President's Message: Introducing The Academy Today

By Tonja Randolph

The O&P EDGE debuted at the Academy meeting three years ago. We believed then as we do today, that the industry needed a strong, independent, industry-specific publication that provides high-quality, timely content.

The chances were slim that we would survive! Statistics show that 60 percent of all new magazines fail within their first year. We became incorporated not long after the infamous events of 9-11. Who would have thought the new kid on the block could pull it off?

We took a huge chance! But, because of you-our readers-our dreams have come true. Our staff has a deep passion for the O&P field, and we continue to be intrigued by the newest materials, procedures, and inventions. We are continually striving to provide even better information for you as we work toward being the leading publication in our industry.

Without our readers, there would be no reason for manufacturers, distributors, and facilities to advertise. And without advertisers, there would be no means to make our dream a reality.

Within two years, we've enjoyed tremendous growth. We've hired additional staff; we've moved into a commercial property, and our publishing company, Western Media LLC, is now cooperating with the Academy in the exciting new venture, The Academy TODAY.

The Academy TODAY will be included with The EDGE four times a year. This new supplement will give the Academy a voice to broadcast its messages. And like any association, the Academy has much to say. While we will continue to be a neutral publication, the Academy will have its own pull-out section that will be delivered with the same readership-over 11,000 professionals in our field of orthotists, prosthetists, orthotists/prosthetists, technicians, students/residents, manufacturers, distributors, pedorthists, physiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.

As always, we welcome your comments.

Table Of Contents - April 2005

	Focus on IPOPs, EPOPs: Does Early Mobility Benefit Amputees? “Although amputations have been performed for centuries as a lifesaving procedure, the current protocols for care of the person undergoing this life-altering surgical procedure, in some cases, may not reflect the complete and active lifestyle in which the amputee can now engage." Feature
	Kiwi: An RRD Innovation Feature - Exclusively Online
	Flo-Tech: Expanding Options Feature - Exclusively Online
	A New Paradigm of Postoperative Amputation Care Feature
	OA Knee Bracing Relieves Pain, Reduces Medication Need Feature
	Soldier Gets New Prosthetic Design Josh Olson can never forget the date of October 27, 2003. The young soldier on duty in Iraq was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade and lost his entire leg. An infantry squad leader, Olson knew immediately that the leg was gone, but says, “I was just happy to be alive!” Cutting Edge
	Online Education Technology: What We Have, What We Need Education Outlook
	Independent Networks: Leveling the Playing Field Leading EDGE
	O&P Aids Animals Creature Care
	Saddam's Palace Basement Becomes O&P Lab Global View
	Gary Horton's Goal: Providing a Lifetime of Support for Patients Industry Leader
	Got FAQs? Got FAQs?
	US-ISPO Conference Provides Much Food for Thought Association Spotlight
	CMS Proposes Wheelchair Codes Association Spotlight
	Jason M. Jennings, CPO Profile
	ACPOC/Academy Meeting Opens New Dimension Perspective
	President's Message: Introducing The Academy Today Viewpoints