We’re excited to introduce the newest addition to our clinical staff, Amira Mouad, CPO. She is a Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO) who has been practicing for 5 years. Amira will be helping Aeroflow provide the best possible educational resources for our Maternity Compression patients.
What is a typical day in the life of an Orthotist?
A device design is constructed, and the fabrication of the device takes place once insurance has been verified. The patient is seen for an in-person fitting of their custom device. Follow-ups are scheduled at predetermined intervals to evaluate efficacy, overall fit and function, and changes in medical history which may prompt a redesign.
What kinds of conditions do you treat?
As a CPO, I primarily work with patients who may have movement disorders, skeletal deformities, and limb loss. We typically provide stabilizing or corrective devices to support or replace extremities. Common conditions include plagiocephaly, craniosynostosis, scoliosis, low muscle tone, spasticity, foot drop, various levels of limb loss, and a myriad of other conditions.
How has the field changed since you started practicing?
In the last five years, I have witnessed incredible advancements in technology. Manufacturers are constantly updating the end-user interface, providing patients with more user-friendly applications and options for independent manipulation of settings.
As our field continues to grow alongside related healthcare fields, our documentation requirements are also becoming more stringent. Insurance companies are increasing their demands for appropriate documentation to justify medical necessity.Measuring outcomes and reporting these measures is also becoming more common practice. This is an incredibly important aspect of our field to aid in research grants and prove the efficacy of our treatments.
What are some of the most common misconceptions you hear about with Orthotics in general?
I think a lack of knowledge and general unawareness of the field drives many misconceptions. We are not merely fitting “off the shelf” devices, but rather performing thorough evaluations and aimed at addressing patients’ needs. We take a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach alongside other members of the healthcare team.Together we ensure the patient is receiving a device to meet their needs and proper access to other professionals who can aid in their treatment plan success.
What is your favorite part about working with patients?
My favorite part of working with patients is finding solutions to their problems. It may be providing a device to reduce pain or restore mobility, cosmetically improving a visual deformity, getting someone up and walking again, or simply discussing treatment modalities offered by allied health professionals that can help them meet their goals. My job is extremely gratifying!
