OPERF | Orthotic and Prosthetic Education and Research Foundation

OPERF Mission

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Education and Research Foundation (OPERF) was established to raise the standards of education and research in the O&P profession. Practicing O&P professionals founded the organization to meet the ever-changing needs of the field.

OPERF will award grants to promote research in the profession with the goal of providing the best possible care to patients in need of O&P care. The Foundation will also assist students currently attending or entering O&P education programs by providing competitive grants and awards as they pursue careers as O&P professionals, faculty or researchers in the field.

For additional information about OPERF, click here.

OPERF Announces 2012 Research Award Recipients

Small Grant Award
Stefania Fatone, PhD, BPO (Hons)
Northwestern University
Larissa Pavone, MD
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
Improving Lower Extremity Orthotic Management of Children with Cerebral Palsy


Fellowship Awards
Christopher Baschuk, BS
University of Texas Southwestern School of Health Professions


Validation of Alternative Posterior Attachments for Upper Limb Figure of Eight Harnessing

Shane Wurdeman, CP, MSPO
University of Nebraska at Omaha/Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility


Quantifying Stride-to-Stride Fluctuations in Amputee Gait: Implications for Improved Outcomes


Resident Travel Awards
Abbey Meyer, LO
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children


Effect of Compliance Counseling on Brace Success in Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Preliminary Report
Megan Zachar, MSPO, CO
Gary M. Berke Prosthetics and Orthotics


Treatment Options and Outcomes for Lower Extremity Bone Tumors in Children: A Literature Review


WASHINGON-The Orthotic and Prosthetic Education and Research Foundation (OPERF) congratulates the 2012 Research Award Program recipients and thanks everyone who applied. OPERF's Board of Directors also extends its gratitude and appreciation to all of those who served as clinical and scientific reviewers for this year's submissions. Their help and support ensure that all applicants receive constructive feedback and suggestions.

OPERF's Research Award Program, now in its fourth year, encourages and stimulates research at all levels of the O&P profession with awards ranging from $1,000 to $25,000. OPERF is proud to promote research and education in the O&P profession. Thanks go out to all the individuals, companies, and organizations within the O&P profession who sustain these programs through their generous donations.