Orthotic and prosthetic management, physiotherapy, and podiatry all play critical roles in preventing wounds, protecting vulnerable limbs, and treating diabetic patients. Globally, diabetes is a leading cause of impairment and amputation, and can also result in blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, chronic wounds, and lower-limb loss. The number of people living with diabetes is projected to rise from 529 million today to 1.3 billion by 2050. Up to 25% of people with diabetes will develop a wound in their lifetime, and 85% of all amputations are preceded by a diabetic foot wound.

As more people live with multiple complications from diabetes, the strain on healthcare systems will continue to grow. This interactive panel will bring together experienced clinicians from multiple disciplines to share insights, strategies, and technologies used in the prevention and treatment of lower-extremity complications. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on assessment, offloading techniques, and collaborative care models that help save limbs and lives.

Panelists

Lynne Clark – Physiotherapist at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, specializing in Orthopaedic Technology, Total Contact Casting, wound care, and patient education for diabetic foot health.

Dr. Caroline Leverett – Registered Podiatrist with 26 years of experience, leader of a multidisciplinary foot care team, rural practice owner, and Executive Board Member of the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association.

John Rahman – Certified Orthotist CO(c) in private practice, member of the Sheldon Chumir Wound Clinic Team, presenter, and author on wound care and diabetic foot complication management.

Holly Houston – Registered Technician in Prosthetics and Orthotics RTPO(c) at A.R. Menzies in Fredericton, NB, with 19 years of experience, a history of teaching in George Brown College’s Technical Program, and active service on OPC’s Board and committees.

Allan Blyt – Certified Prosthetist Orthotist CPO(c) in BC, Past President of national and provincial P&O associations, current Chair of OPC’s Partnership and Advocacy Committee, and 2025 OPC Fellow.

This panel will be moderated by Emma Holmes, CO(c) and is being presented by Orthotics Prosthetics Canada in the lead-up to our National Orthotics & Prosthetics Day celebrations.

OPC Members will receive 1.0 MCEs for attending this event.