NovaCare Prosthetics & Orthotics

Today we salute the dedicated Select Medical veterans across our network of hospitals and outpatient centers. Thank you for your sacrifice and service. #VeteransDay

The NovaCare Prosthetic & Orthotic team is committed to staying at the forefront of the latest technology. One way we do that is with the OneStep app, which allows us to measure gait anywhere. After installing the app, patients can put their smartphones in their pockets and simply walk. The app works with the built-in sensor in smartphones and captures data, like orientation and acceleration, based on the movement and position of the phone. This allows the app to perform more than 30 gait parameters and mobility tests. The data is collected and automatically generates reports that promote interdisciplinary communication between the patient, physical therapist and physician. This is especially beneficial for patients with prostheses. Patients can use this app outside of a clinical setting, allowing their prosthetist to ensure that their prosthesis is performing correctly. This information can detect if a patient's gait has significantly changed and if they need to return to the center for a fitting or alignment change. Both clinicians and patients have seen first-hand the benefits of OneStep technology, allowing everyone to monitor successes and changes.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Our NovaCare Prosthetics & Orthotics team is proud to support breast cancer survivors on their journey with specialized post-mastectomy services. Mastectomy bras and breast forms play a crucial role in the recovery and well-being of breast cancer patients. Here are some key reasons why they are important: 1. Physical balance and posture: A properly fitted prosthesis and bra help maintain balance and posture. This is essential in preventing back and neck problems that can arise when a breast is removed. 2. Comfort and security: Specially-designed mastectomy bras have pockets that securely hold breast forms in place. This provides confidence and peace of mind that the prosthesis will stay in place throughout daily activities. 3. Emotional and psychological support: For many women, wearing a mastectomy bra and breast form helps restore a sense of normalcy and confidence after surgery. It can be an important part of the emotional healing process by improving body image. 4. Aesthetic appearance: These bras and forms are designed to look natural under clothing by matching the remaining breast shape. This can help women feel more like themselves and comfortable in their appearance. Center Manager Andrea Pavlik at our Sheboygan, WI office is a certified orthotist and certified mastectomy fitter. We're proud of the work Andrea does to help cancer survivors in their physical and emotional recovery.

NovaCare Prosthetics & Orthotics' Toledo office will be hosting a monthly walk/run clinic and support group. At these monthly events, we'll be showcasing some of the new technology available while also offering education on prosthetic maintenance, upgrades and more.

Our Roseville center was excited to host a tailgate patient appreciation day! We visited with patients and their families while getting excited about the Vikings versus Packers game. Everyone enjoyed lunch, games, vendor demonstrations, trial fittings and gait evaluations using the One Step app. Thank you to all who joined and made it a fun day.

One prosthesis isn't always enough. Robert Pohlman received his first body-powered prosthesis after he became a transradial amputee. He worked to become independent and returned to work. After several months, Robert grew frustrated when he started noticing restrictions with his body-powered device. He could only make bilateral activities in a small area directly in front of his body. Robert went back to his prosthetist and received an i-Limb® myoelectric prosthesis evaluation. The i-Limb® Access is a myoelectric hand that enables Robert to move each finger independently, allowing precise control. He can now position his thumb for different grip positions, too. While Robert still uses his body-powered prosthesis regularly, especially at work where his environment includes dust, water and outside forces, he has found many places where his myoelectric prosthesis is much more useful, like eating, driving and fishing. Having choices when it comes to an amputee's prosthesis can benefit them not only physically but psychologically.

NovaCare Prosthetics & Orthotics was proud to sponsor the Mercy Golf Classic at Dalhousie Golf Club this past weekend in Cape Girardeau, MO. The Mercy Health Foundation Southeast Annual Golf classic is an annual event that brings members of the community together to provide for the needs of Mercy Hospital Southeast patients. It was wonderful to support such a great foundation. Additionally, our team finished second in the tournament. Way to go!

September 11, 2001. Never Forget. #September11 #NeverForget

Today we celebrate all health care professionals who work tirelessly and dedicate themselves to the well-being of their patients. #LaborDay

Our patient service specialists are the backbone of our centers, the glue that holds everyone together to create an exceptional patient experience. From their roles as frontline support, expert coordinators, first-class communicators, relationship managers and administrative aides, we're so grateful for all they do. As we wrap up Patient Service Specialist Month, join us in thanking these vital professionals for their incredible work.