Category: News

Orthotix sign a long-term multi-million pound distribution deal with Spanish orthotic manufacturer Orliman

Every year on the 22nd of September, we observe National Foot Drop Awareness Day to shed light on a condition that affects countless individuals worldwide. Foot Drop, also known as Drop Foot, can have a significant impact on a person’s mobility and quality of life. In this blog, we’ll explore what Foot Drop is, its early signs, what happens after diagnosis, its symptoms, and some positive statistics that offer hope and inspiration.

What is Foot Drop?

Foot Drop is a medical condition characterised by the inability to pick the foot up, leading to dragging the toes whilst walking. It occurs due to the impairment of the muscles and nerves that control foot movement. The most common causes of Foot Drop include nerve damage, muscular disorders, spinal cord injuries as well as neurological conditions such as strokes and motor neurone disease.

Early signs of Foot Drop:

Recognising the early signs of Foot Drop is crucial for timely intervention. Some common indicators include:

• Tripping or stumbling whilst walking.

• Difficulty in lifting the front of the foot, causing it to drag on the ground.

• A sensation of weakness or numbness in the leg or foot.

• Pain or discomfort in the leg, ankle, or foot.

What happens once diagnosed with Foot Drop?

Once diagnosed with Foot Drop, a medical professional will determine the underlying cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment options may include:

• Physical therapy to strengthen the affected muscles.
• Orthotic devices such as braces or splints to support the foot and ankle.
• Assistive devices like canes or walkers to improve stability and balance.
• Nerve stimulation or surgery in severe cases.

Symptoms of Foot Drop:

Foot Drop can manifest with various symptoms, which may vary in severity from person to person. Some common symptoms include:

• Inability to dorsiflex the foot (Ability to lift the foot upwards towards the shin).
• Altered gait pattern, such as a high-stepping gait to compensate for foot drop.
• Muscle weakness or atrophy in the affected leg.
• Reduced sensation or tingling in the foot or leg.
• Difficulty performing daily activities like climbing stairs or walking long distances.

Positive Foot Drop Statistics:

Whilst Foot Drop can be challenging, there are positive statistics that offer hope:

• Treatment Success: Many individuals with Foot Drop respond well to treatment, particularly physical therapy, and orthotic devices, regaining significant mobility and independence.
• Medical Innovation: Ongoing advancements in medical technology and surgical procedures offer new hope for those with severe cases of Foot Drop.
• Awareness and Support: National Foot Drop Awareness Day serves as a platform to raise awareness, promote research, and foster support networks for individuals and their families affected by this condition.

What can we offer?

At Orthotix, we understand the struggles people who suffer with Foot Drop go through daily. That is why we offer a wide selection of products specifically designed to assist with Foot Drop.

Products include:

• Boxia®: A UK leading orthosis for discreet treatment of Foot Drop. Its innovative, lightweight, and comfortable design provides vital foot clearance during the swing phase, thus reducing the risk of tripping.
• StepUp®: Developed by our very own team of healthcare professionals, the StepUp® is an ultra-discreet dynamic device that is simplistic in design and easily accommodated in footwear. Utilising soft fabric and touch-and-close fastenings. It maintains a low-profile that is easy to don/doff.
• AFX: A low-profile prefabricated leaf spring design that provides plantarflexion resistance. This AFO that provides dorsiflexion assistance. Constructed from injection moulded polypropylene with a carbon fibre composite for reinforced strength which maintains a neutral foot position to limit the risk of trips and falls. Available in a light version and an extra version.
• CAFO: A reinforced carbon fibre device that is preset in dorsiflexion to ensure the foot is positioned in an optimal position to limit foot drop. Lightweight and slim line, the device has a medial strut with built in arch support for improved fit and comfort whilst also providing mild mediolateral support.

National Foot Drop Awareness Day reminds us of the importance of early detection, proper management, and support for those living with Foot Drop. By understanding the condition and its symptoms, we can take steps toward improving the quality of life for individuals affected by Foot Drop and work towards a future where mobility limitations are minimised. Together, we can make a positive impact and provide hope to those facing this challenging condition.

Our Orthotix clinic offer multi-disciplinary consultations for the whole body and have a wealth of knowledge in the orthopaedic and sporting field, with partners such as Cardiff City Football Club, Wales Netball, Disability Sport Wales, and include exclusive affiliations with medal winning Para-athletes Aled Davies (OBE) and Harrison Walsh.

You can browse our whole range of Foot Drop products over on our website. Simply search product name or ‘Foot Drop’ in the navigation bar and then watch all the product pop up for you to browse.

To enquire about appointments or to discuss any orthotic requirements contact [email protected]

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A big thank you to everyone who attended the inaugural PTH Enterprises Gala making the evening a resounding success. The truly memorable occasion brought together over 125 colleagues & special guests from across the newly formed PTH business group, which includes Dacey Orthotic Solutions, Orthotix, Ace Feet In Motion and The Healthcare Hub.

Co-Owners Paul, Tom and Hayley presenting at the inaugural PTH Gala evening.

The lavish black-tie event catered for by Spiros Fine Dining and held at St Peter’s Hall in Cardiff, served several purposes. Firstly, it provided a wonderful platform to celebrate the remarkable 50-year work anniversary for the last remaining Welsh orthotic manufacturer, Dacey Ltd. The event also presented the ideal backdrop for the new leadership team to recognise and award employees for outstanding performance and service to their respective businesses. Lastly, it was the perfect setting for a special tribute to former Owner- Bob Cooper, who picked up a lifetime achievement accolade for a career that spanned three decades.

To view all the photographs taken by Mustard Fox Photography from the big night, simply follow the link: https://qrco.de/bdXMsb

50 YEARS OF DACEY

During the Gala event, former MD – Bob Cooper and colleagues reflected on the incredible journey the business has had from its inception to its milestone 50^th anniversary. In 1972 the original Dacey & Co was formed by a man called Brian Dacey, hence the unusual business name DACEY, which has now been carried for 50 years.

The original business was formed because the manufacturing workshop based in the Prince of Wales Hospital Cardiff was closing, so Brian decided to take on the staff and set up his own small manufacturing firm to continue making bespoke orthoses – or surgical appliances as they were called then. Brian was a lovely caring person but lacked business acumen and he also needed a clinical partner. So, John Prosser, the late Grancha of the new owners, who was an Orthotist agreed to go into business with Brian, thus forming Dacey & Co, which went on from there.

Co-Founder John Prosser and his original team of Orthotic Technicians

Into the late 80’s and Brian had enough of the stresses that came with running a business so he sold his shares to a German businessman called Michael Mais, who then incorporated Dacey Ltd. It was Michael’s plan to expand the business into the world of prosthetics, however, for several reasons it never happened and both he and John became more and more disillusioned with the industry.

At the same time the Quality Standard 5750 became mandatory for NHS contracts. John was not one for ‘red tape’ and decided that enough was enough and considered packing it all in. At this point in 1992, Bob Cooper stepped in and agreed to get the onerous Quality Standard, which he did, before buying Michael out of the company. Effectively Bob became the Managing Director in 1995 when John retired from the business. From that point on, the business expanded from 20 employees to over 100, successfully gaining contracts across Wales and the South West of England, having to relocate to two larger factories in the process.

Stuart Rees, Managing Director of Dacey Orthotic Solutions enjoying the event.

By the time Stuart Rees took over the reins in 2019, Dacey Orthotic Solutions as it is now known, had increased revenue by more than tenfold from its early days. More importantly it’s believed that the business has now helped to improve the lives of over 1.75 million patients, which is something all staff (past and present) are very proud of and keen to build on in the future.

In a memorable moment, at the end of the 50th anniversary speeches, everyone in attendance stood together and raised the roof with a toast to Dacey for an astounding innings, 50 and not out!

Dacey Orthotic Technicians charge their glasses ready to toast the 50^th anniversary!

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

The new executive leadership team are big advocates of acknowledging outstanding employee contribution and performance across the business group. As part of the new culture, that is being instilled across the business group, employee awards are now given on an annual basis and all recipients are voted for by their respective Managing Directors and Senior Leadership Teams.

On the night, the ‘Employee of The Year’ awards went to, Sarah Heaven – Dacey Orthotic Solutions, Hannah Perrett – Orthotix, Darren Herman – ACE Feet In Motion and Aaron Burgess – PTH Enterprises.

Additionally, there was also recognition for a select group of employees who’ve given 25 years of continuous service across the business group. Awards for this remarkable feat went to Nick Newman (Dacey Orthotic Solutions), Gareth Innes (Dacey Orthotic Solutions), Paul Webber (Dacey Orthotic Solutions), and Julie Tait (Orthotix).

Employee Award Winners from respective businesses in the PTH Group 2022.

During the awards ceremony Group CEO – Paul Cooper said,

“… In today’s climate, it’s proving difficult to retain staff for 25 minutes let alone 25 years, so it’s heart-warming to see the loyalty and commitment that we still have sprinkled throughout our businesses … Well done to everyone who picked up an award, your dedication and effort is greatly appreciated.”

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT ACCOLADE

The Gala was a fitting time to present a special tribute to someone who has always shunned the spotlight despite taking center stage for the best part of his career. Having been bought out just before the Covid crisis escalated, former Owner / Managing Director – Bob Cooper, stepped down under the radar, with little fuss from his devoted workforce. Unbeknown to him, the final presentation of the evening was to address this by acknowledging his sterling career with the presenting of a lifetime achievement accolade. No doubt he was horrified by the attention, but deep down under his grizzly exterior, he was accepting of the sentiment behind the words spoken and the accolade itself.

Former Owner / Managing Director, Bob Cooper collecting his lifetime achievement accolade from his children and new owners Paul, Tom & Hayley.

Bob successfully ran multiple businesses for over 30 years, which is testament to his incredible work ethic and resilience. In fact, these are the two strengths which he attributes to his longevity in business, and he is not done yet, Bob continues to work for the PTH Group in an advisory capacity.

On the night Bob Cooper signed off in style, referencing an old quote he’d used many times in his early career, stating he has “always been big enough to cope and small enough to care”, before taking to the dancefloor, microphone in hand, inviting all of his former colleagues to join him in a rendition of his favourite Frank Sinatra hit – My Way.

It was a fitting way to sign off the first ever PTH Enterprises event in style!

The family behind the PTH group of businesses.

The healthcare group PTH Enterprises includes Dacey Orthotic Solutions, Orthotix, Ace Feet In Motion and The Healthcare Hub. Follow the links to learn more about the businesses.

August saw the long-awaited launch of our new 6^th edition product catalogue. Having been delayed twice in the last 18 months for various covid-related issues, it has been a real labour of love for all involved. I’m proud to announce our much anticipated 224-page offering, is finally available in both digital and print format. Download a copy here to see what you think of our efforts!

Unbelievably it’s been 5 years since our last Orthotix product catalogue was released. The old catalogue launched back in 2017 and was a big step forward for us at the time. Reflecting on how far Orthotix has come since then and flicking through our old and new catalogues, it’s fair to say that the business has evolved on multiple levels. In my relatively new role as Managing Director, I’d like to take this opportunity to share some insight on what I feel Orthotix, and our new catalogue now offers.

Supporting your wellbeing

Our mantra since the inception of the business – “Supporting your wellbeing” is now promoted centre stage, forming part of our revised full Orthotix logo. This subtle amendment reflects the broader scope of business that Orthotix is now operating in. Our product range has diversified to include a wider spectrum of class 1 medical products applicable to the orthopaedic, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and podiatric sectors.

Market-led product diversification

We have made a conscious effort to be receptive to the needs and wants of our complete customer profile which now includes Healthcare Professionals, healthcare businesses, private patients, and the public. This has led to the introduction of entire new product groups such as paediatric, bariatric, hernia, and modular/bespoke insoles.

Innovative new products developed in our NHS clinics have also been introduced to plug the gaps that we’ve previously had in our range. Many of these additions are not only new to our marketplace but unique to Orthotix. Products such as oversplint footwear, protective baseball caps, hernia containment swimwear, infinite contracture bracing, reusable waterproof cast covers and limb de-rotation bands are just a handful of examples, all of which are showcased in our new catalogue.

Orthotix 6th Edition Catalogue displayed.

UK exclusive brand distribution

It’s been a long-time coming, but we are now established as the exclusive UK distributor for several highly regarded brands in the European orthopaedic sector. Being a sole distributor in the UK for Orliman (Spain), Pavis (Italy) and Ribcap (Switzerland) enables us to bolster our own branded product ranges with the best of their internationally acclaimed products. One example being the original market leading textile drop foot orthosis – The Boxia® and the new Boxia Plus®, both game-changing products are now stocked in vast quantities with next day availability for all clinicians and patients of the UK.

Orliman Boxia in use & Orthotix exclusive UK brand logos.

QR codes: digital integration

Throughout the covid pandemic and imposed restrictions, many of us will have become familiar with scanning QR codes on our own mobile phones. In what I believe is an industry first in the UK, we have now harnessed this concept and integrated it throughout our new catalogue. By utilising our own team of Orthotists, Podiatrists and GP’s we now offer professional product demonstrations and how-to-fit videos adding value to our user experience whilst optimising product fitting. In line with our national ‘Green Pledge’ we are also proactively promoting the uptake of digital copies, which is evident on the front cover of the new catalogue. Simply scan the QR code and download a secure digital copy to your handset or tablet and help us to reduce our carbon footprint.

Short video demonstrating how to use the QR codes included in the new Orthotix 6th Edition Catalogue.

Clear business vision & purpose

The business has re-established its purpose with a clear vision. At Orthotix we are striving to be recognised as the UK’s leading and most trusted supplier of high-quality readymade class 1 medical devices. We are committed to improving public access to a diverse range of functional and affordable product by distributing to NHS hospitals, healthcare businesses, private clinics, sports organisations and direct to public via our online platforms.

We’ve adopted an omni-channel business model and are now well positioned to deliver our ambitious vision over the coming years. Our new 6th edition catalogue is the first steppingstone for us on our continued journey!

If scanning QR codes and digital files are not for you, please email [email protected] if you’d like to receive a complimentary printed copy of our new catalogue in the post.

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Nathan Stephens (Performance Pathway Senior Officer) & Hayley Huntley (Managing Director at Orthotix)

Stuart Hogg (Össur Sales Director), Chris Law (Orthotix Clinical Director) & Giles Leeming (Össur Clinical Director at Össur UK Headquarters)

“I’m thrilled to have been able to establish our new partnership agreement with Giles and his team at Össur UK. At Orthotix, we are continually striving to improve our orthotic provision for our clinicians especially across our affiliated DOS clinical network. Having worked with all the DOS Orthotists and visited many of our in house clinicians, I know they’ll welcome this announcement, with the hospitals and their patients benefitting immensely.”

Orthopaedic footwear has come on leaps and bounds. No longer are they as stigmatising as the preconceptions we all generally have.

There are ongoing historical problems when it comes to fitting ankle foot orthoses, bulkier bespoke insoles, and splints into footwear. It is an age-old issue that many healthcare professionals face on a daily basis and is something that is constantly addressed.

The issue not only starts there, as it’s not just as simple as finding a shoe big enough for accommodating an Orthosis, its the multiple difference shoe designs, and constructions. Parents and carers enter a world of complete confusion, and despite the ongoing knowledge from the clinicians, its so difficult to advise them accordingly when brands and seasonal styles change so often, resulting in what was last year’s ideal model now becoming completely obsolete only 6 months later.

Not only is all this a problem, but the younger demographic is left with limited choices. As NHS budgets lessen and the ability to provide over-splint footwear is further clamped down on, parents are left with ultimately two options. They can have their children fitted in NHS supplied Orthopedic boots which essentially replace the need for splints when applicable, as an alternative treatment or they must find shoes from the high street which go over the splints. These are usually 2-3 sizes bigger than required to accommodate the bulkier Orthosis device.

Orthoapaedic footwear has come on leaps and bounds. No longer are they as stigmatising as the preconceptions we all generally have. Long gone are the boots seen on Forrest Gump, as Orthopaedic footwear is now much trendier and high street in appearances.

Our feet are made up 26 bones covering a multiple of joints, and naturally can dorsiflex and move to allow a fluid transition into footwear. This, however, is much more difficult and restrictive when the foot and ankle is not only fixed in a set position, but also when the space in the shoe is limited by design. We also must consider that bracing/splinting which encumbers the whole surface of the foot essentially makes the foot much bigger than it non splinted counterpart or the internals of the shoe are taken up with bulky orthosis such as total contact insoles, and other orthopaedic bracing, meaning foot room is reduced.

The difficulty is finding footwear which opens low enough to allow a rigid splint sufficient entry into the shoe. Ideally the facing and laces should be as low as possible to give the top of the shoe a larger opening, and a back height low enough to allow a shallow entry angle for the device to get into the shoe unrestricted. The issue with this, however, is these designs become too shallow and don’t often accommodate for the extra depth needed.

It’s worth aiming for mid top height trainers or a boot which gives you deeper internals and a deeper quarter compared to a shoe, but with this the styles available then don’t often have the lower laced openings. This means you cannot pitch the splint correctly into the footwear and there’s a struggle to position the orthosis into the footwear.

With these issues in mind, in 2016, two Seattle men entered the market with a solution that could change the way Orthosis are accommodated into footwear. One of these men, Billy Price, a teenager that initially suffered a spinal cord injury in 1996 resulting in him being a paraplegic from the waist down. Billy had daily difficulties with mobility, dressing himself and spent years adapting to his new lifestyle after his accident. Undeterred with whatever life threw at him, Billy found ways to plan, strategise and overcome most hurdles. However, he never did fully figure out the frustration with his over splint footwear. With all the above issues mentioned, Billy set out and designed footwear which he knew would fill a void in the market. Partnering with financial expert and operations specialist Darin Donaldson, they created and launched Billy footwear.

Billy footwear came to market as a universal shoe. A term defined in the fact that its design and features were universally acceptable and beneficial for the masses whilst still allowing for individuality. A design and structure were incorporated into their footwear meaning they worked and appealed to everyone requiring help with donning footwear, whilst giving them a shoe which provided fashion and function. They achieved this by making a trainer style mid top boot, with modern canvas uppers and welted soles, which incorporated a zipper fastening giving the footwear a completely unique USP.

The shoes not only allow for hidden depth and extended back heights to physically give support around the heel of the splint, but they also help to accommodate the device into their uppers seamlessly. They manage to do this thanks to their unique complete front opening zipper. The shoe can open fully from the instep down to the toe end of the shoe and can be folded open like a book to allow any Orthotic device to sit straight down into the footwear. This means that the issues with entry or obtuse angles into the footwear are completely eradicated. The footwear therefore finally has ease of application, an ability to accommodate orthoses without restriction, and are fashionable and available in a multitude of sizes.

From kids with special needs and the requirement to wear splinting, parents struggling to find the right design of footwear to children that are simply struggling to tie laces and parents which might have their comorbidities or mobility issues meaning they cannot assist in putting their children’s shoes on. Billy footwear opens to an entire range of clientele in need for easy to fit footwear. They are quick, easy to fit, secure and supportive.

Billy footwear is manufactured and distributed from the US, however, Orthotix are now in partnership with their UK distributor to allow these functional, fashionable and price friendly shoes to be ready available through NHS clinics and private clinics across the UK, as well as on our e-commerce platforms and web shops.

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Orthotix Warehouse team & Co-Owners Hayley and Paul with their Ukraine-bound donation of medical devices.

Jac Palmer, Tom Cooper (Managing Director of ACE Feet in Motion), Bethan Davies, Adam Rattenbury (Lead Performance Physiotherapist & Athlete Service Manager of Welsh Athletics), Jenny Nesbitt, Hayley Huntley (Managing Director of Orthotix), Jeremiah Azu

The renewed partnership will allow funded Welsh athletes to benefit from expert clinical services and specialist sports medicine bracing for the duration of the athletics calendar.

Orthotix are delighted to announce that they have extended their exclusive partnership deal with Welsh Athletics. This will see the Cardiff based business continue as the official supplier of sports injury bracing, orthopaedic supports and rehabilitation devices until 2023.

Welsh Athletics is the national governing body for Athletics in Wales, they look after sport in all disciplines from the grassroots up to Commonwealth Games teams. They work with their partners and stakeholders across Wales to support a growing network of clubs and their members by providing an affiliation and support structure that aims to ensure there are safe, fun and accessible opportunities for all to participate.

The renewed partnership will allow funded Welsh athletes to benefit from expert clinical services and specialist sports medicine bracing for the duration of the athletics calendar.

The medical team at Welsh Athletics will now be able to refer any athletes requiring specialist orthotic bracing to the new Orthotix clinical facility, run by Consultant Orthotist & Clinical Director – Chris Law. The recently launched clinic which is now open to the public has been setup to enable improved access to much needed class 1 medical devices. It will enable patients to be measured, fitted and supplied with medically approved product for various orthopaedic conditions and injuries. The clinic offers the public daily walk-in slots (Mon-Friday) and diarised appointments for more technical product requirements.

The agreement sees Welsh Athletics remain amongst an impressive roster of elite sporting brands. All of which have partnered with Orthotix to benefit from their market leading products and clinical services offered.

Managing Director Hayley Huntley says;

“I’m delighted to extend our agreement so we can continue to play our small part in assisting the fantastic medical team at Welsh Athletics. They do a great job ensuring that the most promising athletes from across Wales remain fit and healthy to compete at the highest level in their chosen events.”

Welsh Athletics Lead Performance Physiotherapist & Athlete Service Manager Adam Rattenbury commented:

“Orthotix have been, and continue to be a valuable partner to our athlete support team at Welsh Athletics. We have worked together since 2015 and frequently use their services to help our supported athletes, whether it be their gait analysis, orthoses, footwear modification service or sports and orthopaedic bracing.  Their friendly customer service and extensive knowledge of sports injuries, make them an ideal partner as we look towards this summers Commonwealth Games and beyond.”

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