Latrobe NCPO News

NCPO Invited to Teach Ischial Containment in Japan

The National Centre for Prosthetics and Orthotics was invited to deliver an ischial containment unit to undergraduate prosthetics and orthotics students at Kobe College of Medical Welfare in Japan. Dr. Michael Dillon created and delivered a thirteen day curriculum involving lectures, tutorials, demonstrations and practical classes in which students developed a theoretical understanding of ischial containment socket design as well as the clinical skills necessary to begin working in this area after graduation.
In addition to teaching basic clinical skills such as assessment, casting and fitting, the program was aimed at challenging students to think critically about what prosthetists do; a skill well embedded in Australian prosthetics and orthotics education, but quite a novel educational expereince for Japanese undergraduates. As an illustrative example, lectures critiqued the work by people like Ivan Long and John Sabolich which became the catalyst for the ischial containment socket design. Some tutorial sessions focused on differences in coronal plane alignment principles which have become synonymous with either the quadrilateral and ischial containment socket design, to determine whether these differing approaches affect amputee gait.
The program was well received by both staff and students of Kobe College and also received acclaim from members of the profession and professional bodies. Students enjoyed the different teaching approaches, particularly the tutorials, which are not commonly utilised in Japanese education.
The National Centre for Prosthetic and Orthotics sincerely thank Kobe College of Medical Welfare for the invitation to teach in Japan as well as the staff and volunteers who assisted in making the program such a success.
If you would like to find out more about the ischial containment course, please contact Michael Dillon on 03 9479 5889 or via email: michael.dillon@latrobe.edu.au.

Posted March 2006

Michael Dillon advises a Kobe student

The staff and students of Kobe College who participated in the Ischial Containment course

NCPO Writing Skills Matrix Applauded

Late last year, the NCPO was invited to present the innovative NCPO Writing Skills Matrix at the inaugural Staff Development Seminar for the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS). Ms Mara Pavlidis, FHS Language & Academic Skills Advisor, extended the invitation because she considered the NCPO to be leading the Faculty in the teaching of writing skills, and identified the matrix as unique in health science education to date. It was an honour for the NCPO to receive the invitation. Staff had put much time and effort into developing expertise in writing tuition, and appreciated their work being recognised in this manner.
Ms Margaret Hodge, NCPO Lecturer and Curriculum Coordinator, had acted as team leader during development of the matrix, and made the presentation on behalf of her colleagues. She explained the rationale for the matrix creation, summarised the development process implemented over three years, presented the latest matrix with examples, and discussed how the matrix had influenced writing tuition within the B.P&O curriculum. Seminar participants then engaged in discussion of the matrix and of health science student writing skills education in a broader sense.
The NCPO Writing Skills Matrix encourages skill development on a number of levels through the 3.5 year undergraduate degree and the 4 year honours degree. Skills are defined and are introduced systematically, beginning with foundation tasks and working up to advanced or difficult skills. Skill standard increases throughout the four years. Matrix forms provide students with clear guidelines about expectations in written work, and offer detailed feedback about achievements. Tutorials focussing on key writing skills are included in all years.
With these developments, NCPO staff members are confident that P&O graduates attain a writing ability appropriate for an undergraduate degree, which will allow them to contribute to the professional literature or workplace reports once they join the profession.
Academic staff from schools and departments within the FHS, and from the University Language Centre, attended the seminar. Participants commended the NCPO on the writing matrix and rated the seminar very highly. They valued learning about the model underpinning the development of writing ability, and the clear articulation of writing skills for each year level provided by the matrix. “It was lovely for the matrix to be so well received, particularly by the professional linguists in the audience,” Ms. Hodge said.
Since the seminar, academics from various schools and departments have sought access to the writing matrix for use in their programs, and one has worked to create a similar system to address physiology practical exercises. Further information about the NCPO Writing Skills Matrix can be gained from Margaret Hodge, email: M.Hodge@latrobe.edu.au or phone: 03 9479 5778.

Posted March 2006

A Flying Visit to Japan

The Japan Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (JOPA) invited NCPO lecturer Les Barnes to provide a seminar on Transtibial Socket Designs and Problem Solving Methods in February 2006. During the 6 day trip to Japan, he visited 2 P&O Companies, did some sightseeing, gave a lecture to P&O students at Kobe College and presented the seminar (lecture & demonstration) to Japanese P&O professionals and students.
Originally planned for 60 delegates, 150 students and practicing P&O professionals turned up to attend the five hour lecture/demonstration session. To meet such a huge demand, seminar organisers set up 4 video cameras and screens so that all the attendees could view the proceedings. With the room having a seating capacity of 120, there were many delegates who had to stand throughout the presentations.
The seminar covered the theory of transtibial socket designs, demonstrations of 3 different transtibial hand casts on a transtibial amputee and a transtibial socket problem solving session.
A JOPA dinner after the seminar was attended by leading Japanese P&O professionals including Heihachi Inagaki (JOPA President) and Dr Seishi Sawamura (past president of ISPO international).
A highlight of the trip included visiting two Japanese P&O Companies. The Kawamura Rehabilitation Company is based in Osaka and employs 250 P&Os. It provides a massive range of custom and off-the-shelf rehab equipment. It has many regional offices throughout Japan. The generous Kawamura Company welcome included hoisting the Australian flag outside, displaying a notice of the “Honoured Les Barnes Visit” in the foyer, a three hour comprehensive guided tour by owner Kei Kawamura, and lunch in the staff canteen. The huge 3 story head office covered about one acre.
A smaller company in Kyoto called Ohi Manufacturing employed about 10 P&O staff and this facility was smaller and more crowded. After lunch in a local restaurant, Les assisted treating a transtibial amputee who was having suspension problems.
Les and the NCPO would like to thank the JOPA organisers and especially the wonderful hosting of Mr. Mitsuhiko Uchida. Les found the trip “to be very interesting and an enlightening experience.”

Posted March 2006

Some of the delegates at the Transtibial Socket Design and Problem Solving Seminar in Yokahama.
Les Barnes and Mitsuhiko Uchida are in the centre. (Les on the right)

NCPO Attends Regional Educators Meeting

A photo of delegates attending the Prosthetic and Orthotic Strategic Schools Meeting. NCPO head Rod Cooper is on the back row, third from right.

The NCPO was privileged to attend the Prosthetic and Orthotic Strategic Schools Meeting held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia during September. The meeting featured delegates from educational institutions in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, Cambodia, Australia, Hong Kong and Malaysia as well as representatives from the International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics and the Nippon Foundation.
The meeting was hosted by the Cambodian School of Prosthetics and Orthotics and delegates were funded by the Japanese Nippon Foundation, a Non Government Organisation that plays a major role in financing P&O education and development in the Asian region.
“The meeting was a fantastic chance to meet with other education providers in the region and gain a deeper understanding of each others programs” commented NCPO delegate Mr Rod Cooper. “We compared our programs and educational objectives as well as national clinical practices. I believe that this, and future meetings of the group, should lead to further positive collaboration in education in our region”.
The next meeting of this group is scheduled for November 2006 to be held in Sri Lanka.

Posted Dec 2005

NCPO at the Sydney ISPO 2005 ASM

he ISPO Australia Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) in Sydney. Staff members Les Barnes, Tim Bach, Rod Cooper, Michael Dillon, Margaret Hodge and Wes Pryor attended the meeting, as well as 20 NCPO undergraduate and postgraduate students. Nine free papers and one poster were presented by NCPO staff and/or students, one NCPO paper received a prize, and NCPO staff chaired some sessions of the meeting.
The George Carter New Investigator Prize was awarded to NCPO Honours student Renée Downie, for her paper: “Development of an instrument to explore the behavioural role of the Australian prosthetist in clinical practice”. The paper was co-authored by Renée’s honours supervisors NCPO Lecturer Margaret Hodge and La Trobe University School of Public Health Professor Greg Murphy.
Dr Richard Baker was the keynote speaker at the ASM. Dr Baker is an expert in clinical gait analysis, manages the gait laboratory at the Royal Children’s Hospital and is leader of a Gait Research Centre, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute in Melbourne. He provided a fascinating keynote address about interpretation and application of gait data in clinical practice. Four NCPO staff co-presented the Gait workshop with Dr Baker, La Trobe University Biomechanist David Orr and University of Sydney Biomechanist Damien O’Meara.
Three NCPO staff members were heavily involved in ISPO Australia business activities during the meeting. Margaret Hodge was the President of ISPO Australia, Wes Pryor is the Secretary and Michael Dillon is Chair of the Science and Education Committee. As the executive is made up of people from most Australian states and territories it usually meets via teleconferencing. The ASM provided an opportunity for face-to-face meetings of the executive and sub-committees. NCPO staff also participated in AOPA events during the meeting.
In addition to working at the ASM, NCPO staff welcomed the chance to discuss issues with various speakers and delegates and to develop valuable links with the profession.

Posted Dec 2005

NCPO Honours student Renée Downie is presented with her prize by ISPO Australia Chairman Margaret Hodge

2005 Student Research Symposium

The Annual Student Research Symposium was held on October 31, 2005. Current students presented the results of their honours research and Independent Study Projects in the symposium. Five honours projects and five third year projects were presented.
Again, about half of the third year students completed a series of Clinical Challenges delivered in a Web-assisted format instead of undertaking a research or development project. Only students who completed a research or development project presented their work during the symposium.
A number of prosthetists and orthotists from local facilities attended at least part of the Symposium. We appreciate the contribution these professionals made to the discussion during question time and during breaks in proceedings. We also appreciate the support of P&O facilities in making time available for their staff to attend the Symposium.
A closing reception was generously sponsored by Reis Orthopaedic and Surgical Services. We gratefully acknowledge Helmuth and Sue Reis for their support of the social aspect of our Symposium over the past six years.
A list of the topics, investigators and supervisors is available on the NCPO web site (www.latrobe.edu.au/ncpo/docs/seminar.html). Anyone who is interested in additional information about any of the topics should contact the NCPO.
The Symposium has established itself as a day of excellent P&O research. The next Student Research Symposium will be held on Monday, October 30, 2006. Prosthetists, orthotists and professionals in related areas are welcome to attend.

Posted Dec 2005

NCPO Student wins Faculty Medal

Ms Aileen Ibuki, a P&O honours graduate in 2004 was awarded the David Myers University Medal at the University Prizes Ceremony on August 5th. The D M Myers University Medal is awarded annually to the outstanding undergraduate student graduating in each Faculty (usually an honours graduate). The medallion was donated by the first Vice-Chancellor of La Trobe University, Dr David Myers, CMG.
Aileen completed the honours year of her Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics degree with a thesis on orthotic treatment of muscle spasticity aimed at helping patients with such conditions as cerebral palsy, stroke or head injury. She used electrical stimulation of nerves to determine whether changes in orthosis shape or materials in particular areas of the ankle and foot could affect the excitability of their reflexes. Her work challenged a number of current theories of spasticity management. On the basis of her honours research, she received an Australian Postgraduate Award and is currently continuing with research towards her doctorate.

Posted Sep 2005

Left to right: Rod Cooper, Head of the NCPO, Aileen Ibuki and Stephen Duckett, Dean of Health Sciences

NCPO Study Tour to Thailand and Cambodia

The NCPO facilitated an international study tour, giving its students an insider’s view of the global context of prosthetics and orthotics practice. A group of students recently returned from Thailand and Cambodia where they visited a number of P&O teaching institutions and facilities.
In Bangkok, the group was hosted by Mahidol University at their main campus and then the teaching hospital where the 3rd year of the P&O program is located. NCPO and Mahidol students were able to meet and discuss their courses. They were then shown the teaching labs by Mr. Jim Lavranos, NCPO graduate, who teaches the 3rd year program at Mahidol.
The group then flew to Siem Riep in Cambodia, and toured the Angkor Wat complex in searing heat and monsoonal rain. Then, they headed for Battambang with the intention of visiting the ICRC rehabilitation centre. A 5 hour boat ride, though, quickly became 13 gruelling hours and the visit was delayed. However, the next day, they were hosted by the centre’s director, Mr. Joël Nininger. The ICRC takes an active role in documenting important aetiological and demographic data, and the group was able to learn of the unique characteristics of P&O practice in the Battambang area, which was one of the most heavily mined regions in Cambodia. Mr. Nininger was able to offer some personal insights into P&O work from the viewpoint of an expatriate with many years experience in Cambodia.
After Battambang, they headed for Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, an uneventful 5 hour bus ride away. The group was moved by a visit to the killing fields, which was the site of unspeakable atrocities during the reign of the Khmer Rouge. The group then toured the Cambodian School of Prosthetics and Orthotics with their peers at that school, before meeting the students who will participate in the NCPO’s upgrade program beginning in January next year. This gave the cohort of upgrade students an opportunity to meet some of their new colleagues, and learn more about teaching and learning in Australia. Wes Pryor, NCPO International Lecturer, then introduced the upgrade students to the NCPOs emerging distance learning environment.
The study tour has added a new dimension to teaching and learning at the NCPO, and recognises the differences and similarities in P&O practice in different countries in our region. It is hoped that the study tour will be repeated in future years.

Posted Sep 2005

NCPO and Mahidol P&O staff and students students at Mahidol’s teaching hospital in Bangkok. The group were greeted by Director of the program, Dr. Kamontip (left, front), and Mr. Jim Lavranos, (4th from left, main group.) The NCPO students were Oliver Keen (3rd year, 2nd from left main group), Shanelle Whitson (5th from left), Elizabeth Murrell (2nd year, 10th from left, 2nd row), Ella Nicholson (3rd year, 6th from right, at front), Andrew Jolly (1st year, 3rd from right, front)

NCPO Head Invited to Teach in Japan

During the mid semester break the Head of the NCPO, Mr. Rod Cooper was invited to Kobe College of Medical Welfare, Japan to teach their second year P&O students. Mr. Cooper delivered a series of lectures and practical classes on Orthotic Fracture Management, and Foot Orthotic management. “It was interesting to see how different orthotic practices are in Japan, especially in the area of foot orthotic assessment and provision” reported Mr. Cooper.
When discussing his teaching of the Japanese students Mr. Cooper commented “It was challenging to try and teach Japanese P&O students about these areas as our NCPO teaching style involves constantly challenging the student’s knowledge and asking them to justify their practices based upon this knowledge. This initially seemed to be quite confronting to the students.” “It was pleasing to note that towards the end of the classes, students began to ask more questions, verbalise their knowledge and challenge some of their previous thinking in this area.” he concluded.
In addition to his teaching at Kobe College, Mr. Cooper also presented seminars to professional groups on Australian P&O education and foot orthosis provision. The visit further strengthened the relationship between Kobe College of Medical Welfare and La Trobe University. It is anticipated that more collaboration with other La Trobe University disciplines such as Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy could be developed in the near future.

Posted Sep 2005

NCPO Head Rod Cooper advises a Japanese P & O student during a fracture management class

New Amputee Group Visits the NCPO

In April the NCPO was visited by representatives from Limbs 4 Life, a group developed to provide peer support and advocacy for amputees. The representatives toured the NCPO facility and were provided with information about the undergraduate education program by NCPO staff.
Limbs 4 Life Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to assist amputees to make the journey through rehabilitation to independent living by providing information and support. Losing a limb can be a frightening and challenging experience for amputees and their families, and Limbs 4 Life hopes to ease the burden of this experience by sharing knowledge and information and providing access to trained Peer Support / Hospital Visitor Workers.
Limbs 4 Life founder, Ms. Melissa Noonan, reported that Limbs 4 Life was incorporated in October 2004, after much research and development. “Its aim is to provide assistance to amputees and their primary care givers via our Hospital Visitors Peer Support Program and website (www.limbs4life.com)” she said. “The team at Limbs 4 Life is dedicated to enhance the lives of amputees and assist with their transition back into independent community living”. Melissa experienced an above the knee amputation in 2003. “After I lost my leg, I was concerned that I would never regain my pre-accident independence and be reliant on the assistance of others for the rest of my life. Over time I learned that this wouldn’t be the case, however I wish that I had been connected to an organisation or fellow amputee who could have told me that a lot earlier in my recovery”, For more information contact Melissa on 0402 036 735 or email: info@limbs4life.com

Posted June 2005

Melissa Noonan

Melissa Noonan, Founder of Limbs 4 Life during her visit to the NCPO

NCPO Continues to Develop Web Based Teaching

The NCPO recently implemented a web based Learning Management System (LMS) in which all P&O units have individual websites. While these are primarily used for staff contacts, assignment submissions and lecture notes, they are increasingly used for distance-based lectures and other teaching material.
Most P&O professionals now understand the power of the web for professional communication and information-sharing. At the beginning of 1st semester, the NCPO implemented a new website, which replaced the P&O student pages that many alumni may remember. The new site is a central forum for all enrolled P&O students and staff, and features course related documentation, an email facility, chat room, as well as a number of discussion forums.
Recently, the website was renamed ‘the Panacea’ after a student competition to name the site. The name reflects the students’ perception that for all problems, the ‘panacea’ probably has the answer.The inclusion of this new course-wide site adds a communication medium between students across the whole course. It has been used to arrange social events, plan a study tour, and disseminate writing help sheets, and acts as a general resource for students.

A screenshot of our new student hub

As of the end of Semester 1, 240 posts had been made to the discussion forum. Some students had used the site as often as 500 times, demonstrating that students are finding considerable value in the site and its forums.

Posted June 2005

NCPO and QUT in Collaborative Research Project

Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Medical Engineering student Sarah Sydney visited the NCPO in March. She came to complete a pilot study measuring axial motion of the femoral remnant inside transfemoral suction sockets using ultrasound.
The aim of the research was to explore the feasibility of producing a system capable of measuring how much the femoral remnant is moving axially inside transfemoral suction sockets during walking. Hopefully, this tool will allow clinicians to evaluate the quality of the socket suspension against some baseline obtained from well fitting suction sockets.
The concept was first coined by Professor John Evans (QUT) and later involved Dr Michael Dillon during his time as a PhD student at QUT. This research collaboration has allowed Sarah to capitalise on expertise and services available at both QUT and the NCPO.
During the pilot study, an ultrasound probe was attached to the bottom of a check socket (Right) to track the position of the end of the femur in weight bearing and non-weight bearing conditions. The technique was tested on two volunteers. Problems were encountered when the ultrasound probe failed to pick up a signal from the end of the femur, despite promising laboratory results.
Sarah is working on refining the ultrasound equipment design with the hope of conducting further clinical trials later in the year. She is also investigating how the shape of the femoral end changes following amputation as this is likely to affect how the ultrasound signal is reflected of the bone.
Sarah is extremely grateful to the staff and volunteers at the NCPO for their help and participation in this project. If you would like further information about the project, please contact Michael Dillon.
Email: michael.dillon@latrobe.edu.au

Ultrasound device

Sagittal plane view of a transfemoral suction socket supported within an Otto Bock Haberman frame. The ultrasound transducer is held in position at the bottom of the socket using a custom made clamp system.

Posted June 2005

NCPO Graduates First Japanese Upgrade Student

A graduation event to acknowledge the first graduate of the NCPO’s upgrade program, Miss Akie Ono, was held by the NCPO in January.
Miss Ono, a 2003 graduate of the prosthetics and orthotics course at Kobe College of Medical and Welfare, Japan, and licensed Japanese practitioner, completed the upgrade course at the NCPO during 2004. She becomes the first Japanese graduate to have received the La Trobe Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics Degree.
Present at the ceremony with NCPO staff and students were Kobe College directors Ms Machiko Saito and Mr Mitsuhiko Uchida and honorary president of the College Dr Seishi Sawamura.
In a speech at the ceremony Miss Ono acknowledged the support of her fellow students and the assistance of NCPO staff and her home stay family during her study. Miss Ono is now applying for positions at Australian facilities.
The NCPO currently has three other Japanese graduates undertaking the upgrade course and has accepted enrolments from another four applicants to undertake the course in 2005.

Posted March 2005

Kobe graduate Akie Ono

Miss Ono’s graduation presentation: Left to Right: Mr Mitsuhiko Uchida, Ms Machiko Saito, Miss Akie Ono, Mr. Rod Cooper and Dr Seishi Sawamura.

NCPO Distance Education Developments

The NCPO is continuing to develop teaching materials in a diverse range of formats to both on campus and distance based students. We can offer a variety of delivery options including customised continuing education and upgrade courses to suit the needs of the recipients. A large number of units are also available to take as stand alone subjects via distance education.

Topics include:

Introduction to P & O clinical practice
Patient Evaluation
Orthotic Management of Fractures
Independent Study Project

Specialised lectures on prosthetic and orthotic related topics, technical guides and practical teaching resources are also available. For further information please have a look at our new distance education web page:

www.latrobe.edu.au/ncpo/docs/disted.html, or follow the links from our home page:

www.latrobe.edu.au/ncpo.

Direct enquiries can be made to Wes Pryor on (03) 9479 5729 OR Email: w.pryor@latrobe.edu.au

Posted March 2005

Wes Pryor Visits India and Cambodia

International Aid Lecurer Wes Pryor recently returned from a visit to Northern India and Cambodia. In India the NCPO was invited to discuss continuing education for prosthetics and orthotics. Wes met with a number of agencies to consider this challenge. “ P&O education in India is very strong.” Said Mr. Pryor. “P&O practitioners and schools are required to register with the Rehabilitation Council of India, and must undertake fairly stringent accreditation processes.” Although local training in P & O is very strong, some agencies have recognised that international collaborations and increased training, especially in research in P&O, may be highly valuable for Indian P&O professionals. “The challenge is how to best integrate the skills of Indian and Australian P&O training facilities.” The NCPO and Indian professionals will continue to explore this challenge in coming months. While in Cambodia, Mr. Pryor met with the Cambodian School of Prosthetics and Orthotics, to discuss the upgrade course to be taken by a number of CSPO graduates. “The course, which begins in January 2006, is taking shape, and we met to finalise the curriculum and address a few challenges”. While in Phnom Penh, Mr. Pryor met a number of the students who will begin the course in January. “The students are from four countries with a diverse range of professional experiences. As graduates of the CSPO program, they are ISPO Cat. II accredited, and in addition must have a number of years professional experience. Their inclusion in our course will provide enormous benefits for other students. They are a very friendly and professional group of students, and will be very welcome at the NCPO and La Trobe University next year.”

Posted march 2005

NCPO Volunteer Patients Recognised at Ceremony.

On Thursday 28th of October, a BBQ was held for all the volunteer patients who have participated in the NCPO teaching programs. At that BBQ, certificates were presented by Professor Stephen Duckett to those patients who had provided five or ten years voluntary service, giving their time to act as subjects for the NCPO teaching program. In a short speech, Professor Duckett praised the work of the many volunteers and acknowledged that without them, the NCPO would not be able to provide the high level of clinically based learning that our students enjoy. All of the attending 24 certificate recipients were delighted with acknowledgement of their valuable contribution to the NCPO teaching program. A few of the volunteers have been participating in the teaching program since before the NCPO moved from the Carlton Campus in 1997. They were pleased to have the opportunity to meet other volunteers who they would normally not see. Many of the volunteers were surprised by the number and range of disabilities that participated in our program. There were 8 volunteers from the lower limb orthotics program and 16 from the lower limb prosthetics teaching program who enjoyed the opportunity to share experiences with people who had different disabilities. NCPO students from all years and all teaching staff enjoyed the pleasant conversation and relaxed atmosphere of the lunch time BBQ. There were a total of 42 volunteer patients who were eligible for either a five year of ten year certificate and those volunteers who were not able to attend, have been sent their certificates in the mail.
The NCPO is always interested in hearing from people who use prosthetic or orthotic devices and are interested in becoming a volunteer. Please call Barbara at the HS Clinic on 9479 5831

Professor Duckett presents an award

La Trobe’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning and Teaching) and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Professor Stephen Duckett, presents a certificate to volunteer Bruno Moretti while staff, students and other volunteers look on.

Posted December 2004

Japanese Students Visit NCPO
A group of 23 prosthetic and orthotic students from Kobe College of Medical Welfare Japan were recently hosted by the NCPO. The students spent one week at the NCPO attending classes with NCPO students, presenting research papers and participating in educational tutorials to gain a greater understanding of P&O education in Australia. The group also attended the Austin Health Prosthetics and Orthotics department to investigate the service delivery model and facilities of an Australian clinic. This annual visit by the Japanese students also provides our domestic students with an opportunity to learn more about prosthetic and orthotic practices in another country and to compare their educational experiences.
Posted Dec 2004	Kobe College of Medical Welfare students provided some post BBQ entertainment during their visit to the NCPO

2005 Student Research Symposium
The Annual Student Research Symposium was held on November 1, 2004. In the symposium, students presented the results of their honours research and Independent Study Projects. The symposium program was smaller than in previous years because of the changes to the third year subject, Independent Study Project. This year, about half of the third year students completed a series of Clinical Challenges delivered in a Web-assisted format. Only students who completed a research or development project presented their work during the symposium. A number of prosthetists and orthotists from local facilities attended at least part of the Symposium. We appreciate the contribution these professionals made to the discussion during question time and during breaks in proceedings. We also appreciate the support of P&O facilities in making time available for their staff to attend the Symposium. A closing reception at the conclusion of the Symposium was sponsored by Reis Orthopaedic and Surgical Services. We gratefully acknowledge Helmuth and Sue Reis for their support of the social aspect of our Symposium over the past five years. A list of the topics, investigators and supervisors is available on the NCPO web page: www.latrobe.edu.au/ncpo/seminar.html. Anyone who is interested in additional information about any of the topics should contact the NCPO. The Symposium has established itself as a day of excellent P&O research. The next Student Research Symposium will be held on Monday, October 31, 2005. Prosthetists, orthotists and professionals in related areas are welcome to attend.
Posted December 2004

NCPO Students Receive Academic Awards

Seven NCPO students were recently presented with awards in recognition of their 2003 academic achievement. The awards were presented at the La Trobe University Annual Presentation of Awards and Prizes ceremony. Recipients of awards were:
Emily Graham – Australian Orthopaedic Association Prize; awarded to the most outstanding second year student.
Evanthios Tamanas – Australian Orthotic and Prosthetic Association Inc. (Victorian Section) Prize; awarded to the most outstanding first year student.
Wesley Pryor – E.H. Armstrong Prize for services to Lower Limb Amputees; awarded to recognize contributions to amputees through a research project.
Lee Brentnall – Hans Georg Nader Prize; awarded for the highest overall result in honours year.
Rachel Imison – International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) Prize; awarded to the most outstanding third year student.
Maree Heritage and Renee Downie – joint recipients – Robert Gardner Memorial Prize; awarded for best result in the third year subject independent study project.
The university gratefully acknowledges the support of all the prize donors and would like to especially thank Mr. Kevin Harrison (representing Otto Bock) and Mr. Gavin Burchall (representing AOPA) for their attendance at the ceremony. Congratulations to these students upon their outstanding achievements.

Posted September 2004

Kevin Harrison and Lee Brentnall

Mr. Kevin Harrison, left, representing Otto Bock Healthcare, and Ms. Lee Brentnall at the NCPO Awards Ceremony

NCPO teaching in Japan

In June the Head of the NCPO, Mr. Rod Cooper was invited to Kobe College of Medical Welfare, Japan to present lectures and practical teaching to P & O students.
Mr. Cooper delivered a series of lectures on Orthotic Fracture Management, an area which had not previously been taught in detail at the Kobe School.
“ It was interesting to see how different orthotic practices are in this area in Japan” reported Mr. Cooper. “In many ways it would seem that Japanese practices are very conservative and that other medical professionals dictate the orthotic management process”.
When discussing his teaching of the Japanese students Mr. Cooper commented “It was challenging to try and teach Japanese P & O students about developments in orthotic fracture treatment practices as their thinking seems confined to how they should prepare themselves to undertake their role within the Japanese system.” “It was pleasing to note that towards the end of the three week class students began to ask more questions and challenge some of their previous teaching in this area.”
Practical teaching involved manufacture of various fracture orthoses using both Australian and Japanese methods. “I was most impressed with the technical In addition to his teaching at Kobe College Mr. Cooper also presented seminars to professional groups on Australian P & O education, Orthotic fracture management and foot orthosis provision.

Posted September 2004

Rod Cooper and japanese student

NCPO head Rod Cooper advises a Japanese P & O student at Kobe College of Medical Welfare.

This visit further strengthened the relationship between Kobe College of Medical Welfare and La Trobe University. It is anticipated that more collaboration with other areas of the University such as Physiotherapy and Orthoptics will be developed in the near future.abilities of the Japanese students” commented Mr. Cooper. “Their finishing and attention to detail is definitely superior to that of our NCPO students and would rival that of experienced practitioners.”

In addition to his teaching at Kobe College Mr. Cooper also presented seminars to professional groups on Australian P & O education, Orthotic fracture management and foot orthosis provision.
This visit further strengthened the relationship between Kobe College of Medical Welfare and La Trobe University. It is anticipated that more collaboration with other areas of the University such as Physiotherapy and Orthoptics will be developed in the near future.

NCPO International Aid Lectureship

Earlier this year, La Trobe University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Osborne, agreed to fund an International Aid Lectureship in response to the continuing need for ongoing P&O education in non-industrialised countries. Mr. Wesley Pryor, a Ph.D. candidate and sessional Lecturer at the NCPO was seconded to the role on a fractional basis.
“ The NCPO has already established itself as a leading provider of continuing education through distance-mode upgrades for diploma holders and our increasing involvement with international students” Wes said. “This lectureship allows us to consolidate and build on those skills and make them accessible to students in regions where the need for quality P&O services is very high.”
Since his appointment in April, Wes has been collaborating with the Cambodian School of Prosthetics on a project to upgrade a cohort of their graduates to BPO qualifications. The NCPO will work towards a solution that will allow graduates to assume leadership in their country and to provide quality care into the future. The scope of this lectureship is not limited to Cambodia. “Ongoing education in regions with underdeveloped P&O services has traditionally been considered less important than providing clinical services, and that’s probably fair enough. We are still working on a few different models, and we hope to reduce the financial and geographical limitations to quality P&O training. This should serve to reprioritise education and result in better services, provided by local staff, where they are needed most.”

Posted June 2004

Wes Pryor

New International Aid lecturer Wes Pryor

Premier’s Recognition for Cerebral Palsy Research

Roslyn Boyd, a PhD student at the NCPO, has won a Commendation in the 2004 Premier’s Award for Medical Research. The award is based on doctoral thesis research and was established to reward excellence in Victoria’s young researchers. Ms. Boyd’s thesis examined the effects of botulinum toxin, commonly known as botox, in children with cerebral palsy. After injection into a muscle, botox causes partial paralysis and reduces the spasticity common in children with CP. Ms Boyd’s research demonstrated that botox, in combination with intensive upper limb training, improved upper limb function more than training alone. Results of the study showed that botox affected more than the muscle itself. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI) suggested that the reduced spasticity after botox injection facilitated brain reorganisation and learning. Because of this, the beneficial effects of treatment may persist well after the effect of the drug itself wears off. The research was carried out at La Trobe University, The Murdoch Children’s Research Institute at Royal Children’s Hospital and the Brain Imaging Research Institute at the Austin Hospital. Associate Professor Tim Bach of the NCPO and Professor Meg Morris of the School of Physiotherapy supervised the thesis. The award was made by the Premier, Mr. Steve Bracks, during a ceremony at Government House attended by Governor John Landy and many leaders of the Victorian medical research community. The award consists of a certificate and an $8,000 cash prize. One winner and three commendees are named each year.

Posted June 2004

Steve Bracks and Roslyn Boyd

Victorian Premier Steve Bracks presenting the award to Roslyn Boyd.

(Photo: Mark Farelly, © Department of Premier and Cabinet, Government of Victoria. Used with permission.)

POSS Makes Donation to Vietnamese Rehab Hospital

Lee Brentnall presents cheque

Left to right: Professor Cao Minh Chau, Professor Nguyen Xuan Nghien, and Lee Brentnall from POSS

Posted March 2004

2003 was a busy year for POSS (Prosthetics and Orthotics Student Society). One of the highlights of POSS activities for the year would have to be our fundraising efforts led by Lee Brental. The money was raised for the Bach Mai Paediatrics Hospital and the work of the Vietnam Veterans of America foundation at the hospital. A bands night held at the Queensbury Hotel in Carlton was the main fundraising event, showcasing many talented students. The money that the bands night raised was given a helping hand from the POSS piggy bank.
The presentation was made during the ispo2003 ASM in November 2003. Prosthetic and orthotic students were pleased to present the money to Professor Cao Minh Chau, the director of the Prosthetic and Orthotic Unit, and Professor Nguyen Xuan Nghien, head of the Rehabilitation Department. The Professors were extremely grateful for the contribution, which will go toward improving the Prosthetic and Orthotic services provided by the hospital.

2003 ISPO Workshop

2003 ispo workshop participants

The 2003 ISPO Workshop participants

Posted March 2004

The November 2003 Annual Conference of Australian ISPO Pre-conference Workshop was attended by more than 40 delegates who took the opportunity to meet the legendary character and father of prosthetic biomechanics, Professor Charles Radcliffe.
The workshop was divided into two sections. The first session (in the morning) was devoted to a detailed analysis and comparison of Four Bar Linkage (4BL) systems where a computer program developed by Professor Radfcliffe was used to compare linkage length and alignment of 6 common knee units. These were related to the swing of the limb(the centrode) and the Hosmer Spectrum 4BL knee (designed by Professor Radcliffe) was presented. From his computer program he was able to analyse in detail the 4BL knees. The morning session finished up with a demonstration of two volunteer patients who showed the use of the Hosmer Spectrum Knee.
The second session was a practical session for clinicians where the Hosmer Spectrum knee was re-aligned, swing control adjusted and a clinical analysis of the gait was discussed. Trials of the 4BL prostheses were carried out over rough terrain, slopes and stairs to demonstrate the control achieved by the volunteer patients.
All participants felt that the workshop was valuable and interesting.

NCPO Hosts ISPO Australia Conference

The 2003 Annual Scientific Meeting of the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics, Australian National Member Society, was held from 27-29th November. The meeting was hosted by the NCPO and held at La Trobe University.
The event was a tremendous success and was attended by 160 local, interstate and international delegates and featured a combination of podium presentations, tele presentations workshops, poster presentations and trade exhibits.
The keynote speaker was Professor Charles Radcliffe, Professor Emeritus, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California Berkley who delivered his key address on “Biomechanics of Lower Extremity Socket Fitting”. Other major presentation themes included Pediatrics, P&O education and Outreach, Professional Development, and Stance Phase Orthoses as well as an instructional workshop on fitting and alignment of a Four-Bar knee.
A further highlight of the meeting was the conference banquet held at Yering Station, where delegates enjoyed fine jazz, food and wine, and welcomed the chance to socialise and discuss the content of the presentations.
The George Carter New Investigator Prize was presented to NCPO Honours student Monique van den Boom for her paper “The Effect of Metatarsal Pad Height on Peak Pressure and Comfort in Asymptomatic Subjects”. The paper was co-authored by Rod Cooper and Margaret Hodge.
The award for the best poster presentation was given to Katherine Harding and Leigh Taylor for their poster titled “Development of a Rehabilitation Service in the Republic of the Marshall Islands”.
The recipients of the Best Short Paper Presentation were Anneke Deutsch and David Butler for their poster titled “New Polycentric Knee Joints for a Van Ness Rotationplasty Prosthesis”.
Conference convenor Dr Tim Bach and his organizing committee are to be congratulated upon hosting a world class meeting.

Posted Jan 04

ispo 2003 banquet

ISPO ASM delegates and guests enjoyed the beautiful view, superb wine and delicious food at Yering Station, venue of the conference banquet.

ispo2003 Workshop

ISPO ASM 4 bar knee workshop with Professor Radcliffe

NCPO Signs Agreement with Japanese Education Group

The NCPO’s internationally recognised expertise in prosthetics and orthotics education was further endorsed when it signed an agreement to upgrade the qualifications of Japanese students. The agreement established a formal link with the prominent Jikei Group, which owns 27 Japanese tertiary institutions.
La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Osborne and Jikei’s Chairman Dr. Kunihiko Ukifune signed the agreement. Also in attendance were other senior members from both institutions, with the NCPO represented by NCPO Head Mr. Rod Cooper and the ISPO ANMS represented by chairman Ms. Margaret Hodge.
Under the agreement, the NCPO will upgrade the qualifications of graduates from the Prosthetics and Orthotics College of the Kobe College of Medical Welfare (a major Jikei tertiary institution) to the level of the La Trobe University Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics degree. Currently, these students undertake three years of study in Japan to obtain a College Certificate qualification in P&O. The upgrade program will allow students to have their Certificate study directly attributed towards La Trobe’s B.P&O degree. To obtain the upgrade, Japanese students will be required to successfully complete a combination of NCPO prosthetics and orthotics subjects totalling 130 credit points.
Mr Rod Cooper said the new program had enormous potential benefits for La Trobe University. These included increased international recognition of La Trobe’s P&O program, exposure of local students to international P&O practices and the financial contribution of these additional fee paying students. Four students from Kobe College wish to start the program in 2004. The long-term goal is to enrol four to six students per annum.
Further information: Mr. Rod Cooper +61 3 9479 5862 or La Trobe University Public Affairs Office +61 39479 2316.

Posted Sep 03

Jikei Chairman & LTU Vice Chancellor

Jikei Chairman Dr. Kunihiko Ukifune (left) and La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Osborne shake hands to symbolize the agreement.

AOPA Extends Contract for Joint Position

The NCPO is pleased to announce that, following an initial six month trial period, the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association Inc (AOPA) has agreed to continue the AOPA / NCPO Lectureship for a further 12 months. The position will be funded at 0.4 EFT by the AOPA with Kaisha Gurry fulfilling the role of Executive Officer for the AOPA, and at 0.4 EFT by the NCPO with Kaisha filling the roles of Lecturer and Clinical Education Coordinator.
A furnished office and associated equipment is provided by the NCPO, allowing a full time contact point for all AOPA business as well as access to the University’s resources to assist the AOPA to meet the administrative and strategic goals of the Association. The establishment of this position has proven advantageous for both organisations, allowing flexible time allocations and a more immediate response to issues in both roles.
It is hoped that the Lectureship position will continue to strengthen relationships between the NCPO and the AOPA.
With the addition of the AOPA office to the NCPO, the NCPO continues to maintain a close working relationship with relevant associations and organisations within the P&O industry. The NCPO also provides office space and equipment to the ISPO Australia. Through ongoing support of our peak professional bodies, it is hoped that the NCPO can continue to contribute to raising the awareness and increasing the effectiveness of theses professional bodies.

Posted Sep 03

Kaish Gurry

AOPA Executive
Officer Kaisha Gurry

Current NCPO staff representation
AOPA National Council:
Executive Officer: Kaisha Gurry
NCPO representative: Rod Cooper
Elected Member: Michael Gurry
ISPO Australia
Chairman: Margaret Hodge
Secretary: Wes Pryor
Chair, Scientific & Education Committee: Tim Bach
ISPO Australia 2003 Convening Committee
Convenor: Tim Bach
Committee members:
Les Barnes
Michael Dillon
Wes Pryor
Kaisha Gurry
Steve Hockey
Rita van Breda

NCPO Staffing Update

The NCPO welcomes Dr. Michael Dillon as our new lecturer in prosthetics and orthotics. Michael is a La Trobe honours graduate who completed his doctoral studies at the University of Queensland. In addition to his research, Michael has lectured in the prosthetics and orthotics program at Hong Kong University and has worked as a clinical prosthetist. The NCPO looks forward to Michael’s contribution towards our educational delivery and research activity. We are pleased to welcome back Ms. Kaisha Gurry who is returning to the NCPO after spending the past year on maternity leave. Kaisha will resume her role as Clinical Education coordinator. Michael replaces Mr. Tim Jarrott and Kaisha replaces Ms. Danielle Bonett, who both completed their contracts at the NCPO and returned to clinical service provision at the start of this year. The NCPO wishes to thank both Danielle and Tim for the contributions that they have made to the NCPO in their time with us. Mr. Paul Stoney from Cybernetic designs and Mr. Anthony Francis from Network Orthotic Services compliment the NCPO teaching team in their role as sessional consultants this semester. Paul will be assisting in teaching the Transfemoral Prosthetics program and Anthony will assist in delivering the Lower Limb Orthotics program.

Posted March 2003

New NCPO Staff member Dr. Michael Dillon

Representative of Japanese Tertiary Education Syndicate Visits NCPO

The NCPO was pleased to host a visit from Mr. Paul Lee last month. Mr. Lee, a representative of the Jikei group which owns twenty-seven tertiary institutions including the Prosthetics and Orthotics College in Kobe, toured the NCPO clinic, International Programs Office and Campus accommodation venues. In addition to meeting with University staff and students, Mr. Lee took video footage and collected information to pass on to prospective NCPO students from the Kobe school. The visit was a tremendous success with Mr. Lee reporting that he was extremely impressed with the University’s facilities, commitment towards international student education and the NCPO’s P&O program. Three students from Mr. Lee’s College are expected to enroll at the NCPO next year.

Posted march 2003

Mr. Paul Lee with friends at Healsville Sanctuary

NCPO Attracts New Research Grants

Staff of the NCPO have attracted research funding for a number of projects commencing in 2003.
Ms Margaret Hodge and Dr Tim Bach received $10,000 from the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Committee for a study of plantar tissue thickness and stiffness in Rheumatoid Arthritis. In this study, the investigators will use a Tissue Ultrasound Palpation System (TUPS), developed at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, to measure mechanical characteristics of the plantar tissues in healthy and RA subjects. This information is important in understanding the biomechanics of foot orthoses used in the management of RA.
Dr Tim Bach, Mr Rod Cooper and Ms Margaret Hodge received $10,000, again from the Faculty of Health Sciences, for a study of the relationship between foot orthosis contour and plantar pressure. In this study of normal feet, the Novel Emed insole pressure measurement system will be used to study the effects of metatarsal pad thickness and shape on pressure under the metatarsal heads. The investigators hope to provide clinicians with information that will reduce the time-consuming trial-and-error approach commonly required in clinics to select an appropriate metatarsal pad. Ms Monique van den Boom is undertaking this project as her honours thesis.
Dr Tim Bach, in conjunction with Mr Richard Law of Law Comfort Pty. Ltd., received a $3,850 La Trobe University Industry Collaborative Grant for a study of compression socks for transtibial amputees. The study will involve the collection of anthropometric information of transtibial stumps in the Australian amputee population, to be used for sizing purposes. The study also requires mechanical testing of compression stockings to obtain information about the relationship between pressure and stump size, so that a stocking which provides optimal pressure for stump volume control can be designed. Ms Lee Brentnall is undertaking the project as her Honours thesis.

Posted march 2003

AOPA Ground Reaction AFO Course

In late October the NCPO hosted the Victorian Section AOPA workshop on the articulating laminated GRAFO. This workshop was well attended, with 20 participants from mainly Victoria and South Australia. The Victorian AOPA members were subsidized by the AOPA Vic. Section and there was generous sponsorship from OPC and Advanced Composites Pty Ltd. The course material was prepared and delivered by the St. Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne Prosthetic and Orthotic Department. The course combined both theory and practice and proved to be an enjoyable educational experience for participants. Being the first of such courses planned for the future, it was a good learning experience for all involved in the preparation and delivery of the course. Course review material collected and collated from participants has given us valuable feedback and ideas to ensure a high standard of future course delivery. In the coming years the NCPO intends to increase its commitment to continuing education for practicing clinicians. In 2003, we intend to hold a number of these courses along with industry partners. If you or your facility would like to become involved in delivering a course, or if you have ideas for course topics we would welcome your input. Course topics currently being considered include:

Advanced fracture management techniques
Spinal orthotic management
Grant application, ethics and research publication procedures
Stance phase control knee units

Please contact Mr. Michael Gurry, NCPO Clinical Services and Continuing Education Coordinator on phone; (03) 9479 5037 or email: M.Gurry@latrobe.edu.au.

Aopa grafo course participants

Posted December 2002

2002 Student Research Symposium

Once again, the Student Research Symposium held on October 28 was excellent. In the symposium, honours students and third year students present the results of their honours research and Independent Study Projects. As in recent years, the symposium continues to rival the quality of presentations and the level of P&O science at many national and international meetings. A large number of prosthetists and orthotists from Melbourne and interstate facilities attended at least part of the Symposium. We appreciate the contribution these professionals made to the discussion during question time and during breaks in proceedings. We also appreciate the support of P&O facilities in making time available for their staff to attend the Symposium. Lunch and a closing reception at the conclusion of the Symposium were sponsored by Reis Orthopaedic and Surgical Services. We gratefully acknowledge Helmuth and Sue Reis for their support of the social aspect of our Symposium over the past three years.The Symposium has established itself as a day of excellent P&O research. The next Student Research Symposium will be held on October 27, 2003. Prosthetists, orthotists and professionals in related areas are welcome to attend. Mark your diaries now and contact the NCPO closer to the event if you wish to have more detailed information.

Click here for a detailed programme

A copy of the proceedings is available: Please email Tim Bach if you want more information

Posted December 2002

NCPO at ABC4: Australasian Biomechanics Conference

The fourth biennial meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Biomechanics was held at La Trobe University from November 28-30. The meeting was attended by 120 delegates mainly from Australia and New Zealand. Highlights of the conference included symposia on Balance and Falls in the Elderly, Clinical Gait Analysis and Muscle and Movement Efficiency. “In some respects, the meeting was a rehearsal for ISPO 2003, the ISPO Australia Annual Scientific Meeting which will be held at La Trobe next November” said meeting convenor, Dr Tim Bach. “We had a chance to run a trade exhibit, test the audio-visual services, try out parallel scientific sessions and poster exhibits, trial the on-campus accommodation and check out the University catering service. We’re confident that we can run a first-class meeting for a larger audience at our ASM next November.”

Go to the ABC4 Website

NCPO students win awards

A number of prizes were available to presenters. The prize for the best student poster was won by Ben Kettle, currently completing his honours thesis, for a poster co-authored by Margaret Hodge and Rod Cooper on orthotic management of pressure in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Katrina McGrath, another honours student, and co-authors Les Barnes and Tim Bach, won a high commendation for their poster on foot roll-over shapes in transtibial amputees. Former honours student, Anna Murphy, won best student podium presentation award for a paper based on her PhD research about the biomechanics of partial foot amputation. The student prizes include a registration at the World Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics to be held in Dunedin, NZ, in June 2003.

Posted December 2002

Michael Gurry appointed as NCPO Clinician
The NCPO is pleased to announce that Mr. Michael Gurry has been appointed to the recently advertised NCPO Clinician position allowing the NCPO to provide full time clinical services to patients in our region. Michael was selected above a high calibre field of applicants and has extensive experience in orthotic service provision and clinical management. In addition to his BPO, Michael has completed studies in Marketing and Commercial Law. Michael assumes the title and responsibilities of NCPO Clinic Manager and will manage the majority of the increasing NCPO patient load. He will also be responsible for clinic promotion and will be involved in developing NCPO continuing education programs. To contact Michael phone: (03) 9479 5037 or email: M.Gurry@latrobe.edu.au
Posted September 2002

NCPO at 2002 Prosthetic & Orthotic Educators Meeting
The inaugural Prosthetic and Orthotic Educators Meeting (POEM) was held during August at Jönköping University in Sweden. Structured as a workshop, the meeting was designed to encourage P&O educators and academics from around the world to discuss some of the major issues facing University-based P&O education. NCPO Head, Mr. Rod Cooper, was pleased to represent the NCPO as a POEM delegate, and Lecturer, Ms Margaret Hodge, was an active member of the POEM convening committee. The meeting hosted an international field of around 40 delegates from 13 different countries, representing more than 20 P&O educational institutions. Keynote addresses and discussion focused on topics such as: Professional identity The balance between technical, clinical and theoretical components within P&O curriculum Educational modes of delivery Base grade or entry-level curriculum requirements Post graduate Education Collaboration in P&O education Social and cultural activities, sponsored by the County Governor and the Municipal Council, encouraged delegates to get to know each other sufficiently for lively debate to occur during the workshops. At times the discussions were very intense as central issues, such as P&O core competencies, academic workloads and the value of research, were passionately debated. Although many countries were represented, all seemed to face similar challenges and are striving towards the achievement of similar goals. It appeared that the NCPO is a world leader, particularly in research and higher degree productivity, in graduate output per staff member, and in offering the flexibility of part-time enrolments. A summary of the POEM discussions will be published during October. Most delegates were extremely open in providing information about their courses and were keen to learn about the NCPO activities. It was very useful for the NCPO staff to meet other P&O academics and develop links with them to facilitate future collaboration. Indeed, the highlight of the meeting was the tremendous feeling of goodwill and willingness for collaborative efforts in P&O education. Gratitude must be extended to Jönköping University for hosting the POEM, to the sponsors for supporting the meeting and to the convenors who worked to put the POEM together. Further information can be gained from Margaret Hodge, phone: (03) 9479 5778, email: M.Hodge@latrobe.edu.au.
	People interested in P&O University-based education travelled from 13 countries to attend the 2002 Prosthetic & Orthotic Educators Meeting at Jönköping University, Sweden. Most POEM delegates are pictured here. The NCPO Head, Mr. Rod Coooper is in the front row, fourth from the right. NCPO Lecturer Ms Margaret Hodge is in the front row on the right.
Posted September 2002

Nobel Laureate to visit La Trobe University

In 1997, the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) was co-winner of the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts to promote an international ban on anti-personnel mines. Mr Tun Channareth, a Cambodian landmine survivor and ambassador for the ICBL received the Prize on behalf of the ICBL. He will visit La Trobe University as a guest of the National Centre for Prosthetics and Orthotics on May 7 and will talk about his personal experience, his work in rehabilitating Cambodian landmine survivors and about ongoing ICBL activities.

The seminar will be held in the Undercroft Lecture Theatre on Monday May 7 commencing at 12:00 noon.

The picture at right shows Mr Tun Channareth of Cambodia. Landmine survivor, Ambassador for the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. (photo: Markku Sarubin. 2000)
(Posted April 2001)

2000 Academic Award Winners

The NCPO awards a number of prizes to recognise outstanding academic achievements by students. The winners of 2000 academic awards will receive their prizes at the University Prizes Ceremony to be held on May 31, 2001.

The Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association Inc. (Victoria Section) Prize for the most outstanding first year student was awarded to Mr.Phillip McLennan.

The Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA) Prize for the most outstanding second year student was awarded to Ms. Natalie Armstrong.

The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) Prize for the most outstanding third year student was awarded to Ms. Rebecca North.

The Robert Gardner Memorial Prize donated by the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA) and Harcourt Australia for the best result in PO3IS2 Independent Study Project was awarded jointly to Mr. Marcus Cassar and Mr. Richard Courtney for their project entitled " The Effects on Lumbar Spine Biomechanics of a Pelvic Load Carriage Belt".

The winner of the Hans Georg Nader Prize donated by Otto Bock Austral/Asia for the best Honours thesis was Ms. Tracy Robinson for her project titled "The Effectiveness of Ground Reaction Ankle-Foot Orthoses in the Management of Genu Recurvatum in people with the Late Effects of Polio".

The winner of the inaugural E. H. Armstrong Prize for services to Lower Limb Amputees was Dr. Stefania Fatone for her doctoral thesis titled "The Biomechanics and Prosthetic Management of Children with Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency (PFFD)".

The NCPO and the University gratefully acknowledge the donors of the prizes. These awards are an important way of recognising promoting academic excellence.

Congratulations to the prize winners!
(Posted April 2001)

Restructured Faculty of Health Sciences
The Faculty of Health Sciences at La Trobe University has recently been restructured to create three Divisions. They are the Divisions of Allied Health, Nursing and Health Studies. This new structure was created to provide a more functional management arrangement and to better reflect the external health environment where the majority of graduates will be employed. It offers a greater opportunity to develop multi-disciplinary skills through integrated programs of study which reflect and lead current practice. Opportunities for gains in efficiency through sharing of information and resources will now be more readily accessible given the number of shared challenges. The Division of Allied Health officially came into being on April 2nd 2007. The Division integrates the Schools of Human Communication Sciences, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Social Work and Social Policy with the Departments of Clinical Vision Services, Podiatry and the NCPO. The Division now has an effective full-time student allocation of almost 2000 students and 115 staff. The Division of Allied Health is headed by the Associate Dean, Professor Karen Dodd. A management team comprising Heads of all Schools and Departments provides advice and assistance to Professor Dodd in her leadership of the Division. This structural change moves the NCPO from a department within the school of Human Biosciences to the Division of Allied Health. This structural change, along with the proposed curriculum changes, bring the NCPO into an equal partnership with each of the other Allied Health clinical schools. Posted June 2007

The old structure of the faculty (left) compared to the new structure (right)

Japanese P&O Students Visit NCPO
The NCPO was privileged to host 22 P&O students from Kobe College of Medical Welfare in Japan from 3-5th of June, 2002. The students were in Australia on an educational visit to learn about Australian P&O provision and education. “We chose the NCPO following a review of its curriculum, and because of it’s international reputation for high quality P&O education,” said Mr. Mitsuhiko Uchida, Director of the Kobe P&O program who accompanied the students on their tour. “You have not disappointed us.” During the visit, the Japanese students were given Icex casting and CADCAM demonstrations, attended orthotic and prosthetic classes with NCPO students and visited RehabTech and Caulfield General Medical Centre. A highlight of the visit was the ‘Research and Education’ session, in which students and staff from both facilities exchanged ideas on P&O service provision, education and research. A barbeque in the courtyard provided opportunity for Australian and Japanese students to interract informally. The NCPO and Kobe College hope to build the relationship between the two institutions to facilitate curriculum, student and staff exchanges.
Posted July 2002

Funding Review for Prosthetic and Orthotic Education
The continued squeeze on funding for tertiary education has placed more pressure on the Faculty of Health Sciences and on the NCPO to reduce costs. The NCPO is developing a plan to address this issue. The plan will involve some changes to teaching and assessment practices, new and repackaged course offerings in undergraduate, post-graduate and continuing education, increased clinic activity and increased support from the profession and the industry. An overriding principle in the plan will be that the quality of the current course and the quality of graduates will be maintained. Over the next few months, the NCPO will meet with profession and industry representatives to seek their advice and support for proposed developments.
Posted Feb 2002

New Head of the NCPO
Mr Rod Cooper, NCPO Lecturer, has been appointed as the new Head of the NCPO and will take office in January, 2002. Rod replaces Dr. Tim Bach, who will continue on a half-time basis as an NCPO staff member and will be responsible for honours and postgraduate supervision and research leadership.
Posted Feb 2002

2001 Student Research Symposium

Nobel Laureate to visit La Trobe University

2000 Academic Award Winners