August 13, 2019 – Pittsburgh, PA – First Things First, an OPAF workshop on falls and recovery recently came to Pittsburgh, thanks to sponsorship from Union Orthotics & Prosthetics, Encompass Health Rehab, DelaTorre Orthotics and Prosthetics and Elizur. The event was coordinated by University of Pittsburgh O & P Department Chair Sara Peterson, CPO and her MSOP students. The course was led by Chris Doerger PT, CP and held at the Homewood Brushton YMCA.
The morning session had O and P students and local practitioners as well as local community members with lower limb amputations learning more on prosthetic componentry, falls interventions and mitigation as well as hands on activities. Lunch was provided for all attendees. The afternoon session had more local community members join us for a time on the mats where they were taught a ‘reverse chain method’ of recovering from the floor and safety tips and measures to help forestall accidents or injuries.
“Great Experience! Learned a Bunch – Even the Kick” offered Lance Johnson.
OPAF looks to return to Pittsburgh in 2020 and work again with the UPitt students to bring more adaptive recreation and education to their community.
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About OPAF: Serving as the philanthropic arm of the US orthotic and prosthetic community, the Orthotic & Prosthetic Activities Foundation (OPAF), develops, implements, partners and hosts adaptive recreational clinics for those with physical challenges. The First Clinics are recognized as leaders in adaptive recreation. Whether this is the first time a participant is trying an activity after illness, injury or episode or the first time they are ever trying, First Clinics offer top notch adaptive instruction specifically for them. Founded in 1995 to support the Paralympic Games in Atlanta, OPAF & The First Clinics are now offering clinical evidence based education and training for allied health care professionals with select First Clinics and include continuing education credits. For more information on OPAF and The First Clinics, visit www.opafonline.org.