member price) or $159 (non-member price). Visit www.pedorthics.org to order.

A terrific resource, Modern Coding for Foot & Ankle DMEPOS HCPCS Codes – An Analysis, Explanation and Clarification by the PFA Coding Committee provides thoughtful and consistent guidance for pedorthic and other healthcare practitioners in their billing process, as well as an advocacy tool to use to educate third-party insurance payers, regional DME MACs, and others unfamiliar with pedorthic modalities. PFA encourages all practitioners dispensing these codes to follow this guidance. ■

PFA’s Pedorthic Coding Manual with 2010 Revisions Now Available

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Casting Confusion?

What to Know Before the Dye is CastBy Seamus Kennedy


One of the most frequent questions that I am asked during an in-service on foot orthotics is, “What kind of cast do you prefer?” I have given presentations

to many different groups: pedorthists, orthotists and prosthetists, podiatrists, and physical therapists, and yet this same question always comes up.

Caught among the theory of plaster slipper casts; the practicality of impression foams; and the new choices with digital scanners, most practitioners are more than a little confused. I know there are strong viewpoints on this topic, so I will humbly offer some observations of my own. (Please don’t write to the editor and complain. But feel free to share your thoughts through Current Pedorthics, e-mail [email protected].)

Plaster CastThe plaster slipper cast is the gold standard of casting methods. It was popularized in the 1960s as Root et al. were developing the field of lower-extremity biomechanics. At that time there was an improved understanding of foot function and orthotics. The emphasis shifted from general arch support to sub-talar joint control. There were also significant changes in orthotic fabricating materials: thermoplastics replaced cork, leather and metal. All this new science required better ways to replicate foot shape.

Plaster casting is the optimum method for capturing the foot in sub-talar joint neutral. It is done non-weight bearing with the patient lying either supine or prone, while the thumb and index finger load and control the fourth and fifth met heads holding the midtarsal joint at the end of its range of motion.

A good cast cannot be rushed, and the inside surface should reveal some of the lines of the skin. Specific anatomical points or areas in need of relief can be indicated in pencil. Marking calcaneal bisection is also helpful when intrinsic balancing or posting is required. There is also an STS synthetic slipper “sock” available that mimics plaster without the delay or mess.

The slipper cast is particularly useful when you are designing functional foot orthotics. Their aim is to improve the biomechanical function of the foot. It is beneficial in applications such as sports orthotics, where precision is required in order to obtain maximum benefits. It is also good for flexible foot types, where weight-bearing casts may only capture a fully pronated foot structure.

However, after more than a decade of owning a custom foot orthotics lab, I have witnessed some pretty unusual things come through the door that are supposed to represent the shape of a foot.

Thus, I give you my first rule of plaster casting: make sure that the final cast is a true image of the patient’s foot. Being honest, rather than academic, will be more helpful to all involved. If you lack time, plaster splints or good technique, then it may be best to avoid the plaster slipper cast.


impression FoamImpression foam casting has the obvious advantages of being both quicker and cleaner. It offers a good method of creating a negative of the patient’s foot. Approximately 75 percent of all casts that we receive are taken with impression foam. I usually recommend that practitioners take a semi-weight-bearing cast when using foam. The patient should be seated in a chair with both feet plantargrade. It is important that the cast be taken slowly with the practitioner in control and guiding the descent of the foot. It is best not to take impressions on tiled floors as the box may slide halfway through the process. A good, controlled cast will not crack or split the foam around the perimeter.

Impression foam is the method of choice when you are making accommodative foot moulds. These orthotics are often designed to alleviate pain in a specific area of the foot. A semi-weight-bearing or even a weight-bearing cast may often capture better the location of a bony prominence, callous or fibrous-tissue mass. Many practitioners use impression foam exclusively when dealing with restless patients (e.g., young children or people with certain disabilities).

ShippingOnce the cast is complete it is important to take a little time and care with the shipping. Plaster casts should be left out to cure and dry for 24 hours before being sent off. Otherwise they will tend to flatten, and even dampen and potentially damage the shipping box. Although some impression foam is sold in cartons that are ready-to-ship, we recommend that you send them inside another box for better protection. On occasion, if the carrier service is having a rough day, all that may arrive at the lab is a forensic jigsaw puzzle!

ScannersOne of the more obvious changes in the broader field of orthotics and prosthetics is the adoption of scanners. The recent proliferation of systems indicates a clear shift toward

Plaster Casting Impression Foam ScanningCan be a little messy Clean Clean

Takes approximately 15 minutes

Takes approximately 1 minute

Takes less than 1 minute

Material cost $1.50 - $2.50/pair

Material cost $4 - $6/pair

Costs can be pay-per-click; up-front equipment purchase; or some combination

Best method for capturing STJ neutral

Good method for accommodative devices

Neutral position image for functional and accommodative

Taken non-weight bearing

Taken semi- and full-weight bearing

Non-weight bearing


digital casting. Although available for some time, scanners are now becoming more widespread, possibly due to a combination of lower cost and increased practitioner trust.

There are several advantages to using scanners:

• a reduction in the time, cost and mess associated with traditional casting;

• elimination of shipping costs and a faster turnaround time with electronic data transmission;

• long-term storage of cast data without significant cost; and• improved accuracy and consistency of shape capture across

practitioners, resulting in fewer errors.

The introduction of surface-touch wands and laser scanners allows practitioners to capture the topography of feet and limbs. Once captured in 3-D, the software allows the operator to shave and shape the model to his or her specification.

There are some restrictions to widespread adoption of this technology:

• a high initial cost;• a learning curve to master the software; and• a reluctance, or inertia, to change from traditional methods

of fabrication.

Casting Confusion? continued from page 17

However, according to Moore’s Law (regarding the exponential increase in integrated circuit capacity and computational processing speed) it is inevitable that costs will continue to fall. In addition, software upgrades will make CAD/CAM and digital-scan systems very user friendly.

Scanners are just one aspect of changing technology that will reshape the orthotic industry. Digital files are seamlessly transferred into CAD/CAM software that can modify casts and then direct carve the final device. I believe this technology, and other yet-to-be developed breakthroughs, will make our industry more productive, efficient and effective.

ConclusionUsing a results-oriented philosophy, evaluate the outcomes of your casts and the resulting orthotics. Then, modify your approach accordingly. Regardless of the method employed, the goal is to deliver the best possible custom orthotics for your patients’ foot conditions. Satisfied clients generate referrals and repeat business – and that is always valuable feedback worth working for. ■

Seamus Kennedy is co-owner of Hersco Ortho Labs in New York City. He can be reached at [email protected]. (Portions of this article previously appeared in The O & P Edge and are reprinted here courtesy of Western Media LLC.)

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Pedorthists are called upon to intervene in many situations: managing a condition or restoring functionality to a particular patient. Pedorthists

improve the quality of life for thousands of people each day. And, at times, these patients may look upon their pedorthists as performing nothing short of miracles.

Walking is a task that nearly everyone takes for granted. It is an action that begins in the earliest part of our lives and continues through childhood, adulthood and into old age if we are fortunate enough. Going where you wish normally involves the use of feet and legs in the act of ambulation. That is until something happens that changes everything. Losing your ability to walk is one of the ultimate limits of freedom.

Cardiovascular accidents (CVA), commonly known as strokes, can happen to anyone at any age. Mostly these occur in an aging population due to the effects of atherosclerosis and hypertension left uncontrolled for too long. One does not normally treat stroke patients under age 50, although a CVA can occur at any age. This is the story of a 47-year old male who suffered a CVA more than 20 years ago.

Some Background on CvACVA has many presentations, from mild impairment to paralysis and even to death. There are two types of CVA: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Each affects the brain and its ability to control motor functions in the body. Some

Working Miracles?Pedorthics Can Offer Hope and Mobility Where Little ExistedBy Dean Mason

impairments produce mild effects while others have profound consequences.

Ischemic strokes are caused by blood clots impeding the blood supply to a particular portion of the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes are characterized by bleeding from the affected vessel into the brain, impairing the function of the area of the hemorrhage. There are also rare combination CVAs where a clot from somewhere else in the body plugs the opening caused by the hemorrhagic stroke. These CVAs are very rare.

The long-term effects of the CVA can be profound, or the impairment can be temporary. Modern medicine has a potent medication for ischemic strokes: the clot-busting drug that is given soon after the diagnosis of many kinds of ischemic strokes. The drug is very effective, though not in all cases.

Treating hemorrhagic CVAs typically consists of waiting to see if the vessel will stop bleeding, and when the blood pool clears to see how much function will remain. At times, surgical intervention is possible. A good amount of hemorrhagic strokes occur in smaller vessels or in areas that are inaccessible to the surgeon. Modern imaging (CAT scans and MRIs) gives the physician a good look at the affected area and gives indication as to prognosis and recovery.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) have many of the same effects as CVA, and these conditions are treated in much the same way. Elevations in intracranial pressure are monitored by a probe inserted into the brain. Swelling of the brain is


common with TBI. Intracranial swelling causes impairments in motor function, with the possibility of functional restoration as the swelling diminishes.

CVA can leave the person significantly impaired via neurological and neurophysical deficits. The most common effect of CVA is paralysis in its many forms. Paralysis and paresis are two different conditions, although they are often used interchangeably. Dorland’s Medical Dictionary defines paralysis as a “loss or impairment of motor function in a part due to lesion of the neural or muscular mechanism, also, by analogy, impairment of the sensory function.” Sub-definitions go on for one-and-one-half pages:

• Paresis is defined as slight or incomplete paralysis.• Paralysis is the severing of the neural connection due to

spinal-cord injury. This can cause non-reversible loss of motor function.

• Paresis is drop foot or limited use of an arm.

The inability of neurons to connect the brain to the distant motor nerves can be as simple as a drooping appearance of the face on the opposite side of the brain the CVA affects. Or it can be as dramatic as a complete loss of motor function on one side of the body. Muscles without stimulation eventually atrophy, causing loss of muscle tone and shrinkage of muscle tissue. Articulations can and do contract due to the decreased muscular activity that result in completely or partially frozen joints.

the Case of a 47-year-old CvA PatientSuch is the case before us. The patient had multiple impairments from his CVA. He was left legally blind with hemiparesis on the LT side. There was minimal motion in the elbow. The hand was contracted and had no functional use. The hand contracture was semi-rigid. The digits could be manipulated with great difficulty into flexion. The hand could not maintain the open position without support.

This patient has been in several nursing facilities over the past 20 years. His family lives out of state. His ambulation has not been addressed by any facility prior to his admission to his current residence. The director of nursing asked if anything could be done to help this man return to more normal mobility. The answer was yes, thanks to pedorthics.

Steve (not his real name) has been walking with a very odd gait since he returned to walking. In addition to the upper-extremity deficits, the LT knee is permanently frozen in a contracted position. The contracture measures 30 degrees by goniometer. The contracture is fixed. A flexible plantarflexion contracture occurs at the ankle articulation to allow his forefoot to maintain contact with the ground. Previous footwear was a dress short boot. (See photographs on next page.) As you can see, the boot only makes contact with the ground from the forefoot distally. There were no areas of hyperkeratosis on the met heads as would be expected. This may be due to his minimal level of ambulation.

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The goal was to stabilize the LT foot so that weight could be borne more on the calcaneus and less on the metatarsals. A custom shoe was the only possibility to completely manage the deformity. By necessity, the custom shoe was a high-heeled boot.

Working Miracles? continued from page 21

Trimming the layers of crepe and checking against the level line of the forefoot midsole helps to clear your mind of the confusion.

The patient was cast for the shoe using a fiberglass wrap over cotton stockinette. The shoe maker was advised of the severity of the deformity. The patient chose a chukka style boot as he was accustomed to this style. The shoe was ordered with no soling added. The insert to the shoe was built up with an additional one-half inch internal elevation. This reduced the external elevation by the same measurement. Multiple layers of cloud crepe were affixed to the heel area of the boot to bring it to level with the forefoot.

Doing a buildup of this magnitude leads to an optical illusion: there are multiple angles that need be maintained as the layers are added. As Michelangelo one said: “God put Moses in that piece of marble at the creation of the earth, my job was to get him out.” Trimming the layers of crepe and checking against the level line of the forefoot midsole helps to clear your mind of the confusion. One handy tip with a large elevation is to begin trimming the elevation to within ¼ inch of the finished elevation as you put on each inch or inch and a half. This will also help to prevent the “angling in” that produces a triangular wedge instead of an elevation. The final sole is ½ inch with a rocker forefoot added to assist in ground clearance.

One would think that this would be the end of the story, but it is not. With the knee contracture on the LT side, one must compensate for the eventual functional leg length discrepancy on the RT side. When Steve stands on his LT leg, his RT leg is short. Therefore, an elevation was also added to the RT shoe along with a rocker sole. The RT shoe was delivered with the finish sole off as well.

The easiest way to measure for this type of discrepancy is to place the shoes on the patient, and, using a cane or walker for stability, place layers of material under the RT shoe until level is reached. In this case it is more than 4 inches. Once the proper level of elevation is achieved, return to the lab and affix the proper amount of elevation material and finish the shoe.

Steve was referred to physical therapy for gait training. As he is blind, he needed training with his white cane. Today, he walks essentially without assistance and moves about the nursing facility at will. No one thought to help out this man with the deformity because it was thought that nothing can be done. Pedorthics to the rescue! ■

Dean Mason is a long-time PFA member.

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The Pedorthic Footwear Association (PFA) and the Pedorthic Association of Canada are co-presenting the 2010 North American Pedorthic Congress, “Pedorthics

& the Global Footprint,” in Orlando, Florida.

Attendance is expected to be the highest in PFA’s and PAC’s symposia history with pedorthists, allied healthcare providers and suppliers from all over the world. The Congress dates are Nov. 18-21, 2010, at the Hilton in the Walt Disney World Resort. Mark your calendars!

The Congress idea was born after discussion between Brian Lagana, PFA’s executive director, and Jonathon Strauss, PAC’s executive director. The two gentlemen brought the idea to their respective boards of directors and all agreed that this would be an exciting venture.

PFA and PAC had already been meeting twice-yearly to compare the profession’s growth, tackle issues in the industry and share ideas. In addition to the PAC, PFA also meets regularly with the Australian Pedorthic and Medical Grade Footwear Association (APMGFA). We all work together to make pedorthics known not just nationally, but internationally.

It seemed natural to PFA that a next step was to bring everyone to the table and represent Pedorthics from a global standpoint. The Congress expects delegates from Australia, China, Germany, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Taiwan and many other countries where pedorthics is a new and growing profession.

For many of the attending professionals, the North American Pedorthic Congress will serve as the sole forum to discuss common interests as well as the challenges and needs facing their local Pedorthic community as many countries are without formal member associations.

PFA’s COPE Committee, in conjunction with PFA’s Board of Directors and everyone at PAC, are working diligently to read through all the abstracts that have been submitted and qualify them through the credentialing bodies (like ABC, BOC, the Pedorthic College of Canada, etc.) in order to appropriately offer attendees continuing education points. Additionally, PFA and PAC are searching for the best of the best in regard to

PFa Teams with Pac to Bring You the 2010 north american Pedorthic congressGlobal Excitement Builds for First-of-its-kind GatheringBy Kristi Hayes, C.Ped., Vice President, PFA

presentations that can speak to pedorthists in every stage of their career: beginners, intermediate and advanced.

Providing continuing education to the masses is a difficult task, but providing it to multi-national professionals and to Pedorthists who are at different levels and practicing in all types of settings is monumental. Both PFA and PAC have structured guidelines, education professionals and skilled credentialed pedorthists with various backgrounds and expertise to assist with the task.

The Congress is comprised of dozens of general and breakout sessions, nearly double the usual exhibit booths and numerous, amazing networking opportunities. This

2010 North American Pedorthic CongressThursday, November 18 to Sunday, November 21, 2010H i l ton Walt Disney Wor ld Resor t , Or lando, Flor ida

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one-of-a-kind event will bring together worldwide pedorthic professionals to discuss issues and breakthroughs impacting the global pedorthic community.

The PFA and PAC staff have been laying the groundwork for the Congress for more than a year. Most people do not realize the daunting list of tasks that must be accomplished in order to simply book a hotel and convention center for an event like this or how many years in advance it must be done in order to keep rates as low as possible for the membership. Everyone is already working around the clock and the 2010 Congress is still more than eight months away.

This is the largest preparation for an educational forum in PFA’s and PAC’s histories. This is a true event and a step

forward for pedorthics everywhere. If you have an idea for an abstract for the Congress, submit it now because, thankfully, we are receiving many submissions and for them all to be considered we need them soon. Abstract submission forms can be downloaded from www.pedorthics.org, www.pedorthic.ca or www.pedorthiccongress.org, completed and e-mailed to [email protected].

On behalf of the PFA Board of Directors, volunteers and PFA’s hardworking staff, we look forward to sharing more information with you in the coming months about the Congress and sincerely hope that you will be in attendance for this historical occasion!

Want to know more? Log on to www.pedorthiccongress.org. ■

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When you think about your customers and prospective clients, do you ever think about how you are interacting with them? Whenever I ask this question

to business owners, the answer almost always is that they market to them with Web sites, fliers ads and referrals. Rarely do I get answers that include researching, polling or listening.

However, the best salespeople agree that the primary key to success is in the listening, not in the storytelling. Of course, it helps to have a good story to tell, but if you can listen to someone explain their problems, then you get a chance to provide a valuable response that is relevant and memorable to them. Regardless of the method, location or opportunity, listening to someone’s concerns about his or her situation offers insights into sales opportunities for you.

Why am I bringing up this issue in an article about social media? Because it is the ability to listen and engage a prospect or customer that is one of the primary benefits social media tools provide. When used correctly, you can insert yourself into the dialog happening around you and learn what motivated your customers to choose you, why they remain, or what you’re doing to lose them. All of this is valuable

information to improve your business and services. And it is readily available, if you know where to look and how to get it.

Like any good marketing program, start by considering who you want to reach, and what you want to accomplish. Here are some goals to consider:

• improving customer satisfaction;• retaining more business;• uncovering more prospects; and• getting more referrals.

For this example, let’s look at raising your awareness with prospects. How can using social media make this happen?

Now that we have a goal and we know our audience, we can start to build our tactical approach. While many of your prospects are unlikely to spend significant time on social networking sites, their providers or acquaintances might. And if they have questions about anything related to service or procedure, they will leverage their online friends for information.

So a perfect first step is to create an “outpost” in existing online communities. Setting up an account and monitoring

give Your Business More carnegie and less ogilvyHow Pedorthists Can Help Steer the Social Media Revolution Their WayBy Dennis Collins

Special Feature: Managing your Practice

SoCiAl MEDiA REvolutioN


for keywords like your business name or specific issues is a practical first step. But keep in mind that getting involved is an ongoing commitment, not a one-time event. You’ll need to find someone who is willing and able to monitor these sites for activity and either respond directly or direct the opportunity to someone else.

Then go find existing influencers – bloggers, experts and other folks who are already talking about issues – and offer your insights when appropriate. But don’t jump in with a megaphone and blast your sales pitch: use some patience and restraint or you’ll be unwelcome.

You can start by monitoring the conversation with tools like Radian6 and Google analytics – which will help identify bloggers and keywords and will update you on new posts. Review the post, and if a comment makes sense, then offer it up. Remember to try to end with a question in order to solicit replies back to you. In this way, you start to build a dialog, which is the core strength of social media versus traditional mainstream media or marketing communications activities. Once you start building a rapport on the blogs, you can bring people to your destination (read: Web site) to continue the discussion.

Marketing is mostly about telling, not selling. Selling is mostly about listening, not telling. If you want to grow your business efficiently, you will need to do both. And social media tools can be a strong component that yields great insights and opportunities to reach prospects and customers alike.

David Ogilvy was a master of the advertising message – and he is attributed as coining a philosophy that I firmly believe: “Nothing kills a bad product faster than good advertising.” But in today’s era of social media, you need less Ogilvy-esque marketing and more Dale Carnegie selling by listening to people and offering to solve their problems. That is the way to win friends and influence people, or to convert prospects into customers and customers into advocates. And that is the way to develop long-term relationships that really make a difference in your business. I’m always ready to listen to your comments, so let me know your thoughts on this. E-mail Current Pedorthics at [email protected]. ■

Dennis Collins is president of Tech Image, a public relations firm based in the Chicago area with a national reputation for growing technology companies into market leaders. He has been providing marketing, branding and messaging counsel for more 25 years.

Want more information on the business of your business? An entire issue of Current Pedorthics this fall will be dedicated to the theme of Business Practice Management. Do you have an idea for an article about this topic? Let us know and we’ll help you find answers. E-mail [email protected]. Watch for more articles about the evolving world of social media – and your place in it – in coming issues.


ASSoCiAtioN NEWS

Find the Right Resources in PFA’s BookstoreIn difficult economic times, it helps to have as many tools as possible available to maximize your pedorthic practice/business revenue. To assist PFA members and the pedorthic community at large, PFA highlights six excellent publications available through the PFA Resource Center Bookstore:

Accounts Receivable Management for the Medical PracticeDo you do a great job coding and billing for your services, only to have a significant portion of your revenues leak away during the collection process? Maybe it’s time to take a hard look at your accounts-receivable management. This comprehensive guide takes you step-by-step through the process of analyzing your current receivables and then teaches you how to improve and maintain your A/R management.

PFA Member Price: $63 / Nonmember Price: $79

Collections Made Easy! New Third EditionDo you have trouble getting payment from your patients and insurance carriers? Are you tired of your collection letters and calls being ignored? Are you giving collection agencies too many “easy” accounts? The new third edition of our best-selling collection handbook is designed to help you learn how to collect your past-due accounts yourself, without giving away half of your money to collection agencies. This resource is packed with new information regarding the updated Fair Credit Reporting Act, the HIPAA privacy rule, revised forms, phone scripts and updated information regarding federal laws governing collection activities.


Reimbursement Manual for the Medical OfficeThis is the new fifth edition guide to coding, billing and fee schedule management. From terminology, coding and E/M documentation, to fee schedule review, superbill design and HIPAA, this book covers every step of the reimbursement process.


Getting Paid for What You Do – Coding for Optimal ReimbursementThis is the completely revised fourth edition of the best-selling guide to reimbursement by Gary Knaus. Knaus is known as the father of the coding and reimbursement publishing industry and knows more about coding, billing and reimbursement than anyone else in the country. Tens of thousands of copies of this book have been used to code more accurately, file claims properly and get paid more quickly. A must have for your practice management library.


Medical Practice Forms – Every Form You Need to SucceedGood records help protect your practice from audit liability. Keeping good records requires well-designed forms. The completely revised third edition of this publication includes more than 130 ready-to-use forms for your practice. Forms cover all areas of medical practice, including: clinical, administrative, financial, managed care, insurance, marketing, personnel and systems. Blank forms are easily removed for copying. The book also includes a CD so you can customize any form to meet the needs of your practice.


Modern Coding for Foot & Ankle DMEPOS HCPCS CodesThe Pedorthic Footwear Association’s Modern Coding for Foot & Ankle DMEPOS HCPCS Codes – An Analysis, Explanation, and Clarification by the PFA Coding Committee is designed to give practical and fair advice to today’s pedorthic and other healthcare practitioners dispensing foot and ankle DMEPOS (Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies) devices. It has been developed by PFA’s Coding Committee (PCC), a group formed to provide thoughtful and consistent guidance for pedorthic and other healthcare practitioners. PCC encourages all practitioners dispensing these codes to follow this guidance (C. Ped; L. Ped; BOC Pedorthists; CO; CP; CPO; BOC (O); BOC (P); PT; ATC, DPM; DC). This document fills a huge void in the marketplace – as there has been historically little guidance given relating to the foot codes. Three-ring binder, illustrated, 243 pages.

PFA Member Price: $109 / Nonmember Price: $159(Also available on CD: PFA Member Price: $59 / Nonmember Price: $99)

To place your order today and enhance your pedorthic practice/business’ revenue, visit PFA’s Web site at www.pedorthics.org and click on the “PFA’s Pedorthic Bookstore Online” button to order any or all of these titles. PFA members should remember to log in to the PFA Web site to ensure that they receive exclusive member pricing. Orders received before 3 p.m. Eastern time will be shipped the same day.


educational requirements do the pharmacists have to meet in order to be considered qualified.

Additionally, PFA independently has drafted legislation to be introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that would, if passed, exempt credentialed pedorthists from the facility accreditation and surety bond requirements but, more importantly, finally force CMS to define “qualified provider” as a “credentialed orthotist, credentialed prosthetist, credentialed pedorthist or a credentialed podiatrist,” with the term “credentialed” to mean certified by a CMS-deemed credentialing organization or licensed by a state requiring licensure of these professions. ■

From the President continued from page 8

Board Member Profile continued from page 11

How do you use the member network?We try to develop a relationship with those PFA members that are interested in working with us to accomplish our business mission.

What has surprised you the most about your leadership position in PFA?The amount of work that goes on behind the scenes. Before I became involved I had not appreciated that there were so many different committees, each tasked with the challenge of ensuring that the interests of the PFA membership were represented.

What would you tell other members considering pursuing a PFA leadership position?I would encourage anyone who is interested in the future of pedorthics to consider volunteering. There is without doubt a huge burden of responsibility that is borne by a relatively few people. We need more shoulders.

Please tell us your favorite story of how you’ve helped someone through your work.We have facilities all over the world that use our products when fitting diabetic patients with shoes. My favorite story would be a letter I got from a practitioner at a clinic in New Zealand that reported significant progress in diabetic foot care since they started using our products.

What Web sites do you find useful in your work?The PFA site is a good one for obvious reasons. I find more than a particular Web site, that the subscription newsletters PFA Online, FootwearNews and the Pedorthic Newswire is what keeps me most current.

What’s the last good book you read and good movie you saw?I liked Dick Francis’ book Even Money. The recent movie would be State of Play.

Find out more about O’Hare and his company at www.pedors.com. ■


iNDuStRy NEWS

Pedorthic Foundation Gears up for 2010By Nancy Hultquist

The Pedorthic Foundation’s Board of Directors met in November during PFA’s 2009 Symposium to begin an updated series of activities broadly aimed at assisting both pedorthic practitioners and people with foot problems.

During 2010, the Foundation plans to work in four major activities:

• Research; • Awards; and• Education; • Charitable Clinics.

The Foundation, which was established 35 years ago, used the summer of 2009 to engage in a strategic-planning process regarding the future. Its 12-member board of directors rededicated the Foundation to its original mission of stimulating research that proves the effectiveness of Pedorthics in helping people with foot and foot-related problems – which had been the Foundation’s original mission. In addition, the Foundation embraced the goals of spreading understanding of Pedorthics and encouraging more people to enter the field – as it has done through Pedorthic scholarships, beginning more than 10 years ago.

In the area of research, the Foundation will work to encourage companies and individuals to become more active in conducting research. To that end, the Foundation has begun a review of literature that focuses on Pedorthic research completed during the past two decades, some of which was partially funded by Foundation grants. Once the literature review is completed, pedorthists and other health care providers will have a single location in which to look for information on problems facing their patients. Also, with a central listing of research that has been done in place, the Foundation expects to begin making grants to researchers who are interested in adding to the literature.

In the education arena, the Foundation hopes to encourage more people to enter the field by disseminating information on careers in Pedorthics and on the schools where Pedorthics is taught, as well as making available scholarships to help with financing the education required.

With awards, the Foundation plans to recognize people for contributions in and to the field of Pedorthics. In past years, the Foundation has recognized individuals with the Dawn Janisse “Make a Difference” Award, honoring people who have contributed to Pedorthics and/or its recognition as an allied health field; recently, the Foundation created the Carl Riecken Award in honor of the late certified Pedorthist whose work as an inventor, teacher and mentor to many of today’s Pedorthic leaders helped to shape and grow the profession.

Additional awards suggested during the strategic planning process include recognition for the Pedorthist of the Year, Outstanding Research Contribution, Educational Advancement and Lifetime Achievement. For more information on these categories, or to nominate an individual or a company for an award, practicing pedorthists are invited to contact Foundation via [email protected].

The Foundation launched a new Web site, www.pedorthicfoundation.org, on Nov. 16 to help with its work. The Web site will serve as a central information point, and the Foundation invites the Pedorthic community to frequently visit the site. Additional features will be added to the site as opportunities or needs arise.

“The best Web sites are give-and-take arenas, in which people exchange knowledge,” says Bill Boettge, executive director of the Foundation and former executive director of the PFA. “We hope to provide pedorthists – and those interested in joining the profession – with a place where they can find information that will help them to operate at the highest levels of practice.”

The concept of charitable clinics is high on the Foundation’s list of activities that will increase visibility for the profession.



iNDuStRy NEWS

“We plan to develop a template for clinics, that will tap C.Peds and L.Peds in a given region, partner them with doctors and other health care providers who specialize in foot-related care, and roll out a model which will assist patients who would otherwise be unable to afford Pedorthic care,” says Foundation President Darlene Hall, C.Ped., L.Ped. (OK).

“People who enter our profession get into it because we want to help others,” Hall adds. “If we can put together an effective clinic model, where volunteer practitioners in a given community can provide help to other residents of their community in a concentrated and efficient way, we believe the entire Pedorthic family will respond. Volunteering help for a one- or two-day clinic is a way to bring together practitioners, teachers, manufacturers and suppliers and demonstrate the significance of our profession. It’s an ambitious goal, but it’s incredibly worthwhile and we think it is achievable.”

Members of the Foundation’s Board of Directors include:

• Hall, who practices at U.S. PHS Claremore Indian Hospital in Claremore, Oklahoma;

• Board Vice President Dennis Janisse, C.Ped., National Pedorthic Services, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;

• Secretary-treasurer Jim Moore, C.Ped., Pedorthic Services of New England, Taftville, Connecticut;

• Harriet Cavanah Dart, C.Ped., L.Ped. (IL), Scheck & Siress OP&P, Bannockburn, Illinois;

• Dennis Dillard, C.Ped., Plattner Pedorthic Services, Peoria, Illinois;

• Angela Fleming, L.Ped. (OK), Fleming’s Footwear, Tulsa, Oklahoma;

• Dane LaFontsee, C.Ped., Orthletek, Waterford, Wisconsin;• Alan Johnson, P.W. Minor & Sons, operating from offices

in Denton, Texas;• Wayne Rosen, CPO, C.Ped., BOCOP, Pembroke Pines,

Florida;• Stephen Sadler, C.Ped., Austin, Texas;• Andy Ullman, UCO International, Wheeling, Illinois;• Jim Sajdak, C.Ped., Stan’s Fit for Your Feet, Brookfield,

Wisconsin; and• Paul Weiner, C.Ped., Diabetic Footwear & Supply, Inc.,

Boca Raton, Florida.

For more information on the Foundation, visit www.pedorthicfoundation.org. Members of the pedorthic community are invited to post event information on the Foundation’s Web site by contacting [email protected].

Nancy Hultquist served for 12 years as the Pedorthic Footwear Association’s director of communications. She also spent 10 years as a volunteer staff member to the Pedorthic Foundation, and is currently assisting the Foundation with communication matters.


ABC Fulfills Commitment as CMS Mandatory Accreditation Deadline PassesThe American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc., (ABC) Facility Accreditation department tested its mettle with an unprecedented influx of applications and surveys due to the mandatory accreditation imposed by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for post-mastectomy, Pedorthic and durable medical equipment. This was an enormous undertaking but with the help of all ABC staff members, each facility that applied by the deadline received a decision by October 1, 2009.

As part of the 2003 Medicare Modernization Act, CMS implemented standards of patient care and fraud protection over the entire Durable Medical Equipment Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (DMEPOS) market. An essential component of the Act’s standards requires some Medicare suppliers to adhere to mandatory facility accreditation.

Over the past nine months ABC processed 2,676 applications and surveyed 2,713 facilities in order to get accreditation decisions out to all of the facilities who applied by the January 31 application deadline. This represents an average of over 300 facilities per month.

“We met the accreditation deadline head on,” said Cathy Carter, ABC’s Executive Director. “This deadline tested our surveyors, staff and volunteers, but we were overwhelmingly successful in this undertaking.”

In December 2007 CMS announced that post-mastectomy and durable medical equipment patient care facilities were on the list of those facilities not exempt from the mandatory accreditation requirement set in place by Medicare. Pedorthic facilities were added to the list in December 2008. The CMS mandatory accreditation deadline for all post-mastectomy, durable medical equipment and Pedorthic facilities was September 30, 2009. Any of these facilities providing patient care services must have been accredited by this date in order to continue to bill Medicare.

As CMS contemplates announcing another group of facilities requiring mandatory accreditation, the ABC staff is well prepared to once again meet the challenge.

update on ordering/Referring Provider Front-End PECoS Warning Edits at the Common Electronic Data interchange (CEDi)CEDI errors C200, C201 and C202 are warning errors/edits indicating the Ordering/Referring Provider submitted on the claims was not eligible to order/refer for the service

Pedorthic Foundation Gears up for 2010 continued from page 30

* Not all widths and sizes available in all styles

View our A5500 print catalog on line!www. propetusa.com

A5500 Medicare Coded Therapeutic Footwear Collection

Spring 2010


iNDuStRy NEWS

billed according to the Medicare Part A and Part B Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS). These edits will generate as a warning on the CEDI GENRPT until April 5, 2010. These errors/edits are in place as part of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Change Request 6421 and related Medicare Learning Network (MLN) article MM6421 implemented with the October 2009 Release.

CMS has completed the systematic loading of National Provider Identifiers (NPIs) to the existing records in PECOS that did not contain an NPI. With this update to the PECOS records, CEDI has seen a drop in the number of warning messages being produced on the supplier’s GENRPT.

Prior to April 5, 2010, CMS will make publicly available on the Internet the names and NPIs of the Medicare physicians and non-physician practitioners who are eligible to order or refer in the Medicare program. CEDI will provide notification when this has been completed.

Should a supplier receive one of these warning errors/edits on a claim, CEDI recommends they contact the Ordering/

Referring Provider submitted on the claim and have them verify their eligibility with PECOS. The supplier should also verify with the Ordering/Referring Provider how their name is listed with their PECOS enrollment and ensure the name submitted on the claim matches the PECOS record.

Ordering/Referring providers may use the following Web site to obtain information in relation to PECOS and to enroll and/or access the PECOS system to ensure they are listed and authorized to Order/Refer services for Medicare: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicareProviderSupEnroll/04_InternetbasedPECOS.asp. Providers may also contact their Medicare Part A and/or Part B contractor’s enrollment team in regards to their enrollment file as reflected in PECOS.

If DME suppliers have questions, please contact your Medicare DME MAC Provider Contact Center:

• Jurisdiction A 866-590-6731• Jurisdiction B 866-590-6727• Jurisdiction C 866-238-9650• Jurisdiction D 866-243-7272

update on odering/Referring Provider Front-End PECoS Warning Edits at the Common Electronic Data interchange (CEDi) continued from page 32

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iNDuStRy NEWS

2010 updates to level ii Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System CodesThe following identifies changes made to the 2010 Level II Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes that are of interest to the pedorthic community. All of these changes, along with the most current DME MAC Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) and Policy Articles (PA) for Medicare’s Therapeutic Shoes for Persons with Diabetes benefit (TSD) and AFO-KAFO benefit and 2010 DMEPOS fees schedules, are included in PFA’s pedorthic HCPCS coding manual, Modern Coding for Foot & Ankle DMEPOS HCPCS Codes – An Analysis, Explanation and Clarification by the PFA Coding Committee.

New AFo-KAFo Code:A4466 – GARMENT, BELT, SLEEVE OR OTHER COVERING, ELASTIC OR SIMILAR STRETCHABLE MATERIAL, ANY TYPE, EACH (Note: noncovered).

This code is effective for dates of service on or after Jan. 1.

Narrative Change to l4396:Old Narrative: STATIC ANKLE FOOT ORTHOSIS, INCLUDING SOFT INTERFACE MATERIAL, ADJUSTABLE FOR FIT, FOR POSITIONING, PRESSURE REDUCTION, MAY BE USED FOR MINIMAL AMBULATION, PREFABRICATED, INCLUDES FITTING AND ADJUSTMENT.

New Narrative: STATIC OR DYNAMIC FOOT ORTHOSIS, INCLUDING SOFT INTERFACE MATERIAL, ADJUSTABLE FOR FIT, FOR POSITIONING, MAY BE USED FOR MINIMAL AMBULATION, PREFABRICATED, INCLUDES FITTING AND ADJUSTMENT.

This change is effective for dates of service on or after Jan. 1.

Discontinued Code:L2770 – ANKLE ORTHOSIS, ELASTIC, PREFABRICATED, INCLUDES FITTING AND ADJUSTMENT (e.g., NEOPRENE, LYCRA).

L2770 crosswalked to new AFO-KAFO Code A4466 (see above).

The L2770 will be accepted for dates of service on or before Dec. 31, 2009. The A4466 will be accepted for dates of service on or after Jan. 1.

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rigorous standards. Choose to be recognized among the best!Call 703-836-7114 or go online at www.abcop.org

ABC—setting the standard for certification for over 60 years and still going strong!


Fraud – What to Do if you Have information About Medicare or Medicaid Program Abuse:If you have information about fraudulent activities impacting the Medicare program, contact any of the regional offices of OIG, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, at the following locations:

Regional Offices States Served Telephone

Office States Served Telephone

Boston MA, CT, ME, NH, RI, VT (617) 565-2664

New York NY, NJ, PR, VI (212) 264-1691

Philadelphia PA, DE, DC, MD, VA, WV (215) 861-4586

Atlanta AL, GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, MS (404) 562-7603

Chicago IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI (312) 353-2740

Dallas TX, LA, AR, OK, NM (214) 767-8406

Kansas City MO, ND, SD, MT, KS, IA, CO, NE, UT, WY

(816) 426-4000

San Francisco No. CA, OR, WA, ID, AK (415) 437-7961

Los Angeles So. CA, AZ, NV, HI (714) 246-8302

Miami FL (305) 530-7756

help you, the credentialed pedorthist. Your talents can be used. This is a big organization and it is YOUR organization. You never know when a thought you had did not occur to someone else. The benefits to your industry, your fellow pedorthists as well as to yourself could be huge.”

PFA is thankful to Rob for his vigor and passions that prompted him to bring an idea that turned into something bigger. Like Rob, all of PFA’s volunteers generously provide their time and energy to help us plan and implement a compilation of ideas and workload to benefit YOU. So, with 60 to 70 percent of the population being extroverted, I’m betting at least half of you have an idea for PFA that you would be happy to share.

The PFA Board is just like you! We are a combination of credentialed pedorthists from various pedorthic settings with various areas of expertise. We are leaders that you nominated and voted onto the board to give back to our profession so it can thrive. We volunteer our time to keep pedorthics in the foreground as a viable profession. PFA is your friend, colleague and partner.

Read PFA Online, Current Pedorthics and attend membership meetings at the Annual Symposium, you will see the enormous scope of work we do in every category. Whether it is marketing, education or government relations, we cannot do it alone. Help us help you. Contact PFA with your ideas and suggestions to be part of solutions to issues we all face.

THIS IS OUR ORGANIZATION AND OUR RESPONSIBILITY – TOGETHER, WE CAN ACCOMPLISH GREATNESS. ■

From the Editor continued from page 6


iNDuStRy NEWS

BoC Elects Chairwoman and Four officersSharon Nichelson, CMOF, has been elected chairwoman of The Board of Certification/ Accreditation, International (BOC), succeeding Preston Madler, BOCO. During its November meeting in Owings Mills, Maryland, the Board of Directors also elected to office:

• John Kenney, BOCO, BOC vice chairman;• Kimberly Hertz, BOCO, CMF, secretary;• Joe Lawson, BOCO, treasurer; and• Jim Hewlett, BOCO, member-at-large.

Nichelson practices mastectomy fitting and orthotic fitting with Frontier Home Medical in North Platte, Nebraska. She was first elected to BOC’s Board in 2006. A BOC item writer for the certified orthotics fitter exam, Nichelson has been a member of the BOC Legislative Committee and the Ethics Committee, and she has served for two years as BOC’s vice chairwoman.

Nichelson is also the immediate past chairwoman of the Region D DMERC Advisory Committee, a non-profit volunteer organization comprised of home medical equipment (HME) providers, state and national associations, manufacturer supporters and industry consultants in 17 states. Its primary function is to serve as a communications vehicle enabling the HME industry to liaison with administrators and the DMERC staff within a 17-state region, addressing and resolving issues that arise regarding Medicare policies and billing practices.

“BOC has two major constituencies, the practitioners, and the accredited facilities that employ them,” Nichelson says. “There’s a significant difference between individual qualifications and institutional ones, but where the two intersect is in their commitment to patient care. One of my goals for BOC is to build alliances with other organizations interested in promoting that intersection.

“As the health care and health insurance debates heat up nationally, I also think one of our most important duties as practitioners is to communicate clearly and candidly with our patients and the other members of the health care team,” she adds. “In the O&P field, our goal is to help restore our patients’ self-confidence and physical well-being after what is most often an emotionally traumatic experience. Frequently, we serve as a communications bridge leading to optimum outcomes for our patients. I hope we can take the bridge concept a step further, exploring ways to ensure that our employment surroundings give us everything it takes to perform at the highest level.”

BOC president Claudia Zacharias, MBA, CAE, concurs. “BOC practitioners play an ongoing role in patients’ lives,” she says. “There’s a confidence level that has to exist for the combination of physical and emotional healing to take place as rapidly as possible. As BOC continues to certify

practitioners in five different specialties, and continues to accredit facilities as CMS-compliant locations, it will be important to be an advocate on behalf of the multiple providers engaged in patient care.”

BOC’s elected officers are continuous members of the Board, which is comprised of 14 individuals and includes 11 O&P practitioners.

Kenney is president of NeuroFlex Orthotics, Inc. in Laguna Hills, California. An inventor who holds several patents for orthotic device design, Kenney is also a partner in OSCI/NeuroFlex, a pre-fab orthosis manufacturer in Florida. He entered O&P in 1995 and was elected to BOC’s Board in 2007. For the past two years, he has served as the Board’s secretary.

Hertz has been a member of BOC’s Board for five years. She is employed by Hanger P&O of Spring Valley, New York. One of her particular interests has been speaking and writing on mastectomy fitting, and advocating that fitters increase their skills and potential through both certification and continuing education.

Lawson is the managing partner in Lawson Medical, LLC, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He entered O&P in 1998 as a registered fitter; he earned his orthotics certfication while building Lawson Medical into a company with locations in Virginia, the District of Columbia and Delaware. This is his second term as treasurer.

Jim Hewlett brings nearly 40 years of experience to the Board, including marketing, owning DME businesses, operating an O&P facility and serving as a consultant to both DME services and O&P practices. This is his second term as member-at-large.

“BOC is fortunate to be able to call on the services of such a gifted and dedicated group of practitioners,” says Zacharias. “Sharon’s knowledge of BOC’s activities and her tremendous leadership skills will serve BOC well. I look forward to working with her and with the rest of the Board to take BOC into a bright future.”

Both Zacharias and Nichelson also took time to thank outgoing Immediate Past Chairwoman of the Board Teresa Alpert-Leibman, Dr. Bradley Lamm and Jessie Margulies, Esq., for their services to the Board. The terms of all three will conclude on December 31, 2009. Zacharias expressed gratitude for their strong leadership, and Nichelson noted that the three have offered BOC “great direction and vision. It’s an honor to carry forward their work.”

Since 1984, the Board of Certification/Accreditation, International (BOC) has provided credentials demonstrating the competence and proficiency of O&P professionals. BOC offers NCCA-accredited orthotic, prosthetic, pedorthic, orthotic fitter, and mastectomy fitter certification programs. BOC’s facility accreditation program partners with DMEPOS suppliers to meet CMS standards and improve business practices. BOC credentials celebrate and recognize the competence, professionalism and safe practice environments of BOC-certified practitioners and BOC-accredited facilities. ■

vENDoR NEWS


AEtREX introduces Berries CollectionAetrex Worldwide Inc. recently unveiled a new women’s collection, Berries, featuring innovative technologies in fit and flexibility in a variety of exciting colors.

“There is nothing like these shoes in the market today”, says Larry Schwartz, CEO, Aetrex. “In many ways I feel that this line is the culmination of our unique and very diverse background in this industry. We’ve combined spandex, memory foam and mozaic customization with colorful, fun fashion to create an extraordinary line of women’s footwear.”

Berries consists of Clogs, Slip-Ons and Mary Janes that are available in nine eye-catching colors. The uppers are made primarily from stretch fabrics, spandex and memory foam that naturally conform to your foot, without any pressure or discomfort.

“This is the most excited I’ve ever been about a new product launch at Aetrex,” says Susan Ryder, Aetrex Women’s Product Director, who designed the line. “Women involved in our fit trials just wouldn’t take them off their feet. What’s more, the color palate includes lavender and orange as well as rich burgundy and olives that will capture customer’s attention.”

All shoes in the Berries collection will have an MSRP of $99 and be available to ship sometime this spring. In addition to Berries, Aetrex will be introducing several new styles of comfort casuals for men and women, wedges and new performance runners and fitness trainers.

Acor introduces New MaterialsCoronet Mitika ASL is a luxurious suede-like microfiber fabric that is an excellent top cover. It is available in black, tan and khaki. PolyWorks Gel cushions the foot and displaces pressure. This gel has a silver ionic surface making it

naturally anti-microbial and available in 1mm or 2mm thickness. Cordura is a ballistic fabric that militaries use around the world. In our industry it is perfect for a resilient foot orthotic bottom cover.

Along with these new introductions, Acor has expanded some familiar product lines. P-Cell is now available in black as well as pink. Microcel Puff has a new 45 Durometer option in white that is perfect for posting. You can choose NeoSponge with a new black or original blue nylon cover, and scrim-covered Poron Medical Urethane is now available in sheets.

For more information, see www.acor.com or call (800) 237-2267, Option 2. ■

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OLIVIA T09860Adjustabl Velcro Fit

Medicare A5500Coding Approved

Clinic_Extra_Ad:Layout 1 1/12/10 3:01 PM Page 1


PEDoRtHiC iNDuStRy EvENtS

MAy 2010May 7Foot Solutions, Marietta, GA

One-Day Cram Session

Contact: Tracy Strickland, (866) 338-2597, ext. 206, [email protected]; Betty Hubauer, (866) 338-2597, ext., 201, [email protected]; or, Dr. William Faddock, (866) 338-2597, ext. 209, [email protected]

PEDoRtHiC EDuCAtioN CAlENDAR uPoN REQuEStEneslow Pedorthic Institute

470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY

Training and Tutoring Program, Individual and Small Groups

Contact Sarah Goldberg, (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or [email protected], or visit www.eneslow.com/epi

CouRSESRobert M. Palmer M.D., Institute of Biomechanics

1601 Main St., Elwood, IN

Courses providing pedorthic education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Also offering traveling courses to your area. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available.

Contact Pam Haig, (765) 557-7216; [email protected]; www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org

CFS Allied Health Education

Pedorthic Certification: Exam Review

This program focuses 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.

Phone: (918) 266-3678 or visit www.LearnPedorthics.com for additional information.

Scholl College at Rosalind Franklin University

Pedorthic pre-certification course

Contact: Ellie Wydeven, Special Programs Office, (847) 578-8410, [email protected], or visit www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce

MoNtHlyRiecken’s Orthotic Labs

5115 Oak Grove Rd., Evansville, Ind. SAFIO Class and Wax and Sand Casting Class, held on an as-needed basis. Contact Charles at (800) 331-8040, extension 102.

May 10 – 21Foot Solutions, Marietta, GA

Pedorthic Pre-Certification Class


July 2010July 30Foot Solutions, Marietta, GA



AuGuSt 2010August 9 – 20Foot Solutions, Marietta, GA

Pedorthic Pre-Certification Class


NovEMBER 2010November 12 Foot Solutions, Marietta, GA



November 18 – 21Pedorthic Footwear Association and the Pedorthic Association of Canada

North American Pedorthic Congress

Hilton in the Walt Disney World Resort

Orlando, FL

Contact: PFA: (202) 367-1145; [email protected]; www.pedorthics.org

PAC: (204) 975-8200; [email protected]; www.pedorthic.ca

NovEMBER 2011November 10 – 13Pedorthic Footwear Association

52nd Annual Symposium and Exhibition

Albuquerque Convention Center

Albuquerque, NM

Contact: (202) 367-1145; [email protected]; www.pedorthics.org


HElP WANtED

CERtiFiED PEDoRtHiSt – F/t PoSitioN AvAilABlE iN MASSACHuSEttSGrowing healthcare services company has an immediate opening for an experienced Certified Pedorthist. Candidates must be able to work closely with Podiatrists and possess strong professional skills. Position includes travel to various long-term care facilities. We offer a well- established patient base, company car and a competitive compensation package. If interested, please call Maria at (877) 724-4410 or email your resume to [email protected] . Please visit our website at www.healthdrive.com (103009)

Full-tiME CERtiFiED PEDoRtHiSt oPPoRtuNity iN MASSACHuSEttSHealthDrive is growing and has a new F/T opportunity available for an experienced Certified Pedorthist. Candidates must be able to work closely with Podiatrists and possess strong professional skills. Position includes travel to various long term care facilities in Worcester and Western MA areas. We offer a well-established patient base, company car and a competitive compensation package. If interested, please call Maria at (877) 724-4410 or email your resume to [email protected]. (110609)

SEEKiNG Full-tiME CERtiFiED PEDoRtHiStSeeking Full-Time Certified Pedorthist for our New Balance Stores in Washington, DC, McLean, VA and Baltimore, MD. Candidates must have fabrication experience and patient skills. Retail fitting experience a plus! Send resumes to [email protected] or call John Strojny at (302) 230.3062 ext. 901. (111109)

SEEKiNG Full-tiME CERtiFiED PEDoRtHiStJoin Scott & White and discover the benefits of a nationally-recognized healthcare organization with plenty of open doors. Our dedication to leading research, lifelong learning and professional mobility provides you with plenty of ways to reach your ideal destination. The choice is easy.

Scott & White currently has the following opportunity available: Certified Pedorthist, Temple, TX

You will design, manufacture, fit and modify shoes and related foot appliances as prescribed for the amelioration of painful and/or disabling conditions of the foot and limb.

Requires HS diploma or equivalent. Certification by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthestics and Pedorthics also required. You’ll need one to two years of experience working in a

pedorthic facility with direct patient care; five to seven years’ preferred. Must have excellent patient relations skills. Must work with hands in fitting shoes. Will fabricate and modify foot orthoses.

Join us, and believe in your career. To learn more about this and other opportunities, visit our careers link at: http://careers.sw.org.

Scott & White is a fully integrated health system and is the largest multi-specialty practice in Texas, and the sixth largest group practice in the nation. Scott & White employs more than 775 physicians and research scientists who care for patients covering 25,000 square miles across Central Texas. Scott & White has a 636-bed Level I Trauma acute care facility in Temple, an additional 50-bed Long Term Acute Care Hospital in Texas, another 150-bed acute care hospital in Temple, a 76-bed acute care facility in Round Rock (greater Austin area), and a network of 50 primary and specialty clinics throughout the region.

Scott & White is an Equal Opportunity Employer | Tobacco-Free Environment.

FoR SAlE

PEDoRtHiC PRACtiCE/SHoE StoREAttach yourself to a “Pioneer” in the industry and be part of the future of orthotics with Bill Peterson’s Dynamic Foot Systems (www.dynamicfootsystems.com)

Located in Newport, RI, this established practice has a reputation for excellence within the medical, performance athletic and retail communities in a tri-state area. Sale includes leasehold improvements, inventory, over 3,700 patient files and physician referrals plus use of proprietary technology in a protected geographic area. Owner moving to open new location. Contact [email protected]. (011210)

CoMFoRt SHoE StoRE FoR SAlEPort St.Lucie, Florida. Established Comfort Shoe store. Asking 95K. Inventory 160K. Physician referrals, Medicare diabetic shoe provider. Contact: www.drshoestore.com; phone: (772) 486-3692; or, [email protected] (120909)

DiABEtiC FootWEAR iNvENtoRy FoR SAlEI am no longer a Medicare DMEPOS supplier and am selling my inventory of SADMERC approved footwear, mainly PW Minor. Approximately 100 pairs of shoes at $30/pair for 10 pair or more (a minimum discount of $20/pair), or make me an offer for the entire stock. Email [email protected] or call for a detailed list (505) 920-9211.(100809)

BuSiNESS SoFtWARE SPECiFiCAlly DESiGNED FoR oRtHoPEDiC SHoE StoRESOrthopedic Shoe Store Automation (OSSA) will help you manage and grow your business. OSSA software is network ready and runs on a standard PC with Microsoft 2000, XP or Vista. Inventory management is a snap because OSSA uses the standard UPC barcode on the products to automate the inventory process. Records can be transferred to OSSA from QuickBooks and other record keeping systems. Features include:

• Point of Sale• Patient records (unlimited)• Scheduling• Physician referrals linked to patient sale• Diabetic reminder notices• Commission processing• Patient photo management• Patient charting• Insurance code processing• Track sales from doctor referrals• Inventory management• Order processing• Powerful mailing capabilities• Track advertising results• Employee sales performance• Employee time clock• Full security• Document management (paperless office)• Business reports• GMROI

Call or Email Engwer & Associates at (412) 751-2433 [email protected] to schedule a comprehensive online demonstration of OSSA. (121708C)

PEDoRtHiC MARKEtPlACE

Classified Advertising Rates

Words PFA Member PFA Non-Member

50 or fewer words $25 $45

51-75 words $45 $65

76-150 words $65 $125The above rates are calculated by counting complete words. (A telephone number is counted as a complete word.)

To place a classified ad contact [email protected], send a fax to (202) 367-2145, or mail to Current Pedorthics, 2025 M St., NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036.


PRoDuCt REFERENCE GuiDE

Acor (1979)Custom and comfort footwear, inserts and materials. Originator of Tri-Lam and P-Cell.

Cleveland, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-237-2267Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216-662-4547E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.acor.com

Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. (1973)Aetrex Worldwide has been a supplier of footcare products for 60 years. Aetrex’s brands include Aetrex® and Apex Footwear, Lynco® Orthotics, iStep® and raw materials.

Teaneck, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-526-2739Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201-833-1485E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.aetrex.com

Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. (1998)Affinity Insurance Services administers the PFA product and malpractice liability insurance program. Designed for pedorthists, insurance protection can be customized for each-PFA member.

Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-544-2672Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312-922-9321

AGS Footwear Group (1995)Shoe store supplies, fabricating materials, prefabricated orthotics, heel cups and forefoot supports.

Ashland, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-446-3820Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-822-0180E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.agsfootweargroup.com

American Shoe Corporation (2003)Custom shoe company. Complete lines for diabetic, arthritic and geriatric patients. 15-day manufacturing time and fully guaranteed fit and finish on each pair.

Bedford Hill, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 914-241-0422Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 914-241-1974E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

American Sporting Goods Corp. (2009)Aliso Viejo, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 949-267-2800Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 949-225-6386E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Amfit Inc. (1996)Footfax-SL 3D Contact Digitizer, Footprinter Foam Casting System, precision CAD/CAM Carving Mill, accommodative and functional custom foot orthoses and orthotic sandals.

Vancouver, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-356-3668Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 360-566-1380E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.amfit.com

Apis Footwear Company (2000)Women’s footwear, 103 sizes; men’s footwear, 98 sizes. Open stock for immediate delivery.

S. El Monte, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-937-2747Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 626-448-8783E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.bignwideshoes.com

Atlas International (1994)For pedorthic needs. Complete range of materials, prefabs and tools.

Rancho Cordova, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-545-6287Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 916-858-3320E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.atlasortho.com

Bintz Company, Inc. (1991)Distributor of pre-molded orthotics, comfort foot products, sheet goods and fitting aids. Products from Birkenstock, Pedag, Spenco, Pedifix, Knit-Rite, Powerstep, Hapad, Sroufe, Khepra and more.

Wheaton, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-235-8458Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-653-5077E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.bintzco.com

Biomechanical Services Inc. (2004)Custom foot orthotics as well as lower extremity evaluation systems, custom sandals, prefabs, balance therapy tools and educational courses. Technical support services.

Brea, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-942-2272Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 714-990-4060E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.biomechanical.com

Branier Orthopedic Custom Molded Shoes (2004)Catalogue contains over 40 styles. Can duplicate any shoe on the market. 12-day turnaround, great fit!

Sunrise, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-524-0639Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954-727-2608E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.branier.com

Brooks Sports, Inc. (2001)Walking/athletic shoes in women’s and men’s styles. Delivery includes special orders.

Bothell, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-2-BROOKSFax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 425-483-8181E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.brooksrunning.com

Cloud Nine Sheepskin (2008)Lynnwood, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 425-776-1650Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 425-672-3958E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sheepskin.com

Cluffy Biomedical (2008)Great Falls, MT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 406-590-3668Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 406-761-7219E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

C.N. Waterhouse Leather Co., Inc. (1998)Manufacturer and distributor of fine leathers, woolskins, suede pig-skins, sheet goods and adhesives for use in the pedorthic footwear and orthopedic industries.

Bedford, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-322-1177Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 781-271-0499E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

DB Shoes Ltd. (2003)Manufacturers of direct injection molded footwear.

Rushden, Norhamptonshire, England .+00 44 1933 359217Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .+00 44 1933 410218E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dbshoes.co.uk

Doctor Specified (2008)The Doctor Specified line has been specially developed for the discerning consumer or those among us with foot or general health issues. The line includes Diabetic and Medical Grade categories, which feature socks that are specific in need and technically advanced.

By incorporating features such as hand-linked seamless toes, extra-deep heel wells, and our proprietary Med Dry® moisture management system, we have produced a product line unique to the U.S. market.

Hickory, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 828-485-3316Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 828-485-0049E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.doctorspecified.com

Dr. Comfort (2004)Dr. Comfort manufactures, warehouses and distributes the finest quality extra-depth shoes for diabetics or patients who need quality comfort shoes.

Mequon, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .262-242-5300Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262-242-9300E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.drcomfortdpm.com

Dr. Kong Footcare Limited (2005)Manufacturer of children’s, men’s and women’s healthy shoes insoles, footcare accessories and computerized assessment software. 33 chain shoe shops in Hong Kong. Provides check and fit services and healthy products for everybody.

Kwai Chung, N.T., Hong Kong . . . . . . . . . . 852-2744-2638Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .852-2744-8845E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dr-kong.footcare.com.hk

This reference guide is intended solely to make it easier for individuals, facilities and companies to locate pedorthic products. Companies listed in the guide are PFA vendor/manufacturer members. Companies may produce additional products beyond those listed, and most companies are pleased to provide additional information on request. As a courtesy to our readers, CP has noted the year the company joined PFA in parentheses after the company’s name. Inclusion in this list does not suggest or imply PFA endorsement of companies or products. For space reasons, company product descriptions are limited to 20 words or less. To arrange changes in your company’s listing, e-mail [email protected].



Drew Shoe Corporation (1968)Men’s and women’s depth and comfort footwear in over 150 sizes.

Lancaster, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-837-3739Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-654-4979E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.drewshoe.com

eSoles (2009)eSoles vision is to become the world’s premier brand name and technological leader in custom footbeds for consumers seeking superior athletic performance, lifestyle and medical benefits. eSoles custom footbeds were born with a sporting heritage that grew out of the passion of a world class athlete and the ingenuity of a certified pedorthist.

Scottsdale, AZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 480-222-7333Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 480-315-1790E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.esoles.com

Euro International, Inc. (1997)Preformed insoles, diabetic shoes and materials in different hardnesses, especially for diabetics.

Tampa, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-378-2480Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 813-246-5998E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.eurointl.com

Ever-Flex, Inc. (2008)Ever-Flex is a well-respected manufacturer of fine medical foot orthotics. Specialized laboratory technicians in both the United States and United Kingdom precisely form and finish custom Rx and prefabricated orthotics that are dispensed by healthcare professionals worldwide. We offer a complete line of orthotics that have proven successful in the treatment of neuromas, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, poor posture and other medical problems relating to the foot, ankle, knee and back.

Taylor, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 734-947-2060Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 734-947-9372E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ever-flex.com

Finn Comfort (1993)Luxury comfort footwear. Men’s and women’s walking shoes, sandals and boots featuring removable/modifiable orthopedic footbeds. Hand-crafted in Germany.

Thousand Oaks, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .805-375-0038Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 805-375-0848E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.finncomfort.de

Frankford Leather Company, Inc. (1997)Diabetic seamfree socks, foot comfort products, shoes, shoe modification/shoe repair supplies, foam impression kits, specialty adhesives and more. Same-day shipping. Products from Apex, Soletech, Vibram, EVA, Sher, Dryz, etc. Catalogs available.

Bensalem, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-245-5555Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215-244-4411E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.frankfordleather.com

Guard Industries, Inc. (1996)Components for shoe care, foot comfort, orthotics and prosthetics. Complete listing of available products will be sent upon request.

St. Louis, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-535-3508Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314-534-0035E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.guardmfg.com

Haflinger/Highlander (Gerda Hoehm) (1999)Boiled wool slippers, latex arch support, felt and leather clogs, cork molded footbed. Highlander is Gerda Hoehm’s new high-quality comfort line with a removable footbed. Both Haflinger and Highlander are made in Germany.

New York, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-949-6767Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-949-8833E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Hapad, Inc. (1988)Hapad is a leading manufacturer of 100% natural wool felt foot products and sports replacement insoles used for conservative management of common, painful foot complaints. Correctly sized, comfortably skived and adhesive backed for quick and effective adjustments in the shoe.

Bethel Park, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-544-2723Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-232-9427E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hapad.com

InStride Shoes (2003)InStride is a manufacturer of Medicare reimbursable, multiple width footwear for diabetics that features the three layer Custom Fit System.

Hillsborough, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .866-9-MY-FEETFax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 908-359-7434E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.instrideshoes.com

J.H. Cook & Sons, Inc. (2004)Shoe modification components, foot comfort products and shoe repair supplies. Products from Aetrex, Spenco, Vibram and Soletech.

Granite Quarry, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-279-5568Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .704-279-5261E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Jerry Miller I.D. Shoes, Inc. (1977)Jerry Miller Shoes extensive custom-molded shoemaking experience has also been applied to a new family of custom AFOs - Buffalo Brace. Both shoes and braces feature state-of-the-art CAD technology, high quality glove leather, various color options and a choice of closure methods. Jerry Miller Shoes and Buffalo Brace. For all walks of life!

Buffalo, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-435-0065Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 716-881-0349Web sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.jerrymillershoes.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.buffalobrace.net

JMS Plastics Supply (1992)JMS Plastics distributes all your needs to make a quality Foot Orthotic. We stockTL-2100/ TL-silver and now XTX our newest composite material. Along with a complete line of EVA in many colors/ thicknesses and durometers. JMS now carries a complete line of insoles, from The Healix care footbeds with Bamboo and Silver top covers to Superstep in 3 rigidities and the complete line of Sof Sole insoles. JMS is the first company to have a Bamboo top cover laminated onto Neoprene. Bamboolon comes in sheets. We also carry a full line of Poron in sheets/wheels and rolls. Call 1-800-342-2602 for free samples and a current catalog.

Neptune, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-342-2602Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-918-1131Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.jmsplastics.com

Justin Blair & Company (2001)Manufacturer of Ralyn Shoe Care and Backroom Supplies and NightCare Foot Care. Distributor for Aetrex, Acor, Darco, Herbal Concepts, Pedifix, Swede-O, Silipos and Therafirm.

Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-566-0664Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 773-523-3639E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.justinblairco.com

KLM Laboratories (2006)An industry leader in the manufacture of foot orthotics and insoles, specializing in custom orthotics, pre-fabricated orthotics, orthotic insoles and orthotic materials.

Valencia, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-556-3668Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-556-3338Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.klmlabs.com

Klogs-USA (2007)Sullivan, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 573-468-5564Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 573-468-5560E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Kumfs Shoes N.Z., Ltd. (1998)Quality, thoughtfully designed shoes and sandals. Orthotics friendly with specialist designed removable contoured footbeds.

El Dorado Hills, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530-676-9960Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530-676-9965E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kumfs.com

Landesman Bros., Inc. (2003)Distributors of foot comfort products, pedorthic, orthopedic and wound care supplies. Same day shipping.

Island Park, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-852-8855Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 516-889-1253E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.landesmanbros.com

Lord Custom Molded Shoes, Inc. (1994)Fashionable custom-molded shoes for men, women, and children. Guaranteed fit and service.

Bohemia, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-SHOES11Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 516-471-3090MacPherson Leather Company (2005)Seattle, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206-328-0855Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206-328-0859E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

MEGA Comfort, Inc. (2008)MEGAComfort represents a vision formulated from over 10 years of research, design and just good old fashioned hard work. All MEGAComfort products are Ergonomically Designed by Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, Dr. Kevan Orvitz.

Irvine, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-639-2266E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.megacomfort.com

Miami Leather Company (2001)Wholesaler to the orthopedic, prosthetic, retail shoe and shoe repair trades. Wide variety of products.

Miami, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305-266-8328Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305-266-8728E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.miamileather.com

M. J. Markell Shoe Company, Inc. (1973)Men’s, women’s and children’s comfort and orthopedic footwear.

Yonkers, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 914-963-2258Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 914-963-9293E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.markellshoe.com

Don’t get bitten by heel slip and ankle rub. Natural Step extra depththerapeutic shoes are designed by podiatrists and pedorthists to ensure comfort aswell as fit. All of our shoes come standard with an out-flare heel, as well as a rockerbottom sole, and are available in four distinct widths. A combination last with a

narrower heel helps keep dogs at bay… in style. To see how happy your patients’ dogs can be, callus toll free at 866-500-SHOE (7463) or visit www.naturalstepshoes.com.

Problem dogs? Make them happy again with Natural Step’s comfort and style.



MMAR Medical Group, Inc. (2003)Distributor of multiple diabetic shoe brands at manufacturer-direct wholesale pricing. Other products include AFO’s, ankle braces and cam walkers.

Houston, TX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-662-7633Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 713-465-2818E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mmarmedical.com

Munro & Company, Inc. (2000)Hot Springs, AR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 501-262-6156Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 501-262-6165

Natural Step (2004)Manufacturer of men’s and ladies’ handsewn moccasin extra-depth shoes. Available in a large selection of sizes and widths.

Jupiter, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-500-7463Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-540-7463E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.naturalstepshoes.com

New Balance/Aravon (1990)New Balance is a leading manufacturer of technologically innovative athletic products.

Boston, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 617-783-4000Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 617-783-7050Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.newbalance.com

Oasis Footwear, LLC (2009)Oasis Footwear was founded on the principle of prevention, wellness, and style through our diabetic shoes and inserts. We strive to offer the diabetic patients a shoe they will want to wear. Oasis Footwear is ‘Diabetic Footwear Redefined.’ To learn more, visit our website today at www.oasisfeet.com.

Erie, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-384-7579Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-217-1354E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.oasisfeet.com

Orthofeet, Inc. (1999)Manufacturer and distributor of high quality depth-shoes and orthotics.

Northvale, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-524-2845Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201-767-6748E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.orthofeet.com

PartnerShip (2000)PartnerShip, in cooperation with PFA, offers members-only discounts and savings on small package shipping with FedEx Ground, and on large freight shipments with Yellow Freight.

Oberlin, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-599-2902Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440-774-2823

PediFix, Inc. (2001)High quality pressure relief footcare products.

Brewster, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-424-5561Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 845-277-2851E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.pedifix.com

Pedors Shoes (1999)Orthopedic shoes with a neoprene forefoot.

Marietta, GA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-750-6729Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-446-3101Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.pedors.com

PEL Supply Company (1995)Wholesale distributor stocks broad selection of finished foot and arch products, materials and tools for fabricating foot orthotics.

Cleveland, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-321-1264Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-222-6176E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.pelsupply.com

Pine Tree Orthopedic Lab (2007)As an orthopedic lab, we offer physicians across the nation high quality leather covered AFO’s (Ankle Foot Orthoses), custom orthotics, semi-custom orthotics, and diabetic inserts. For more information on a specific product line, please visit our website.

We pride ourselves in manufacturing high quality devices using the most durable materials possible. With standard five business day turnaround, and exceptional customer service, it is time to see what PTOL can do for you!

Livermorefalls, ME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207-897-5558Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207-897 1117E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.pinetreeorthpedic.com

Poly Gel (1991)GEL SMART is the preferred supplier of elastomer polymer gels for companies with particular requirements for soft gels in low and ultra-low Shore A-3 durometer ranges and maximum choice and versatility.

Whippany, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 973-884-8995E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.gelsmart.net

Propet USA, Inc. (2000)Leading manufacturer in men’s and women’s comfort walking shoes. Available in up to 5 widths, sizes 5-13 in women’s, 7-17 in men’s. Propet features a vast selection of Medicare A5500 coded footwear with removable orthotics, secure closure and maximum customization.

Kent, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-877-6738Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-597-8668E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.propetusa.com

P.W. Minor, Inc. (1968)Footwear products for foothealth.

Batavia, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 585-343-1500Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 585-343-1514Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.pwminor.com

Quality Outcomes, LLC (2007)Quality Outcomes helps remove the stress and worry associated with complying with the mandatory Medicare accreditation process. Not just guidance and recommendations, but the leadership and expertise needed to maintain your specific policies and procedures while ensuring your organization continues to comply with accreditation requirements. Let Quality Outcomes handle the organization and paperwork burden so you can see more patients and increase your profits!

Fredericksburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-986-3004E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.qualityoutcomes.org

Remington Products (2000)Insoles and sheet packages, rigid arch supports, viscoelastic heel cups, 3/4 and full insoles.

Wadsworth, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330-335-1571Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330-336-9462E-mail Adress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.remprod.com

Renia GmbH (2001)Specially designed adhesives and components for the shoe industry, shoe repair trade, and O & P industry.

Cologne, Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49-221-6307990Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49-221-63079950E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.renia.com

Rogers Corporation (1995)Offers a wide selection of specialty materials for-the health care industry, including PORON Medical urethanes, Bisco silicone materials and Polyolefin foams.

Woodstock, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 860-928-3622Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 860-928-7843E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.litporonhc.comWeb site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.rogerscorporation.com

Ruby Leather & Orthopedic Company Inc. (1998)Milwaukee, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 414-778-2288Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 414-778-2047

SAS Shoemakers (1992)Comfort walking shoes for women and men in a range of widths and sizes.

San Antonio, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210-924-6561Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210-921-7441E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sas-shoes.net

STS Company (1997)Resin-impregnated tubular and fitted socks made to take foot and ankle impressions for custom shoes and foot/ankle orthotic devices.

Mill Valley, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-787-9097Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 415-381-4610E-mail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.stssox.com

Sequoia/Comfort Rite (1998)Quality comfort footwear in a variety of sizes and widths.

New Holstein, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-898-5556Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 920-898-4605



Shoe Systems Plus, Inc. (2003)Complete line of orthotic and prosthetic equipment including finishers/grinders, vacuum pans, pumps, presses, industrial sewing machines, fume busters and more.

Goshen, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-354-6278Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 845-291-7097E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.shoesystemsplus.com

Sole Custom Footbeds (2007)Calgary, Alberta, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-204-0907Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 604-608-3596Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.yoursole.com

SoleTech, Inc. (1994)Orthopedic footwear, cushioning and rubber materials, and adhesives.

Salem, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-225-2192Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 978-741-2091E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.soletech.com

Solidschuhwerk GMBH (2006)Tuttlingen, Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 074-619-6120Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 746-196-1270

Southern Leather Company (1996)Seven locations nationwide. The most extensive pedorthic and shoe care/repair inventory in the industry. Inventory includes Apex, Soletech, Eva, Vibram and Acor.

Memphis, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-844-6767Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-946-1059E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Spira (2004)El Paso, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-838-8640Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .915-838-8641

Sroufe Healthcare Products LLC (2006)Custom diabetic inlays, casting foam boxes, pre-fabricated orthotics and orthopedic softgoods.

Ligonier, IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260-894-4171Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260-894-4092E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sroufe.com

Superfeet Worldwide LLP (2003)Ferndale, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 360-384-1820Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 360-384-2724E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

SureFit, Inc. (2009)SureFit features an expanded line of SureFit branded shoes, popular shoe brands, DME products, and alternate therapies for patients with neuropathy. SureFit is a Richie Brace provider.

Coral Springs, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-455-8872Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 954-752-8995E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.surefitlab.com

Tekscan, Inc. (1994)Broad range of pressure assessment and clinical/research evaluation tools for use in orthotics, brace evaluations, joint biomechanics, and gait analysis.

Boston, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .617-464-4500Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 617-464-4266E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tekscan.com

Therafirm (A Division of Knit-Rite, Inc.) (1999)Quality medical-grade compression hosiery and diabetic socks.

Ellerbe, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-562-2701Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 910-652-2438Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.therafirm.com

Thor-Lo, Inc. (2001)Statesville, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-872-6522Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-838-6323

Trulife (2006)Jackson, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-788-2267Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-245-3765E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Tru-Mold Shoes, Inc. (1980)Tru-Mold Shoes offers a complete line of contemporary, fully accommodating custom-molded shoes, including the Thera-Medic Shoe package – the most flexible, highest value shoe package for Medicare-eligible patients with diabetes.

Buffalo, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-843-6653Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 716-881-0406E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.trumold.com

UCO International (1987)Materials, tools, and lab equipment for production of custom orthotics. Comprehensive line of pre-molded foot orthosis and Quick-Sil silicone system.

Wheeling, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-541-4030Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 847-541-4144E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ucointernational.com

Vibram-Quabaug Corporation (1998)Quabaug Corporation is the U.S. manufacturer of Vibram soling products and Barge adhesives.

North Brookfield, MA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 508-867-7731Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 508-867-4600E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . http://www.vibram.us

Walkwell International Laboratories (2006)Boise, ID. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208-343-8907E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Wrymark, Inc. (1986)Pre-fabricated foot inserts; in-office orthotic fabrication system; Resource Labs, central fabrication facility; and direct patient care facilities in central United States.

St. Louis, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-969-3668Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314-991-5720E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . http://www.wrymark.com

Xsensible Shoes (2002)Patented stretchable leather, nubuck and fabric footwear in many styles. All stretchable materials are breathable and wick moisture away from the foot.

Hickory, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 828-328-4605Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 828-328-4842E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . http://www.xsensible.com

©2010 All rights reserved.

Performance is our heritage, commitment, and the force behind New Balance Total Fit. New Balance personally selects dealers with the proper expertise and an extensive selection to ensure you get the right shoe and right fit for your active lifestyle. Find a Procare dealer near you now: newbalance.com/shop/procare

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C U R R E N T PEDORTHICS...Q: After 30 years as a professional healthcare provider, I am having trouble understanding why pedorthists have had to jump through hoops for years, go years