Hallux abductovalgus (HAV) surgical correction has inspired debate on techniques and postoperative protocols among foot and ankle surgeons protocols since its initial consideration for painful bunions. This debate continues in present day as surgical techniques and our understanding of HAV deformities advance. There are hundreds of described open procedures, most commonly including the distal chevron osteotomy, Scarf osteotomy, and first tarsometatarsal arthrodesis (Lapidus).

To move safely in this world, our body needs to understand where it is in the environment. Key among the players accomplishing this complex task is the special sense (some would call it the 6th sense) of proprioception, which is the awareness of joint position. Knowing what position the joint is in allows the body to determine how to move. Proprioception is joined by kinesthesia, the knowledge of joint movement, and neuromuscular control, the efferent response to an afferent input.

Footwear has an essential role including protection of the feet, overall performance, foot health and potentially, supporting normal development of the foot. In addition to these physical aspects which may influence choice of footwear design, there are psychological influences on what a person chooses to wear. The concept of footwear ‘comfort’ spans physical and psychological perceptions of comfort in adults. However, there is little understanding of what influences children’s footwear choices, how children perceive footwear comfort, or the language used to describe footwear experiences.

By 2050, the global demand for orthotic and prosthetic services is expected to double. Unfortunately, the orthotic/prosthetic workforce is not well placed to meet this growing demand. Strengthening the regulation of orthotist/prosthetists will be key to meeting future workforce demands, however little is known about the extent of orthotist/prosthetist regulation nor the mechanisms through which regulation could best be strengthened. Fortunately, a number of allied health professions have international-level regulatory support that may serve as a model to strengthen regulation of the orthotic/prosthetic profession.

 

 

The CFPM can post a job posting to reach the chiropody/podiatry community. This service is FREE for all CFPM members, and $150 for non-members (for a 30 day posting).