The Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics believes in training our graduates to be lifelong learners, as well as consumers and creators of knowledge. In the BS/MSOP track, research spans 6 quarters, is evidence based, and takes the students on a journey from statistical methods; research topic design, IRB proposal, submission and approval; informed consent process; data collection and analysis; research synthesis; and culminates with a capstone program and presentation. In the Hybrid MSOP track, research spans 3 quarters and culminates in an IRB proposal with which the student is equipped to collect data during residency. Students are encouraged and supported to strive towards preparing for publication and presentation at national peer reviewed conferences.

In-Progress MSOP Capstone Projects

  • 2020-2021
  • The Development and Efficacy of a Fully Silicone Socket Ischial Containment Transfemoral Socket vs a Carbon Fiber Socket in Balance, Range of Motion, and Comfort
  • The Effect of Alternative Prosthetic Alignments on Sit-to-Stand Proficiency in Transtibial Amputees
  • Various Social Media's Impact on Patient Satisfaction and Expectation of Their Prosthetic Device

Currently In-Progress PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences (with O&P Concentration) Research Topics

  • The Design, Prototype, and Testing of a Powered Robotic Prosthetic Leg

Completed MSOP Capstone Projects

2019-2020

  • Surveying Responses of Physicians, Prosthetists, and Transtibial Amputees on the Utilization of Immediate Postoperative Prosthesis (IPOP)
  • Strength of Recycled polypropylene and its use in Orthotic and Prosthetic Care.
  • Thermo-Chromic Silicone Liners for Intra-Socket Temperature Detection
  • Evaluating the Effect of Transtibial Pin Lock Suspension at Varying Distraction Values using a Modified Air Bladder Casting System

2018-2019

  • Measuring the variance in transtibial socket fit between sockets made by students, residents, and certified prosthetists using the aquacast technique
  • A Qualitative and Quantitative Comparison of Hydrostatic vs. Vacuum Casting Methods in Trans-tibial Amputees
  • The Effects of Variable Time Domain of Thermoforming Polypropylene
  • Incidence and Etiology of Underserved Amputees in San Bernardino County: Situation Analysis and Investigation of How to Improve Quality of Care

2017-2018

  • Does external sensing haptic feedback improve grasp performance for able-bodied volunteers using a hook terminal device?
  • Reduction of shear forces using semi-flexible sockets on transtibial amputees
  • Effects of Myofascial Release Massage on Pain Levels, Range of Motion, and Muscle Strength in Unilateral Lower Limb Amputees

2016-2017

  • Qualitative and Quantitative comparison of transtibial sockets and designs: polymer socket and carbon fiber socket
  • How do I document?” A Retrospective Analysis of Documentation for Prosthetic Devices and Subsequent Reimbursement
  • Comparison of the Amputee Mobility Predictor, Patient Assessment Validation Evaluation Test, and Clinician Subjective Observational Method in Determining Medicare Functional Classification Level.
  • Effects of K3 Feet on K2 Transtibial Ambulators
  • Biofilm Growth in Prosthetic Interfacing Systems
  • Medicare Denials

2015-2016

  • Effectiveness of Allocating Proper Resources for the Delivery of a Transtibial Prosthesis to the First Time User
  • Biocompatibility of PLA Plastic
  • A Novel Approach of Using Gelatin for Shape Capture
  • Testing Specialized Cycling Equipment in Rehabilitation for Patients with Lower Limb-Strength Discrepancies on Able-Bodied Subjects
  • Fall Rates of K2 above knee amputees as compared to K3 above knee amputees

2014-2015

  • The effect of anatomical versus traditional joint placement on articulated ankle foot orthoses and the consequences on parameters of gait
  • Gait analysis of a single axis and polycentric prosthetic knee unit in able bodied and amputee subjects
  • Effects of 3D printed cosmetic covers on quality of life in lower extremity amputees
  • A Comparative Study of Functional Grasp and Efficiency Between Trans-radial 3D printed vs. Myoelectric Prosthesis
  • Using Able-Bodied Subjects: A Pilot Study