Live Fitter School

2011 ATi Orthotic Fitters Course Descriptions

Day 1

Introduction

Welcome to ATi! This program explains the learning process and discusses lecture formats from anatomy, tool selection, product application and fitting techniques to patient education. Adult learning models and methods are also discussed with the focus on passing the certification exam. Student and lecturer expectations for the course are clearly delineated.

Scope of Practice Overview

This program discusses orthotic fitter scope of practice with specifics with respect to all classifications of prefabricated orthotic devices. Specific devices are discussed in terms of what is within the scope of orthotic fitters and which devices are done at the orthotist level.

Terminology and Techniques

This is a comprehensive overview of body planes and position terminology. Also included is an overview of lever arm principles and how that correlates to the support mechanisms of orthotics. Principles of pressure distribution are then taught and applied to every day situations.

Spinal Softgoods

This introduction to spinal supports includes spinal anatomy, physiology and pathology related to softgoods supports. Tools required for this level of supports are also reviewed. Product categories and fitting techniques are also taught. Sales floor ethics are also discussed during this program.

Spinal Orthotics

This program builds on the earlier softgoods anatomy program to discuss more advanced anatomy and pathology subjects as they relate to both men's and women's laced supports. Tools and fitting techniques for this level of garments are presented and demonstrated. A review of current documentation requirements and fitting room ethics are also discussed during this program.

Demonstration Fittings

Instructors will complete demonstration fittings of both spinal supports and rigid spinal orthotic devices, starting with patient intake and proceeding to product selection criteria, measurements, product preparation, product application, checking the fitting, patient education and follow-up.

Day 2

Orthopedic Structures

This course offers an introduction into the make-up and function of bones, ligaments, tendons and cartilage. Articulating surfaces are also discussed relative to their response to use, abuse and/or immobilization. A discussion of proprioception is also included in this program.

Lower Extremity Supports

Softgoods supports as they relate to anatomy, pathology and physiology of the lower extremities are presented. Product classification, selection and application are also presented and demonstrated.

Lower Extremity Orthotics

This course builds on the previous course to cover anatomy, pathology and physiology of the lower extremities relative to orthotic management. Selection and application techniques are also covered as they relate to hip, knee and ankle & foot orthoses.

Gait Preview and AFO Overview

This introductory course on gait covers current terminology and biomechanics of gait relative to criteria for selection of appropriate orthotic devices to manage gait deficits.

Demonstration Fittings

Instructors will complete demonstration fittings of lower extremity softgoods including knee wraps, patella stabilizers and ankle supports. Knee orthotic devices to be taught include custom fit functional de-rotation knee orthoses, OA knee orthoses, knee ROM braces and ROM Cam Walkers.

Day 3

Facility Management

This program covers HIPPA, Fitting room ethics, CMS update, Documentation and SOAP Notes overview, Universal Precautions, Quality Assurance and Loss Prevention.

Upper Extremity Orthotics

Anatomy, pathology and physiology of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand are covered along with product selection and application techniques.

Cervical Orthotics

This course deals with the anatomy, pathology and physiology of the cervical spine. It includes selection and application of soft collars and semi-rigid orthoses including those with thoracic extensions.

Venous Insufficiency

The anatomy and physiology of the venous system is taught along with pathologies generally appropriate for conservative treatment. Various stocking styles and alternative fitting techniques and fitting principles of medical stockings are discussed and demonstrated.

Lymphedema

The anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system is taught along with pathologies requiring conservative treatment. Five conservative management techniques are discussed as well as indications, treatment options and procedures for pneumatic pump management.

Demonstration Fittings

Fitting and customization techniques for both soft cervical and semi-rigid cervical orthotic devices are demonstrated along with precautions in dealing with cervical spine instabilities. Wrist and wrist/hand orthotic devices will also be fit to demonstrate techniques to maximize stability and optimize patient compliance.

Live fitting lab

This fitting lab day consists of students demonstrating their acquired skills to the instructional staff. Each student will be required to obtain measurements, select the correct size, customize (if necessary) and fit the device, check the fitting for fit, function and cosmesis, and instruct the "patient" on removal and re-application of the device, care and cleaning, wearing times, and any follow-up instructions. Once satisfied, the instructors will sign off on each fitting as it is completed. Required fittings include: soft cervical collar, semi-rigid cervical orthosis, wrist/hand orthosis, spinal soft goods, LSO, TLSO, knee softgoods device, functional knee orthosis, OA knee orthosis, lace-up ankle support, and ROM cam walker for a total of 10 fittings. Besides doing the fittings, each student must also be fit with above devices to appreciate how the devices feel when applied to them.

Course Schedule

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4