Tag: Prosthetics

CAF Weekend

Hanger Clinic Patients and Clinicians Participate in the Challenged Athletes Foundation Community Weekend

Hanger Clinic patients, families, and clinicians recently participated in the annual Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) Community Weekend. This event provides attendees an opportunity to participate in adaptive sports, meet new friends and mentors, and have fun. We followed Hanger Clinic teams at this event to learn more about them and their experience during CAF Community Weekend.

CAF Annual Grant Program

CAF’s flagship grant program aims to remove the barriers that exist between adaptive athletes and their pursuit of sport and fitness. Individuals with permanent physical disabilities are eligible to apply for the sports expense grant or equipment grant.* Deadline is November 4, 2022.

Learn More

challenged athletes foundation

Meet the Teams

Hanger Clinic Team

Bruce Mezan
Swim/Triathlon

Bruce Mezan uses a below-knee prosthesis after being hit by a drunk driver on his motorcycle. Bruce now speaks to high school students and works with Mothers Against Drunk Driving and news organizations to highlight the dangers of driving under the influence. He shares his story and insists that tragedies stemming from drunken driving are preventable.

Bruce decided to participate in the CAF Community Challenge for the simple reason that he believed the event could improve his life, and he could possibly have a positive impact on others.

“The athletes all called on their strength to test their abilities and push their limits. This fortitude was a very beautiful thing to witness. I was also affected deeply by the running clinic. I can’t help but think about how encouraging it was for the children to engage with so many others in similar circumstances. It was fun to watch and it was clear that they were uplifted. I suddenly realized that being part of this huge community of support was important to me.”

Jason Malvar

Jason Malvar
Bike

After losing his left leg below-the-knee in a motorcycle accident, Jason Malvar has been working hard to recover. With his positive mindset and determined attitude, Jason is getting back to doing what he loves – running, biking, and staying active with his family.

“I wanted to participate in CAF to do amazing things with other inspiring athletes. I also wanted to face and overcome my own challenges, and support other challenged athletes by showing them hard things are possible to overcome. I myself had prior doubts and have endured difficulties along the way, but never allowed myself to give up. As a challenged athlete, you don’t have to take on this journey alone. The CAF Community Weekend is truly indicative of that.”

Cameron Clapp

Cameron Clapp
Run

After being struck by a train and instantly losing both legs above-the-knee and his right arm at the shoulder, Cameron Clapp was told by doctors he would never walk again. He proved everyone wrong by walking independently with two prosthetic legs just five months after the accident. Now, Cameron travels the country sharing his incredible survival story with fellow amputees, teens/adults, and members of the medical community. He is passionate about adaptive sports and supporting fellow athletes.

“Supporting the Community Challenge Weekend and San Diego Triathlon Challenge was a great honor and privilege. I was extremely excited to participate in the Community Challenge this year because it was my 20th year attending, and I participated in the fully adaptive Hanger Clinic relay team where I had the opportunity to run the 10 mile for my first time at the CAF triathlon.

My most powerful takeaways at this event were the incredible human connections experienced by the Challenged Athletes coming together through sports, great camaraderie, teamwork, and pushing myself to the limits to finish strong and achieve the 10 mile run.”

Hanger Clinic Team Escondido

Kyle Ryan

Kyle Ryan
Swim

Dr. Kyle Ryan is a board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego and an assistant clinical professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine. He is passionate about providing compassionate care for patients with diverse rehabilitation needs, with an emphasis on cerebral palsy and spasticity management.

Growing up in the triathlon community, Kyle has always been inspired by the work that CAF does and was excited about the chance to participate with the Hanger team in this amazing event. Now, as a physiatrist, he cares for adults with physical impairments and supports the importance of movement for individuals of all abilities.

“It was such a pleasure to meet the entire team representing Hanger at the CAF Community Challenge. The energy at the event was so infectious – huge smiles on so many faces, and pure camaraderie palpable everywhere. It’s amazing to see the hard work put in by so many people coming together in such a positive way. I can’t wait to participate again!”

Steve Tregoning

Steve Tregoning, CPO
Bike

Steve Tregoning, CPO is an ABC-certified prosthetist/orthotist and Area Clinic Manager for Hanger Clinic in downtown Escondido and the North San Diego region. He is dedicated to providing patients with innovative orthotic and prosthetic technologies and superior care to help them regain their independence and pursue the activities they love.

“I have participated in the CAF triathlon for over 20 years. Despite working with challenged athletes on a daily basis as a prosthetist/orthotist, I am still blown away by the event and thankful for the opportunity to participate. I would like to think that I have made a difference in my patient’s lives through my work. In reality, I feel like I am the blessed one and can’t imagine spending the day with anyone else. I look forward to 20 more years in the field.”

Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson
Run

Jennifer Johnson is a registered nurse who has a passion for showing up, meeting people where they are, and being of service.

“I was excited to participate in the CAF Community Challenge to support a special bilateral above-knee amputee I love. As a participant in the event, I experienced so much positive energy and liveliness from participants. My two big takeaways were to smile and always keep going.”

Hanger Clinic Team Brady

Karen Thomas

Karen Thomas
Run

Karen Thomas is the West Zone Supply Chain Management Leader for Hanger and a volunteer worship team vocalist. Her love for music started before she could walk listening to her father play the piano. From the time she was in elementary school, she was playing the flute and singing in choirs. She began singing with Inside Out, later joined the Roni Lee Group, and has worked with several celebrity artists.

She served in the Navy as a Radioman, was one of the first women to serve aboard an aircraft carrier, and was in the 2nd wave of females to service on any ship, which at that time was the USS Lexington, otherwise known as “The Blue Ghost” from WWII. Karen believes in the power of sports to empower lives, heal individuals, and unite the world, especially in these times of crisis and conflict.

“As a CAF supporter, we create opportunities for challenged athletes to be involved with adaptive sports, fitness, community connections, and inclusion in society’s health and wellness activities. Having the opportunity to participate with challenged individuals competing in any sport they desire brings joy to my heart.”

Lee Cardon

Lee Cardon, CPO
Bike

Lee Cardon, CPO is an ABC-certified prosthetist/orthotist for Hanger Clinic in Rancho Mirage, California. He uses a below-knee prosthesis after being hit by a drunk driver while riding a motorcycle. He always enjoyed riding a bike as a kid, but started cycling regularly 20 years ago to get more exercise and become healthier. Lee attended his first SDTC Triathlon Challenge at that time, and was inspired to participate in triathlons and compete in criteriums and road races, some of them riding alongside Olympic gold medalists. He went on to finish a half Ironman Triathlon and even finish 2nd place in his age group at his local Sprint Triathlon.

“I have always looked forward to coming back to the CAF Community Challenge since first participating nearly 20 years ago. It inspired me to get into triathlons and other competitive cycling events. As an athlete and a prosthetist, I am amazed to see what these athletes can accomplish with the right equipment, prosthetics, and sheer determination.”

Challenged Athletes Foundation

Millions of individuals living with physical challenges do not have access to the critical adaptive sports equipment and programming needed to be active. Since 1994, the Challenged Athletes Foundation has been committed to creating opportunities so individuals with physical challenges can live full, healthy, and active lives.

Request a Free Evaluation

If you or someone you love are looking for personalized prosthetic care following amputation, get in touch with a board-certified prosthetist at a Hanger Clinic near you.

Find A Clinic

*Restrictions may apply. See the CAF Annual Grant Program full eligibility requirements.

OASIS 2 Study Summary

OASIS 2: Mobility Differences with Specific Prosthetic Feet Across Procedure Codes

Journal

Journal of Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies Engineering
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Authors

Taavy A. Miller, PhD1,2, James H. Campbell, PhD1, Dwiesha L. England, MS 1, Phillip M. Stevens, MEd1,3, Shane R. Wurdeman, PhD1

  1. Hanger Institute for Clinical Research and Education, Austin, TX, USA
  2. School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
  3. School Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

Background

The prosthetic foot is a unique tool provided to patients as part of their overall prosthetic rehabilitation following limb loss. There is a category of prosthetic foot in particular, coded as L5987, which was predicted to enable higher functionality by integrating vertical shock absorption. Originally, this functionality was achieved through additional mechanical components attached to the foot, adding both build height and weight. However, improvements in geometries and materials science allowed these feet to evolve to the point that they could potentially provide similar functional benefit without the added weight and height of the visible vertical shock absorption units.

Recently, the organization that assigns prosthetic components their categorical codes (PDAC) re-classified several L5987 feet to an L5981 code due to the lack of an obvious, visible additional vertical shock absorption unit. This was done without consideration for the performance or observed function of the feet. Rather, the decision was informed by the presence of distinct mechanical features.

The purpose of Outcomes ASsessment and DISsemination (OASIS) 2 was to compare patient-reported functional mobility across a range of prosthetic feet using real-world clinical outcomes data. It is the second study in the OASIS series by the Hanger Institute for Clinical Research and Education comparing the effectiveness of prosthetic components across patient groups to impact and enhance patient outcomes.

Learn more about OASIS 1, which compared outcomes from four common microprocessor knee models.

Objective

To investigate real-world evidence on several highly utilized prosthetic feet that were re-coded from L5987 to L5981 due to a lack of a visual distinct vertical loading mechanism.

Design (n=526)

A retrospective, observational review of patient outcomes data was completed to assess mobility across foot categories and between different prosthetic feet coded as L5987 or L5981.

Patient Inclusion Criteria:

  • Data collected from January 2016-December 2021
  • 18 years or older
  • Major lower limb amputation (i.e. transtibial, knee disarticulation, or transfemoral)
  • Currently using a prosthesis
  • Completed mobility outcomes after confirmed delivery of a new prosthetic foot

Patient Demographics:

  • Average age = 52.5
  • 83% Male
  • 78% Transibital amputation
  • 37.4% Vascular disease / diabetes
  • 27% Trauma
  • 35.6% Cancer, congenital, and / or not reported
  • K3 Ambulators = 523

Patient Foot-Type Groups:

  • Sustained-87: Prosthetic feet which underwent recent PDAC review and remained coded as L5987 base code
  • Modified: Prosthetic feet which were previously considered within the field with the L5987 base code but as of 1 January 2021 are PDAC recommended for L5981
  • Not Reviewed: Prosthetic feet which have not yet been submitted for PDAC review
  • Original-81 (Control Group): Prosthetic feet that have previously been reviewed by PDAC and assigned code L5981

Research Short: An Overview of OASIS 2

Hear the perspective of two OASIS 2 study authors, Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP, and Shane Wurdeman, PhD, CP, FAAOP(D), as they provide insight and clarity into the objectives and findings of OASIS 2.

Results

The results showed L5987 feet had greater functional mobility than the Original-81 feet. There was no significant difference in functional mobility for individuals with prosthetic feet that had their coding modified to L5981, compared to those that retained the L5987 designation.

FIGURE 1

Category Comparison

Post hoc analysis showed the Sustained 87 category to be significantly greater than the Original 81 category (P<.0001). Notably, there were no statistical differences between the Sustained 87 and Modified categories (p=.55) or between the Modified and Not Reviewed (p=.62).

FIGURE 2

Mobility Comparison

Specific make and model of feet within each category performed fairly consistently although there were exceptions.

  • The Fillauer All Pro within the Modified category performed similarly to the feet within the Sustained 87 category and seemed to overall increase the average performance of the feet grouped in the Modified category.
  • The Ossur Vari Flex LP, although there was large variability, seems to be performing better than the other feet within the Original 81 category.

Conclusion

  • The study of 526 individuals with a lower limb prosthesis showed that L5987-coded feet are associated with improved mobility compared to the L5981 category, a confirmation of results reported previously in a purely dysvascular/diabetic population of 738 individuals with amputation in the Institute’s Mobility Analysis of Amputees (MAAT) 5 study.
  • The real-world clinical outcomes data evaluated in this study emphasizes functional performance over visible characteristics as a pathway toward higher performance for the end user.
  • Having the ability to objectively measure, analyze, and disseminate real-world functional outcomes enables clinical providers to make informed, unbiased decisions about patient care, resulting in enhanced outcomes.

Meet the OASIS 2 Authors

Featured Clinician image

James H. Campbell, PhD

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF CLINICAL OFFICER, PRESIDENT HANGER VENTURES

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Featured Clinician image

Dwiesha England, MSEng

Research Associate

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Featured Clinician image

Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP

Vice President of Clinical Affairs

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Shane Wurdeman, PhD, CP, FAAOP(D)

Vice President of Scientific Affairs

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More Published Research

The OASIS series is part of a vast collection of landmark research studies already published, or in various stages of publication by the Hanger Institute for Clinical Research and Education, in collaboration with leading researchers, clinical, and academic institutions.

Learn More

MAAT VII: Normative Mobility Values for Lower Limb Prosthesis Users of Varying Age, Etiology, and Amputation Level

Journal

American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
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Authors

Dwiesha L. England, MSEng1, Taavy A. Miller, PhD1,2, Phillip M. Stevens, MEd1,3, James H. Campbell, PhD1, Shane R. Wurdeman, PhD1,4

  1. Department of Clinical and Scientific Affairs, Hanger Clinic, Austin, TX
  2. Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC
  3. School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
  4. Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, NE

Background

As the seventh and final study in the Mobility Analysis of Amputees (MAAT) series, MAAT VII: Normative Mobility Values for Lower Limb Prosthesis Users of Varying Age, Etiology, and Amputation Level analyzed data from nearly 12,000 lower limb prosthesis users, who were grouped by age, amputation etiology, and above vs. below-knee amputation. MAAT VII established normative values for each group, ultimately expanding known benchmarks from two etiologies across four age groups, to four etiologies (cancer, congenital, trauma, and diabetes/dysvascular) across seven age groups. The awareness of differences across amputation etiologies extending across the lifespan of ages can assist the goal-setting process as part of prosthetic rehabilitation. Additionally, refined normative values provide the ability to benchmark new and innovative changes in clinical practice.

The MAAT series, which has been published regularly by the Hanger Institute for Clinical Research and Education since 2017, represents the largest national analyses of mobility among lower limb prosthetic users and clarifies the concept of prosthetic mobility as it relates to considerations such as satisfaction, quality of life, comorbid health conditions, and prosthetic component choices.

Objective

The objective of this study was to establish normative values for individuals with lower limb difference/amputation due to cancer or congenital etiologies, and expand those available for etiologies associated with trauma and diabetes/dysvascular.

Design

A retrospective cross-sectional observational analysis was performed on mobility outcomes completed in the United States.

Patient Inclusion Criteria:

  • Data collected from April 2016-May 2019
  • Adults aged 18 years or older
  • Unilateral lower limb amputation (above-knee or below-knee) with prior experience using a prosthesis
  • Reported etiology as either cancer, trauma, congenital, or diabetic/dysvascular disease

Table 1: Patient Demographics (n=11,995)

Results

Older individuals with above-knee or below-knee amputations reported reduced mobility across the four primary etiologies. As expected, the oldest age group had the lowest mobility across amputation level and etiology. The diabetes/dysvascular etiology had the lowest median mobility scores across amputation levels and was significantly different from trauma, cancer, and congenital disease.

Figure 1

Changes in Mobility with Age

The optimal best fit line across age group medians was plotted for cancer, congenital, trauma, and diabetic/dysvascular etiologies for both individuals with above-the-knee and below-the-knee amputation. Diabetes/dysvascular shows the greatest decline with age.

Conclusion

  • The findings of this study are valuable and insightful because mobility seems to decline at different rates across amputation levels for cancer, congenital, and trauma compared to diabetes/dysvascular.
  • Individuals with amputation can struggle to understand realistic goal setting, which is also dependent on the underlying cause of amputation. Understanding the magnitude of the differences among the four etiologies may aid in the allocation of targeted interventions, and allows for a more nuanced discussion at the patient-clinician level for goal setting during the rehabilitation process.
  • Clinicians can help patients set goals based on how well individuals that are similar to them are able to perform when achieving their highest reported mobility, subsequently preventing unrealistic goals as well as encouraging attainable goals.
  • With an understanding of the general decline in mobility due to aging, future longitudinal studies may now have the ability to benchmark intervention performance in reducing the rate of decline in mobility associated with age.

Meet the MAAT VII Authors

Featured Clinician image

Dwiesha England, MSEng

Research Associate

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Featured Clinician image

Taavy Miller, PhD, CPO

Research Scientist

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Featured Clinician image

Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP

Vice President of Clinical Affairs

View Full Bio
Featured Clinician image

James H. Campbell, PhD

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF CLINICAL OFFICER, PRESIDENT HANGER VENTURES

View Full Bio
Featured Clinician image

Shane Wurdeman, PhD, CP, FAAOP(D)

Vice President of Scientific Affairs

View Full Bio

More Published Research

The OASIS series is part of a vast collection of landmark research studies already published, or in various stages of publication by the Hanger Institute for Clinical Research and Education, in collaboration with leading researchers, clinical, and academic institutions.

Learn More

Exercises for Coordination and Balance

Health Tips and Exercise Series – Coordination and Balance

Wondering how you can stay healthy and keep moving with your prosthetic or orthotic technology? Let’s start by looking at exercises for coordination and balance to keep you active and healthy throughout the year.

Today’s prosthetic and orthotic technologies are designed to help increase mobility and improve your quality of life. In addition to having access to the latest technology, exercising and eating right are also key components for better movement. In our Health Tips and Exercise Series, we will cover coordination and balance, endurance and strength, stretch and meditation, and healthy eating over the upcoming weeks. Let’s start with coordination and balance.

Coordination and Balance

To improve your balance, it’s important to strengthen your core, which includes your abs, lower back, and hip muscles. These muscles will work together to coordinate movement. Small movements done appropriately can engage your core and help increase stabilization.

Coordination and balance exercise samples:

Even Weight Bearing

While standing, many people shift their weight to one leg. Next time you are at the kitchen counter, waiting in line, or brushing your teeth, focus on standing with your weight evenly on both legs and continuing to keep your weight even.

Bird Dog

Position yourself on the floor with your knees directly under your hips, and your hands directly under your shoulders.

While keeping your back flat and head in line with your spine, extend one arm at a time out in front of you, hold, and then return to original position. Next extend one leg at a time out behind you, hold, and then return to original position. Repeat. Once you are able to do this, extend your opposite arm and leg together, hold, and then return to original position. Switch sides and repeat exercise.

Single Leg Balance

Begin by having something stable to hold on to. Stand with your feet together. Balance on one leg by bending at the knee, raising one leg forward or to the side, and holding. Return to original position and switch legs. Repeat exercise.

To increase difficulty, do not hold on to anything while performing this exercise, or try to perform this exercise with your eyes closed. You may also stay balanced on one leg and add arm movements by extending both arms straight in front of you, out to the sides, and overhead.

Single Leg Toe Tap

Stand in front of a step, preferably 6-8” tall. Begin by holding onto the walls or having something stable to hold on to. Shift all of your weight onto your right side, tap your left foot on top of the step, and then back down. Return to original position and switch sides. Decrease your upper extremity support as able.

Tightrope Walk

Follow a tile line in your floor or create a line with string or tape. Hold your arms out wide to the sides. Walk on the line one foot in front of the other trying not to step off to the side. Repeat going back and forth.

In addition to the exercises mentioned above, you may want to consider low impact activities such as yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi to increase coordination and balance. These exercises can be done at home or in a local studio to help build strength, reduce inflammation, manage stress, and improve mental health. And remember, it is recommended to consult with your health care team before starting a new exercise program.

If you are new to yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, or any other form of exercise that incorporates core strength and balance, consider signing up for a class and learning from an instructor to optimize your technique. Instructors that are trained to work with people with physical limitations can provide modifications to ensure exercises are performed properly and safe.

Jason Meints, Physical Therapist

Stay tuned for the upcoming blogs in our Health Tips and Exercise series on Endurance and Strength and Stretching, Meditation, and Nutrition.

Request a Free Evaluation

If you or someone you love are looking for personalized, high-quality care, get in touch with a board-certified orthotist or prosthetist at a Hanger Clinic near you.

Find A Clinic

Managing Diabetic Foot Complications

Managing Diabetic Foot Complications with the Right Knowledge, Systems, and Support

Chances are you or someone you know – a friend, family member, or co-worker – has been diagnosed with diabetes, a chronic disease affecting over 30 million people in the United States. For Diabetes Awareness Month, we take a look at the importance of proper foot care, prosthetic technology to help those facing limb loss, and the importance of social support.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes affects over 30 million people, or 9.4% of the population, in the United States.1 If left untreated, it can lead to complications, including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, issues with the skin and feet, and potentially even limb loss. In fact, of the nearly 2 million people living with limb loss in the United States, 54% are due to diabetes and peripheral artery disease.2

About Diabetes

There are two types of diabetes – type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is not preventable and is often referred to as juvenile diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes cannot produce their own insulin because their body has destroyed the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by either the inability to create enough insulin or because the insulin that is being produced isn’t working properly. When insulin isn’t working properly, it is known as insulin resistance. In most cases, type 2 diabetes is frequently developed in those who have a genetic predisposition, have underlying health problems that prevent active and healthy lifestyles, and have adopted an unhealthy diet and eating habits. An estimated 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.1

Managing Foot Health

If you are experiencing complications with your feet due to diabetes, you are not alone. A large percentage of people with diabetes experience medical issues with their feet.3 

Proper diabetic foot care can help you stay active and engaged in your daily activities, and is designed to reduce complications related to diabetes. Your mobility and quality of life depend upon close monitoring of your feet, proper shoe selection, lifestyle choices, and a commitment to your treatment plan.

Additionally, proper foot care can help you avoid problems that may lead to amputation. Practice good hygiene habits by cleansing and thoroughly inspecting your feet and wearing clean socks each day. If you are having trouble healing a wound on your foot, schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or podiatrist to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

Custom Diabetic Footwear

Your healthcare team will design a treatment program to meet your needs. Custom inserts, special shoes, and in some cases ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) can be prescribed to take pressure off specific areas of your foot where you struggle to heal and help prevent painful pressure points, blisters, foot ulcers, and sores from developing. They are made to fit your feet and are fabricated from breathable materials designed to cushion while providing extra support to the ankle, arch, and heel.

Diabetes is a complex and debilitating condition, and many people are trying to figure it out on their own. There is a lot of uncertainty in this diagnosis versus many other chronic diseases, and yet look at the ramifications that can come along with it. We need to provide early foot care options and social support to change the shame, the guilt, and the fear that people carry because of this disease.

Leslie Green, Community Care Coordinator

Limb Loss and Diabetes

The cause of amputations in people with diabetes is complex, often resulting from multiple issues in the feet. These may include:

  • loss of sensation in the feet from nerve damage (neuropathy)
  • poor circulation in the feet from the effects of diabetes on the arteries and small blood vessels
  • decreased healing ability and increased risk of infections in the feet and toes

For those facing limb loss, support will be crucial. Leslie Green, Hanger Clinic Community Coordinator, said, “I sit down with individuals with diabetes prior to surgery as they prepare for amputation and the future of walking with a prosthesis. They often feel shame and guilt, like they should have done more. We have to remember this is a chronic disease with so many facets and focus on the next steps. If they still have their other limb, let’s help ensure they are getting support and proper orthotic care to help preserve that limb. We talk through post-surgery expectations, rehabilitation, using prosthetic technology, and how to approach the next chapter in life.”

Post-surgery, wound healing and rehabilitation will be the next steps. You can then work with a Hanger Clinic prosthetist who is trained in the design, fabrication, and fitting of a prosthesis. Research shows that people with diabetes who remain actively engaged in their prosthetic rehabilitation experience high levels of quality of life, satisfaction, and sustained mobility, which is why it is important to talk to your prosthetist about your diabetes and your goals, expectations, and concerns so he or she can address your specific needs.4

Watch Now: Thriving as a Diabetic Amputee Featuring Leslie Green

Ongoing Diabetes Care

Leslie Green also shared how important it is to have a support system.

“Social and family support are some of the most influential and important factors to successfully control diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires extensive behavioral changes and adherence to a complex diet. Additionally, diabetics often face other underlying health issues impacting their life.

In addition to social support, education and a medical support team also play a vital role. Your Hanger Clinic pedorthist, orthotist, or prosthetist is just one member of your team. Other team members may include your family doctor, rehabilitation consultant, diabetes educator, podiatrist, physiotherapist, and pharmacist. The team may grow to include a dietitian, a psychologist, and an occupational therapist. It can seem overwhelming at times, however, a team approach is the best way to manage long-term wellbeing. Managing diabetes can be quite complex but with systems in place to support your needs, you can learn what to do and have access to care when you need it.”

Balanced with Diabetes

Interested in more information about living with limb loss and diabetes? Reach out to Leslie Green to connect with others and get information about education, resources, and community.
Email: [email protected]

Request a Free Evaluation

If you or someone you love is looking for personalized diabetes foot care, contact our Customer Care Center to find a Hanger Clinic footwear location near you.

Call (877) 442-6437

References

[1] National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/diabetes-stat-report.html

[2] Ziegler‐Graham, et al. Estimating the Prevalence of Limb Loss in the United States: 2005 to 2050. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2008;89(3):422‐9.

[3] Deshpande AD, Harris-Hayes M, Schootman M. Epidemiology of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. Phys Ther. 2008;88(11):1254-1264.

[4] Wurdeman S, Stevens P, Campbell J. Mobility Analysis of AmpuTees (MAAT 6): Mobility, Satisfaction, and Quality of Life among Long-Term Dysvascular/Diabetic Prosthesis Users—Results of a Cross-Sectional Analysis. Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics 2021;33(3):161-167.

Hanger Clinic Patient Athletes Shine at 2020 Tokyo Paralympics

Hanger Clinic is pleased to announce the results of our 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Team USA patient athletes. From overcoming barriers associated with the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., 2020 event postponement, no in-person fans or family support, and added logistics around travel and testing) to winning a gold medal while pregnant (Lora Webster) and representing Team USA as the youngest member of the Track & Field team (Ezra Frech), the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic team of Hanger Clinic patient athletes gave us all something to be proud of.

Spanning across at least six different summer Paralympic sports and more than 10 events, the hard work, dedication, and resilience of each athlete was admired by our family of nearly 5,000 Hanger employees, with the biggest supporters being the athletes’ clinicians themselves.

Pictured left to right:

  • We: Jeremy Bilow – Jamie Brown’s clinician
  • Are: Thomas Page – Ezra Frech’s clinician
  • Proud: Bryan Solomon – McKenna Geer’s clinician
  • Of: Jared Larson – Shelby Jensen’s clinician
  • You: Susan Cohen – Lora Webster’s clinician
  • Heart: Brock Heller – Jake Schrom’s clinician

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Hanger Clinic Patient Athletes & Results

Jamie Brown
Paratriathlon

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Result: 9th Place

Clinician: Jeremy Bilow, CPO, FAAOP | Portland, OR
Instagram: @jamiebrowntri

Ezra Frech
Track and Field

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Result: 5th Place High Jump; 8th Place Long Jump

Clinician: Thomas Page, CPO | Encino, CA
Instagram: @teamezra05

McKenna Geer
Rifle Shooting

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Result: 21st Place Mixed 10m Standing; 34th Place Mixed 10m Prone; 17th Place Mixed 50m Prone

Clinician: Bryan Solomon, CPO | Colorado Springs, CO
Instagram: @kennageer10.9

Shelby Jensen
Fencing

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Result: 7th Place Team Epee; 8th Place Team Foil; 12th Place Epee; 15th Place Saber

Clinician: Jared Larson, CPO | Salt Lake City, UT
Instagram: @shelby.jensen

Jake Schrom
Powerlifting

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Result: 6th Place

Clinician: Brock Heller, L/CPO | Carlisle, PA
Instagram: @jake_from_weight_farm

Lora Webster
Women’s Sitting Volleyball

2020 Tokyo Paralympics Result: 1st Place – Gold Medal

Clinician: Susan Cohen, CP | Rockville Centre, NY
Instagram: @lora.webster

Scenes from Tokyo

Although the stands were empty, the excitement and energy were abundant. Here are a few snapshots from our athletes’ time in Tokyo, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all.

Top Left: Track and Field Arena (photo by: Clayton Frech); Top Right: Jake Schrom Powerlifting; Bottom Right: Ezra Frech Holding Inspiration Flag (photo by: Clayton Frech); Bottom Middle: McKenna Geer; Bottom Left: Shelby Jensen (photo by: Kirby Wolff).

Schedule a Free Evaluation

If you or someone you love is looking to get back into the game, make an appointment at a Hanger Clinic near you.

Request an Appointment

Hanger Clinic Patient Athletes Head to Tokyo

Hanger Clinic Patient Athletes Head to Tokyo

Several athletes who receive orthotic or prosthetic care from Hanger Clinic are preparing to travel to Tokyo, where they will represent the United States in competition against the best para-athletes in the world.

Tokyo 2020: Tune into NBC from Aug. 24 – Sept. 5

Hanger Clinic patients participating include first-time athletes like 16-year-old Ezra Frech, the youngest member of the USA Para Track and Field Team, as well as returning athletes, like four-time medalist and Women’s Sitting Volleyball Team member Lora Webster:

  • Jamie Brown – Triathlon
  • Ezra Frech – Track and Field
  • McKenna Geer – Rifle Shooting
  • Shelby Jensen – Fencing
  • Jake Schrom – Powerlifting
  • Lora Webster – Sitting Volleyball

To watch their events and cheer them on, check out NBC’s program schedule. View the full press release for more information.

Watch Now: The Paralympic Journey

Paralympians Ezra Frech and McKenna Geer discuss their preparations and training for 2020, the team support they’ve had to achieve their goals, and what they’re looking forward to in Tokyo.

Proud Dad Moment: The Day Ezra Frech Became a Team USA Paralympic Athlete

Proud Dad Moment: The Day Ezra Frech Became a Team USA Paralympic Athlete

Clayton Frech is not your average dad. He’s the true definition of “super dad.” Father to three boys and co-founder of the Angel City Games presented by The Hartford, Clayton and his family’s life mission is to make the world a better, more inclusive place. And for him and his wife, Bahar Soomekh, it’s a mission that’s not only honorable, it’s personal.

When Clayton and Bahar’s oldest son, Ezra, was born with limb differences, it took the new parents by complete surprise. They had no idea until the day Ezra was born (May 11, 2005) that he would be missing four fingers on his left hand along with his left knee and left shin bone (causing his leg to curve into his waist). While the worries about his future immediately began to surface, Clayton and Bahar also quickly realized that Ezra’s story had a higher purpose. And that purpose was to help others.

“We named him Ezra, which means the helper, the teacher,” said Clayton. “And he has always demonstrated some powerful personal qualities. Some of these were on display when he was really young, making me believe in nature, maybe more than nurture.”

Watch Ezra’s Story

Big Dreams, Big Love

Ezra was born an athlete, and Clayton and Bahar knew it from the moment he started to crawl. At just 6 months old, he attended his first Challenged Athletes Foundation Triathlon, where he met Kevin Carroll, MS, CP, FAAOP/D, Hanger Clinic’s VP of Lower Extremity Prosthetics, who formed a close bond with the family and encouraged them that Ezra would be able to do anything he set his mind to.

Clayton and Bahar knew they wanted to give their active son every opportunity to walk, run, and play sports, so they decided to get him into a prosthesis as soon as he started pulling himself up to stand at 11 months old.  A year and a half later, Ezra underwent amputation surgery to remove the curved part of his leg, and they also transplanted the big toe from his left foot onto his left hand. This surgery was monumental because it not only provided him a better-fitting prosthetic leg, it also added a second finger to his left hand which allowed him to form a grip and function much more easily.

At four years old, Ezra received his first prosthetic knee and running leg from Hanger Clinic in Encino, California. Having a prosthesis with a knee allowed him to have a more normalized gait so he could run and play sports with the able-bodied kids his age.

According to Clayton, “Ezra has always been determined. He was designing his own basketball workouts when he was a toddler, like 2-3 years old.”

Ezra’s early years were not always easy for Clayton and Bahar. It was hard seeing their little boy undergo such difficult surgeries, and it was even harder navigating the hundreds of hours of physical and occupational therapy that followed. Bahar ended up stepping away from her career as a prominent actress to raise Ezra and his brothers, and as hard as it was, the parents knew they were making the best decisions for Ezra and their family.

Finding His Calling

In the world of sports, Ezra’s first love was basketball. He learned the game young – really young. He started passing the ball back and forth while sitting up at 6 months old and learned to count by 2s before he could count by 1s by watching Lakers games. At 4 years old, he started playing in basketball leagues and eventually started playing baseball, soccer, and flag football as well.

In 2013, the sports-loving Frech family decided to attend their first Paralympic-qualifying competition in Oklahoma, called the Endeavor Games. Eight-year-old Ezra competed in several track and field events and ended up setting records on events he learned just one day earlier. The Frechs wanted to find more opportunities for Ezra to compete but wished they didn’t have to travel so far to do it.

City of Angels

Clayton’s mind started spinning and he knew he had found his calling. He gave up his corporate career and embarked on a journey alongside his family to fill in some of the gaps in adaptive and Paralympic sports, particularly in Southern California where they live. And, two years later in 2015, he formally launched Angel City Sports with the inaugural Angel City Games.

Angel City Sports, named after and headquartered in the Frechs’ native Los Angeles, provides year-round free adaptive sports opportunities for kids, adults, and veterans with physical disabilities or visual impairments. The organization focuses on three main areas: 1) training and development through sports clinics and events; 2) access to equipment; and 3) access to competitions through the Angel City Games presented by The Hartford. With over 5 years under its belt, Angel City Sports has grown to become one of the premier adaptive sports organizations in the United States.

The greatest gift you can give is the ability to live a physically active and healthy life, and we’re doing that for people.

Clayton Frech, Ezra’s Dad & Co-Founder of Angel City Sports

Team Ezra: The Road to Team USA

At the same time his family was at work launching their incredible organization (which he was heavily involved in as well), Ezra shifted his athletic focus to track and field. He began competing regularly at the highest level, setting national records along the way. His talent didn’t go unnoticed either. He was named a finalist for the 2014 SportsKid of the Year by Sports Illustrated and appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show that same year.

In 2019, Ezra officially made the US Paralympic Track and Field National Team, competing in the long jump, high, jump, and 100m sprint at events around the world. He competed in the 2019 World Para Athletics Junior Championships where he won gold in the high jump and bronze in the long jump and 100m sprint in the U17 category, and then went on to compete against adults in the 2019 Parapan American Games in Peru where he won two silver medals, which helped earn Ezra a spot as the youngest athlete at the 2019 World Championships.

I will never forget the moment that Ezra first made the B standard in the high jump, which meant he was officially on The US Paralympic Track and Field National Team. It was at the Angel City Games presented by The Hartford in 2019, and we were surrounded by family and friends. We all exploded with joy, and Ezra came running towards me and almost tackled me with his hug. At that moment, I realized that watching your children achieve their dreams is way better than achieving your own!

Clayton Frech

Watch the Moment Ezra Qualified for Team USA

Making the US Paralympic Track and Field National Team is no easy feat. Experience the moment when Ezra realized he qualified back in 2019. Grab the tissues!

Watch Now

Proud Dad Moment: The Day Ezra Frech Became a Team USA Paralympic Athlete

Ezra Beats All Odds, Qualifies for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics

Throughout the global pandemic’s challenges starting in 2020, including a halt to athletic events, Ezra stayed dedicated to his training. He also worked closely with his Hanger Clinic prosthetist Thomas Page, CPO in Encino (the same clinic location where he received his first running blade) to be fit with a new running blade, knee, and socket that are aligned to allow him to compete optimally in three very different events. Thomas has gone to the track several times with Ezra to watch him practice and apply his observations to ensure his prosthetic leg is as light and durable as possible.

In June 2021, Ezra’s hard work and dedication to his craft finally paid off. As one of the youngest competitors at the US Paralympic Track and Field Team Trials in Minneapolis, he reached the A standard in the high jump and officially punched his ticket for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, now taking place in August 2021 due to the pandemic.

The pride Clayton and Bahar have for their son is indescribable. To see their child compete at the highest level and achieve his dreams at such a young age is more than any parent could hope for. They want Ezra’s story to be an example for others who have physical challenges, showing them that no matter their situation, it is possible to live healthy, active lives.

I am beyond proud of Ezra for his hard work, sacrifice, focus, dedication, and coachability. He’s a remarkable young man.

Clayton Frech