Written by: Karen A. Donohue, CPC, RFM

Q. What is the latest technology in prosthetics?

A. The O&P Center is certified in the Otto Bock C-Leg Microprocessor Knee, the Ossur Rheo Knee, the Myoelectric Upper Extremity Prosthesis, as well as the latest technology in prosthetic feet. In most cases, we allow our patients the opportunity to try different feet and knees to find the most comfortable fit. Trans metatarsal and partial foot amputees receive a custom prosthesis with a toe break for a more natural gait.

Q. Are there any new technological advancement for patients who wear leg braces?

A. Newer lightweight materials are being used to make braces, such as carbon fiber and titanium. For patients who require a full length leg brace, some companies now manufacture knee joints that can be programmed to lock during weight bearing and swing free before they take their next step. Many of the older braces were designed to be locked when the patient was not seated. An individual with this type of brace might walk with a “hitch” or limp. The new type of knee joints allows the patient to swing the affected leg unlocked until a heel strike locks it for stability.

An old technology is now being applied in a new way to help people with foot drop walk without a brace. A company in California has developed a device using “functional electrical stimulation” or FES to actively lift the forefoot during the swing phase so the toe does not drag on the ground. The patient dons a cuff with electrodes that are strategically placed around the calf of the affected leg to deliver a mild electrical impulse at the appropriate time. This stimulates the nerve that operates the muscle used to lift the foot. The Bioness L300 can be a viable alternative to wearing a brace for traumatic brain injury, stroke, or multiple sclerosis patients who have developed foot drop as a result of their injury.

Q. What makes the O&P Center successful?

A.

  • We are dedicated and committed to help you surpass your expectations.
    Mort Levy and his staff have over 40 years experience in the field.
  • We have a compassionate staff that treats our patients like family, instead of “just another patient”.
  • We do whatever it takes to insure your prosthetic is comfortable and functional.
  • We do not send out our products, as we have an on-site fabrication lab with ABC Certified Technicians.
  • We take care of the little details that can really make a difference.

Q. What are the benefits of diabetic shoes?

A. Footwear that is not correctly fitted will often cause serious problems for a diabetic patient. It is essential for diabetic patients to pay special attention to foot care and to be fitted by an expert for correct shoes. We will measure for length and can detect potential problems, which can prevent serious complications from occurring. Diabetic shoes fitted correctly will ensure healthy feet for a healthy and active lifestyle.

Q. Can a custom orthotic help my foot pain?

A. Yes. A custom orthotic fitted with an extra depth shoe will offload pressure areas, which cause discomfort and pain. Many arthritic sufferers and diabetic individuals find relief from properly constructed orthotic devices fitted with an extra depth shoe that matches their particular lifestyle.

Q. Do you participate with my insurance?

A. The O&P Center participates with Medicare, NJ Medicaid, Horizon, Aetna, United Healthcare, Oxford, Healthnet, Qualcare, Magnacare, Horizon Family Care, Amerihealth, Amerigroup, Americhoice, Veterans Administration, USFHP, Tricare and many other commercial carriers and union plans. We are also members of Homelink and POMAC.

Customer Testimonials

Five years ago, I became an amputee and thought my life was over. I was unsuccessful at walking with a prosthetic. I had been to two different Prosthetists and was afraid I would never walk on my own again. I asked for help from the staff at O & P. Within a few weeks, I was walking on my own again. I knew that working with Mort and the family at O&P was going to be good for me. I have never felt uncomfortable. They have always listened to my needs and gone above and beyond to meet them. Mort introduces me to the newest technology that works with me and I have never left their offices unhappy. Karen is a sweetheart. She always makes sure to ask about my family and makes the visit personal. I would not switch to anyone else for anything in the world. Thanks to O&P I am doing more than just functioning, I am living again.

~ Sincerely, MB

I have been going to Orthotic and Prosthetic for 12 years and during that time, my life has gone through many changes. When I first went to Mort, I was in college and wanted a prosthetic that did not look like prosthesis and he helped me find exactly what I needed. Next, I became a wife and mother. During this time, Mort made sure I was able to wear my pretty wedding shoes (with a 2.5 inch heel!) that I chose for that special day. He was very understanding about my pregnancy weight gain and the strains these conditions put on my residual limb. I wanted to be more than just an active mother, able to go for walks and take my kids to the beach, I also began working at a ballroom dance studio. I had kept my 2.5 inch heel height adjusted foot and wore it with my dance shoes, but I ran in to frequent problems using the prosthesis. It was not made for high activity. I needed constant adjustments from the staff of Orthotic and Prosthetic, who were generous with their help. They worked with my insurance company to make sure I was able to get the proper fittings and sleeves that I needed. Mort and Mario went above and beyond to make sure I had what was most comfortable for me. Now that my children are getting older and we are becoming active together, Mort and Mario have accommodated my needs again. My husband, my children, and I are all in Jiu Jitsu now and love being able to do something active as a family. My new prosthesis is a Flex Foot and looks amazing. When I am barefoot on the mats, my training partners often times, do not realize my foot is fake. This speaks volumes about the type of care I am receiving from O&P.

With the help and understanding I have received from Orthotic and Prosthetic, I have been able to lead an active and happy lifestyle without always thinking about how I am going to do it. My prosthetic leg does not hold me back from doing what I want to do and I have the Orthotic & Prosthetic staff to thank for that.

~ Tracy Ramp