Arthromax Diabetic Foot Orthotist Program

A Six-Month Diploma in Diabetic Foot Orthotics

Program Overview

The Arthromax Certified CPO (Certified Prosthetist Orthotist) Program is a comprehensive six-month diploma designed to equip healthcare professionals and aspiring orthotists with the essential theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical expertise required for the assessment, fabrication, and dispensing of diabetic foot orthotics.

Importance of the Diploma

With the alarming rise in diabetes prevalence in Pakistan and globally, the incidence of diabetic foot complications — especially diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) — is steadily increasing. DFUs are among the leading causes of non-traumatic lower limb amputations. One of the most effective ways to prevent and manage these complications is through appropriate orthotic intervention.

Despite the urgency, there remains a shortage of trained professionals who understand the unique pathophysiology of the diabetic foot and can provide effective orthotic solutions. This diploma addresses that gap by training the next generation of Certified Orthotists with a focused specialization in diabetic foot management.

Program Duration

6 Months (Full-time / Part-time with clinical rotations)

Eligibility Criteria

• Background in Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Nursing, MBBS, DPT, or related Allied Health Sciences
• Final year students or graduates in Prosthetics & Orthotics

Location & Instructors

Venue: Hanif Medical Complex, Saidpur Road, Near Asghar Mall Chowk, Rawalpindi

Faculty:

Prof Dr. Jamal Zafar, FCPS: Former Chairman of The Department of Internal Medicine, PIMS, Islamabad and CEO of Hanif Medical Complex, Rawalpindi.

Dr. Faizan Nihal, FCPS: Vascular Surgeon Hanif Medical Complex Rawalpindi and The Diabetes Center Islamabad

Kamran Saleem Awan CPO `(HCPC-UK): Orthotic and Podiatric Consultant Hanif Medical Complex, Rawalpindi

Curriculum Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Diabetes & Diabetic Foot (2 Weeks)

• Pathophysiology of Diabetes
• Epidemiology of Diabetes in South Asia
• Diabetic Neuropathy and Vascular Complications
• Classification of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (Wagner, PEDIS, SINBAD)

Module 2: Functional Foot Anatomy & Biomechanics (3 Weeks)

• Anatomy of the Foot & Ankle
• Gait Analysis and Pressure Mapping
• Biomechanical Pathologies in Diabetics
• Identifying High-Risk Areas in the Diabetic Foot

Module 3: Orthotic Solutions for Diabetic Foot (4 Weeks)

• Overview of Orthotic Materials
• Types of Insoles: Accommodative vs. Functional
• Diabetic Footwear: Design and Selection Criteria
• Total Contact Insoles and Pressure Redistribution
• Prefabricated vs. Custom Devices

Module 4: Clinical Assessment & Casting Techniques (3 Weeks)

• Patient History and Risk Factor Evaluation
• Vascular & Neurological Screening (e.g., monofilament, ABI)
• Foot Casting Methods (Foam Box, Plaster, 3D Scanning)
• Documentation & Prescription Writing

Module 5: Fabrication & Finishing (4 Weeks)

• Workshop Safety and Tool Handling
• Fabrication of Custom Insoles
• Thermoforming, Grinding, and Finishing
• Use of CAD/CAM and Digital Technologies (In case of availability)

Module 6: Wound Care & Interdisciplinary Collaboration (2 Weeks)

• Basics of Wound Healing & Dressing
• Offloading Strategies
• Multidisciplinary Approach to DFU Management
• Referral Protocols and Follow-Up Plans

Module 7: Ethics, Communication & Professionalism (1 Week)

• Patient-Centered Care & Empathy
• Record Keeping & Compliance
• Working with Physicians and Surgeons
• Counseling for Lifestyle Modification

Module 8: Clinical Rotations & Case Studies (6 Weeks)

• Supervised Clinical Exposure
• Case-based Learning Sessions
• Real-time Assessments and Dispensing
• Feedback and Mentorship

Assessment & Certification

• Written Examinations (Module-wise)
• OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)
• Final Project: Case Study Presentation
• Clinical Performance Evaluation

Graduates of the program will receive the “Arthromax Certified CPO – Diabetic Foot Specialist” diploma, enabling them to independently assess, design, and dispense diabetic foot orthoses under clinical settings.

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Career Opportunities

• Work in multidisciplinary diabetic foot clinics
• Serve as affiliate practitioners in the Arthromax network
• Support hospitals and physiotherapy centers
• Start private practice in diabetic foot orthotic care

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Arthromax is committed to raising the standard of diabetic foot care in Pakistan. This diploma is not just a course — it is a movement to empower clinicians with the tools to save limbs and restore mobility.

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