Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course (HME Dealers & Staff Only)

This certificate program will provide the participant with extensive education and training to fit therapeutic shoes. Diabetes patients, in particular, are prime candidates for therapeutic shoes and foot orthotics. Program topics include: anatomy of the foot, identification and analysis of conditions of the foot (including rearfoot, forefoot, and sports-related injuries), diabetic foot overview, selection of therapeutic shoes and orthotics, pro forma P&L, and billing basics for therapeutic shoes. Participants will learn how to develop a therapeutic foot care niche in their pharmacy, as well as marketing techniques in their community.

Completion of the NIPCO Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course (all seven [7] modules), as well as attending and successfully completing the Live portion conducted by NIPCO or one of its approved education partners will provide the participant with a NIPCO Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Certificate. This course can be applied toward the attainment of the NIPCO Pharmacist Care Diplomate credential, and the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) (www.abcop.org) certified fitter of therapeutic shoes credential and the Board of Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC) (www.bocusa.org) footwear specialist credential.

The home study component is available online (Members click here and Non-Members click here).

Professional Competencies

Describe the anatomy of the foot and ankle (bones, muscles, ligaments). Describe the prevalence of diabetes in the U.S. and the associated complications. Explain how diabetes affects the foot and how this affects shoe fitting. Describe the gait cycle, phases, muscle(s) involved. Identify common foot complications that should be referred to another healthcare professional. Demonstrate proper foot measuring technique. Demonstrate proper shoe fitting technique. Demonstrate heat molding of shoe inserts. Demonstrate the steps of cast molding. Relate how to establish a successful therapeutic shoe niche in a community pharmacy setting.