bauerfeind life international (issue 2016/2)

Compression therapy during pregnancy“Right away for patients with thrombophilia” page 32

Treatment of diabetic foot syndromeSuccessful network: significantly fewer amputations page 22

Modern measurement technologyBodytronic, medilogic and Co.: “A real image boost” page 36

In the balanceAnkle therapy

Issue summer 2016

internationalmagazine

FOR A PAIN-FREE PREGNANCYMedical compression stockings improve the flow of blood through the veins and relieve the venous system. This can sig-nificantly alleviate typical symptoms during pregnancy, such as swollen legs, ankle edema and the formation of spider veins. As a maternity pantyhose, VenoTrain micro comes with a particu-larly elastic belly section and is pleasantly soft thanks to its high microfiber content.

BAUERFEIND.COM

VenoTrain® microPleasantly soft thanks to microfibers

»GREAT EXPECTATIONS «

VenoTrain® micro

Medical Compression Stockings

bf_az_gio_schwanger_bf-live_210x280+3_160512.indd 1 25.05.2016 18:19:53

life magazine summer 2016 3

EDITORIAL

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Dear readers,

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For the last 15 years, we have shared news and information with our German partners in the fields of medicine, retail and technology through our magazine Bauerfeind life. We also began publishing a magazine for the international market in 2010. We are now merging both publications into a single Bauerfeind life magazine, which will be more extensive and diverse than ever before and will reach tens of thousands of physicians and medical retailers worldwide. We will of course continue to bring you the latest product news, as well as featuring studies involving our products and real-life reports from the people who use them. However, as an international company, in future we would also like to give our readers even more insights into how high-quality medical aids are used in treatments around the globe. We hope you enjoy the first “merged” edition of Bauerfeind life, which will be published three times a year in German and English.

Speaking of international and diverse, there is one topic that has been at the forefront of our minds for several months: the Summer

Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Once again, we will be there as an exclusive supplier of supports and orthoses, foot orthoses and compression stockings. Our production and logistics staff are currently working flat out to prepare some 9,000 products from more than 40 different ranges for the largest sporting event in the world. During the Olympics, our sports orthotists will support the physicians and physiotherapists working

in the polyclinic at the Olympic Village in order to provide quick and reliable care to athletes.

They will of course be taking all manner of orthoses and supports for stabilizing the

ankle with them to Rio, as the ankle is involved in more sports injuries than any other body part. It’s no coincidence then that we are shining the spotlight on the MalleoLoc ankle orthosis in this edition. Its effectiveness has been demonstrated through studies and, crucially, practical application. Find out more on page 12.

When dealing with sports injuries – and in fact in all areas of treatment – a coherent

team with experience across a range of disciplines is invaluable, for instance when treating patients with diabetic foot syndrome (see page 22) or lymphatic disorders, as our example from Belgium demonstrates (page 30).

I hope you enjoy reading the new edition of Bauerfeind life!

Yours sincerely,

Prof. Hans B. Bauerfeind

“Once again, we will be at the Olympics as an exclusive supplier of supports and orthoses, foot orthoses, and compression stockings.”

FOR A PAIN-FREE PREGNANCYMedical compression stockings improve the flow of blood through the veins and relieve the venous system. This can sig-nificantly alleviate typical symptoms during pregnancy, such as swollen legs, ankle edema and the formation of spider veins. As a maternity pantyhose, VenoTrain micro comes with a particu-larly elastic belly section and is pleasantly soft thanks to its high microfiber content.

BAUERFEIND.COM

VenoTrain® microPleasantly soft thanks to microfibers

»GREAT EXPECTATIONS «

VenoTrain® micro

Medical Compression Stockings

bf_az_gio_schwanger_bf-live_210x280+3_160512.indd 1 25.05.2016 18:19:53

4 life magazine summer 2016

CONTENTS

Ankle therapy: In the balance – p. 16

IMPRINT:

Bauerfeind life Magazine Printed on chlorine-free paper

Editor: Bauerfeind AG Triebeser Straße 16 07937 Zeulenroda-Triebes, Germany Tel. +49(0)36628-66-1000 [email protected] www.bauerfeind.com, www.bauerfeind-life.de

Authors and editorial board for this issue: Jürgen Baden, Kristina Bardele, Astrid Basson, Dr. Uwe Berendt , Martin Däumler, Silvia Dethloff-Kuntze, Bernd Festerling, Eckhard Freund, Simone Gebler, Markus Gerlich, Kirsten Göpel , Markus Gräßer, Tanu Hertel , Birgit Hollnagel , Peggy Kajrjakow, Michael Kießling, Solveig Klamt , Romy Ludwig, Susanne Neubauer, Matthias Overesch, Dr. Gerd Röder, August Sauerhammer, Dr. Rainer Scheuermann, Ashley Sutz, Dr. Hans-Jürgen Thomä, Michael Ullrich, Rico Wagner, Christian Weyer

Publisher and editorial office: mk publishing GmbH Döllgaststraße 7–9, 86199 Augsburg, Germany Tel. +49(0)821-34457-0 [email protected], www.mkpublishing.de

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Balancing act: the ankle is put under exceptional stress on wobbly surfaces, such as here on a treatment unit. Bauerfeind offers a wide range of supports and orthoses to help patients who have suffered ankle injuries.

Focus page 16

16 Ankle therapy In the balance

20 MalleoLoc study Stabilization of the ankle joint verified

21 MalleoLoc ankle orthosis “The right treatment lays the foundations”


CONTENTS

Strain symptoms at the patella – p. 26

Thrombosis prophylaxis – p. 32 Place to be: Singapore – p. 42

3 Editorial

4 Imprint

6 World of Bauerfeind

12 News

48 Contact

50 People

Spinova: Rapid effect – p. 24

Medical page 22

22 Treatment of diabetic foot syndrome Successful network

24 Spinova lumbar orthoses Rapid effect

25 Flexible postoperative care “Some people never take them off again”

26 GenuPoint relieves strain symptoms at the patella “Tendons might not be very sexy, but they are important”

28 GenuTrain P3 active support Versatile knee protection

29 Behind the scenes at the Surf World Cup Made of tough stuff

30 “Het Lymfehuis” in Antwerp/Belgium “ The establishment of a place like this

is long overdue”

32 Compression therapy during pregnancy I “Right away for patients with thrombophilia”

34 Compression therapy during pregnancy II “The level of acceptance is good”

35 VenoTrain micro and VenoTrain soft Targeted relief

Retail page 36

36 Modern measurement technology in the provision of medical aid “A real image boost”

39 Three-zone TRIactive foot orthosis “It virtually sells itself”

Background page 40

40 A medical specialist offers his views on second opinions “Specialist knowledge is a must”

41 A representative from a health insurance provider offers his views on second opinions “An interdisciplinary point of view is helpful”

Place to be page 42

42 A visit to the Lion City Fascinating diversity

Stimulus page 46

46 Brand ambassador Dirk Nowitzki “He’s the perfect fit for us”


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WORLD OF BAUERFEIND


Bella figura on the wakeboard➊ Wakeboarding can be described as a cross between snowboarding, surfing and waterskiing. In any case, 20-year-old Nicolò Caimi from Italy could not imagine any more beautiful sport. The 2012 European champion in wakeboarding loves the combination of speed, complex jumps and maneuvers. He knows from his own experience how hard the sport is on the knees, with all the turns and hard landings on the water after jumps. After winning his championship title, he had to undergo cruciate ligament and meniscus surgery, among other treatments. In 2014, he discovered the GenuTrain S and was convinced right away: “I immediately felt an incredible stability, beyond comparison with any other product. GenuTrain S helps me with movement control and I feel more secure wearing it.” His big goal now is to become world champion. †

WORLD OF BAUERFEIND


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WORLD OF BAUERFEIND

Finish line at Piazza Santa Croce➌ Once again, Bauerfeind Italy will be on hand as a sponsor of the Venice Marathon (October 23, 2016) and the Florence Marathon (November 27, 2016). The Bauerfeind booth will be showcasing the company’s Training and Performance compression socks as well as Train active supports. The Florence Marathon (2015 edition pictured here) is considered one of the most beautiful races of this quite challenging sport. Fiorella Buzzanca, Marketing Manager at Bauerfeind Italy, shares her advice for succeeding at the Venice Marathon: “Save some of your energy for the last two miles, which will take you over Venice’s iconic small bridges ...” †

Fun on the beach in Latvia➋ He first rose to prominence on the indoor courts before transferring his skills to the sand: Latvian volleyball and beach volleyball player Jānis Šmēdiņš is a well-known name on the volleyball scene in Germany and Latvia. He claimed a bronze medal for his country at the Summer Olympic Games in London and won the Beach Volleyball European Championship in Klagenfurt in the summer of 2015. The atmosphere was somewhat more relaxed a few weeks later in Jūrmala, a resort in the Gulf of Riga (pictured), where Jānis was setting and passing the ball while wearing a GenuTrain on his knee and enjoying the relief and stabilization provided by the active support. †


WORLD OF BAUERFEIND

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11

OTWorld: a great showcase for Bodytronic ID:CAM

Isokinetic Conference in London

➍ A total of 21,000 visitors from more than 80 countries, as well as approximately 550 exhibiting companies, make OTWorld in Leipzig, Germany, the world’s leading trade show for prosthetics, orthotics, orthopedic footwear, compression therapy, and technical rehabilitation. Naturally, Bauerfeind had a presence at the event at the beginning of May. The company’s stand provided information on the Bauerfeind product portfolio, and especially Bodytronic ID:CAM, which helps ensure precise and rapid production of milled foot orthoses. Visitors to the Bauerfeind stand were able to test this new Web application by modeling foot orthoses, which were milled there and then. †

➎ The Isokinetic Medical Group is dedicated to the treatment of sports injuries, orthopedic rehabilitation, and associated research activities. In April 2016, physicians and physiotherapists met in London for the 25th Isokinetic Conference, which focused on medical strategies for soccer injuries under the motto “Return to Play.” Bauerfeind UK and Bauerfeind Italy were on hand at the accompanying industry exhibition to provide information on various possibilities for using medical aids in the treatment of athletes. †


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NEWS

Bauerfeind’s new line of sports products

Driven by a passion for sport

The new product line is designed for athletes who want their movements to feel safe and secure and are looking for ways to optimize their performance. They have been developed based on Bauerfeind’s medical expertise and many years of experience in treating top athletes.

Vitalizing: Sports Compression LineThe Sports Compression Line features compression clothing made from breathable high-tech microfibers. It includes sleeves for arms and for upper and lower legs and Run & Walk compression socks especially for endurance sports. Their medical compression technology stimulates circulation, thus improving the transport of oxygen around the muscle. Ball & Racket compression socks for ball sports boast impressive zone-specific compression, meaning pressure is applied where “stop-and-go” sports need it most: on the ankle and the calf.

Stabilizing: Sports Support LineThe supports in the Sports Support Line improve ankle, knee and elbow movement and strengthen the back. Their anatomically contoured knitted fabric is a fine and airy net mesh that surrounds the body like a second skin. The special 3D Airknit Technology makes the supports particularly light , maximizing their effectiveness during movement , while their knitted fabric and incorporated pads massage the relevant body part.

Alongside supports, the line also includes special products like the Sports Knee Strap and the Sports Elbow Strap. By applying targeted pressure to the patellar tendon or the forearm muscles, they provide relief and thus counteract high loads. The Sports Elbow Brace helps to control the quick force release of the arm better and protect the elbows from hyperextension.

Bauerfeind is expanding its range of products to include a sports line featuring supports, compression clothing, and foot orthoses for sports shoes. The product line unites a passion for exercise with the trend toward self-optimization, especially in running and team sports.

Anna Hahner is a Bauerfeind brand ambassador for compression and supports.

The flexible orthotic core with integrated Weightflex-X supports and guides the foot from underneath.

Further information

www.bauerfeind-sports.com (website in German and English) The products will initially be available in Germany, Austria, the Benelux region, the USA, and China. If you are interested in the sports product line: email: [email protected]; service hotline: +49 (0)800-001 05 70. Customers from the USA should contact the service hotline: 1-800-423-3405; email: [email protected]; www.bauerfeind.com/b2c/

The light and airy knitted fabric makes the sports supports extremely comfort-able to wear.

Supportive: Sports Insole LineThe three foot orthoses in the Sports Insole Line produce a precise load-balancing effect. The Run & Walk, Ball & Racket and Ski & Skate versions protect , cushion, and guide the foot’s movement , thus offsetting loads that can have a long-term negative impact on the knees, hips and back.


NEWS

The final countdown to Rio 2016

Bauerfeind will have moved into its orthopedic service station in the Olympic Village long before the Summer Games are officially opened at the legendary Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro on August 5. As was the case for the 2010, 2012 and 2014 Olympic Games, the company is once again an exclusive supplier of supports and orthoses, foot orthoses and compression stockings at this year’s Olympics. But that’s not all: a team of experienced sports orthotists will also be working in close cooperation with physicians and physiotherapists in the polyclinic of the Olympic Village. The ideal product for the athlete will be selected and then customized with the aid of modern measurement technology.

Global forum for expertsProviding medical treatment to people involved in the Olympics is undoubtedly a special challenge. At the second International Sports Medicine Congress and customer events from August 3 to 23, Bauerfeind will be providing an insight into working with top athletes. The scientific program for the congress will focus on the ankle, knee, elbow and back care areas. Alongside prevention and rehabilitation in the context of sporting injuries, the program also covers the latest

At the 31st Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Bauerfeind will once again be on hand as an expert partner to provide medical aids to athletes. The company will also be hosting the second International Sports Medicine Congress for physicians in the city overlooked by Sugarloaf Mountain.

Bauerfeind at the Summer Olympic Games

methods of treating injuries and strains. Experts and practitioners from different countries will have the opportunity to come together to exchange experiences and treatment strategies. “It’s not often that you have the opportunity to get right up close to elite sport , with such a wide array of athletes, coaches and medical support teams from different disciplines. At the congress, participants will be able to experience the sporting world and hear individual ideas about how injuries occur, enabling them to get involved in the entire treatment chain,” says Dr. Stefan Klima, scientific director of the second International Sports Medicine

Congress, which will be taking place at the ABBR (Associação Brasileira Beneficente de Reabilitação), the oldest rehabilitation clinic in Rio de Janeiro. “The aura that surrounds the Olympics is unique and will be felt at our congress too,” asserts Dr. Klima.A great number of Bauerfeind customers from the fields of orthopedic technology and medical retail will also have the opportunity to get in on the action and gain insights into the world of medical treatment , for instance on a visit to the German and Austrian Houses, in discussions with staff at Olympic medical facilities, and at meetings with athletes. †

The Maracanã stadium was built for the 1950 FIFA World Cup.

Rio de Janeiro is the first South American city to host the Olympic Games.


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NEWS

ManuTrain wrist support

When wrists become painful , the ManuTrain support can help. Since April , a blue donning aid has been provided in every pack. This practical addition saves time and energy when putting on the support , since the hand and forearm slide between two slim layers as with a glove. The ManuTrain thus surrounds the wrist more quickly and massages it when it moves. Two anatomically contoured pads protect nerves and protruding bones against pressure peaks in a targeted way. The new donning aid makes everyday treatment easier every time you use it. Its easy-care material is especially tear-resistant. It is very thin, weighing only a few grams. A donning aid also comes as standard with all our ankle supports with a closed heel. †

Now with donning aid

New: GloboTec Comfort “Style” hallux foot orthosis

At the early signs of hallux rigidus, the new GloboTec Comfort “Style” hallux foot orthosis relieves the strain on the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe without completely limiting mobility. In order to achieve this, the integrated, long-sole reinforcement element is less rigid and has a special relief on the lateral side. The cutouts in the outer region of the toes are designed to direct the gait pattern toward the outside of the foot in the last phase, relieving the strain on the painful area. The padded cushion layer, which also has a long-sole design, ensures optimum wearing

comfort. In addition, the hallux foot orthosis from the GloboTec Comfort “Style” range is lighter and smaller than similar orthoses for this condition. It is fully thermoformable and can therefore be adjusted to perfectly meet patients’ needs. †

Flexible hallux rigidus foot orthosis

VenoTrain micro design edition

The VenoTrain micro design edition thigh-high stockings are now available with the new “Sensitive” silicone lace band. Its ultra-thin, continuous silicone coating sticks to the skin better and guarantees a secure fit during movement. The highly elastic, flexible material adapts to the wearer’s thigh circumference. This prevents the stockings from becoming too tight and helps avoid skin irritation. The high degree of elasticity means this silicone lace band no longer needs to be produced in both a regular and wide size, making the compression stockings easier to order and store. The VenoTrain micro design edition is available in all standard and fashion colors in either the “Tango” double-stripe pattern or the “Jive” striped cable-knit design. †

New silicone lace band with increased elasticity

Put the support on in no time with the donning aid for the ManuTrain.

The highly elastic “Sensitive” silicone lace band.

Perceptible relief for hallux rigidus.

VenoTrain act

Medical aids

DIARY DATES

With the new floor display, counter display, and brochure, retailers can now show off VenoTrain act support stockings in their best light. In conjunction with the introduction of these new display options, Bauerfeind is running the following offers for its retailers in Germany: order 12 pairs of stockings and receive if requested a free counter display. Or: buy 30 pairs of stockings and receive a free floor display and VenoTrain act sheer elegance color sample ring on request. While stocks last.VenoTrain act is a well-being product for health-conscious customers. The stockings prevent heavy and tired legs, and are recommended for people who have to sit or stand a lot or are planning to take a long flight. VenoTrain act is available in three versions – the fashionably transparent , full-fashioned “sheer elegance” stocking, the classic “cotton active” knee-high stocking, and the modern “microfiber active” knee-high stocking with a high microfiber content. †

General practitioners and internists in Germany can now use a prescription information card that is specifically tailored to their daily business, making it easier to prescribe the correct product. On the card, they will find a selection of supports, orthoses, foot orthoses

and compression stockings that they can prescribe by name for common conditions. This will also

benefit patients, as they will receive treatment more quickly. The medical products can be prescribed without any budgetary constraints and can be combined with other measures such as injections into the joint or physiotherapy. The compact , handy prescription information card fits perfectly in a jacket pocket , features a tab for fast searching, and lists each product along with its indications and the associated medical product number in the directory of statutory health insurance schemes. More information on prescriptions with no budgetary constraints can be found in the document published by the manufacturers’ federation eurocom e. V., “Die Verordnung von Hilfsmitteln in der vertragsärztlichen Versorgung” [Prescribing medical products in statutory healthcare]. †

Displayed in their best light

New prescription information cards for general practitioners and internists


September 2016

September 1–3, 2016

7th Zeulenroda Congress for Orthopedics & Sports Orthopedics, Zeulenroda-Triebes, Germany, www.zeulenrodaer-kongress.de


17th Three-Country Conference of the German, Austrian and Swiss Societies of Angiology in conjunction with the 58th Annual Conference of the German Society of Phlebology (DGP), Dresden, Germany, www.angio-phlebo-logie-2016.net


40th Annual Congress of the German Society of Lymphology, Hof, Germany, www.lymphologie-kongress.de

September 30–October 1, 2016

Joint DGSP-DGPR Congress for Sports Medicine and Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation, Frankfurt am Main, Germany, www.gib-dem-risiko-keine-chance.de

October 2016

October 20–23, 2016

17th Congress of the Asian Society for Vascular Surgery (ASVS) and 11th Asian Venous Forum, Singapore, www.asvs2016.com

October 25–28, 2016

German Congress of Orthopedics and Traumatology (DKOU), Berlin, Germany, www.dkou.org

November 2016

November 11–12, 2016

33rd Trauma Surgery Seminar of the DGUV, Mainz, Germany, www.dguv.de/landesverbaende

December 2016

December 1–3, 2016

11th German Spine Congress – Annual Conference of the German Spine Society (DWG), Hanover, Germany, www.dwg-kongress.de

Attractive eye-catcher: the new floor display for VenoTrain act.


FOCUS

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Conservative, functional treatment is the established route in cases of ankle injury, but opinion is often divided when it comes to specific measures. With recurrence rates startlingly high, one treatment step has come into focus – stabilization of the joint to counteract supination. Orthoses reduce inversion movements and enable controlled loading of the ankle. Their effectiveness has been demonstrated through studies and practical application.

In the balanceAnkle therapy

>>>

The numbers speak for themselves: 40 percent of all sports injuries involve the same part of the body – the ankle. By far the most common one is lateral twisting of the foot , also known as spraining, which usually affects the lateral capsular ligaments. Sprains are prevalent outside of sport too, ranking among the most frequent everyday injuries. It is no coincidence that sprains are so common.


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The ankle acts as the body’s outpost and, ultimately, makes walking and running possible. The interaction between the upper and lower parts of the ankle is what drives the forward motion, as the foot is lifted, lowered and rotated. The upper ankle in particular is extremely susceptible to injury. The parts that form the ankle joint – the talus, fibula and tibia – are subjected to a great deal of stress. When standing, a person’s full body weight bears down on this hinge joint , while running or jumping can create a load on the joint structure that is equal to three or four times the person’s body weight.

Evening out impactThe forces that arise during walking, running and jumping are directed through a structure that is both complex and fragile. Nature has built a considerable degree of sturdiness into the ankle. Normally, a compact joint capsule firmly holds the functional upper and lower parts together, secured by strong ligaments. However, if the foot tilts, everything changes. Just a few millimeters in the wrong direction and you end up with a sprain. The capsule ligaments, which are normally so strong, are suddenly very weak when the foot first makes contact with the ground in the wrong position.

The leverage forces are tremendous, as Olaf Hinze found out the hard way. The 46-year-old was playing indoor football with his teammates when it happened to him. “I was just about to start dribbling the ball ,” says the amateur footballer, reliving the fateful moment. “The problem was, my left foot didn’t want to come with me.” The consequence of this delay was a classic football injury – supination trauma, the most common form of sprain.

Combating recurring injuryThis was the first time that Olaf Hinze had sprained his ankle, which is unusual for someone his age. Supination trauma is so common that lack of attention to this injury and its dangers is a widespread problem – especially when it comes to considering the risk of the injury recurring. Statistics have shown that almost one third of all people who have sprained their ankle still suffer from chronic complaints in the form of new

FOCUS

>>>

Barely anything to see during sonography: Olaf Hinze being checked over by Dr. Sven Authorsen two weeks after the sprain.

It’s very important to the physician that the MalleoLoc fits perfectly. Patient Olaf Hinze appreciates the feeling of security that the orthosis gives him.


sprains or persistent instability years after the initial injury (see reference 1). There is also a significant risk of osteoarthritis. However, at the moment when the injury occurs, there is a more pressing concern. The thought that ran through Olaf Hinze’s head was “I hope the ligaments don’t tear.” They were indeed fine, but the physician’s diagnosis after the MRI scan was little consolation for the amateur footballer from Velbert: “First-to second-degree sprain, distension of the posterior talofibular ligament , normal anterior talofibular ligament , clear lateral bleeding into the subcutaneous fatty tissue.”

Not a trivial injuryThe injury that football enthusiast Olaf sustained for the first time is all too common to his treating orthopedist , Dr. Sven Authorsen. “Every week, we see around three to four sprains in our practice,” says the specialist in orthopedics and trauma surgery who works in Heiligenhaus, near Essen, Germany. “One misstep is all it takes,” says Dr. Authorsen (see also the interview on p. 21). “People of all ages come to us with sprains of varying degrees of severity,” he adds. “Sometimes the ligaments are intact , sometimes they’re only torn slightly, and sometimes there’s a major tear, but usually they’re significantly distended.” According to this physician, one factor is especially important when it comes to treatment: time. More precisely, the time that has elapsed between the injury and adequate initial treatment. Time and again, Dr. Authorsen sees patients who have waited too long because they didn’t think it was necessary to seek medical care. “If I can reduce the swelling early on, then I can progress to the next stage of treatment relatively quickly,” says the orthopedist. “This allows me to take effective action against the risk of the injury recurring.” On the evening of his accident , Olaf Hinze followed the rule familiar to all footballers – RICE (Rest , Ice, Compression, Elevation) – before going straight to Dr. Authorsen the next morning. Because the swelling was moderate, the physician didn’t have to use a tape bandage and simply prescribed the MalleoLoc orthosis. Dr. Authorsen often opts for this ankle orthosis when treating his patients in order to expedite the rehabilitation phase, which involves the early stages of functional therapy, while preventing a new sprain. “Compared to other orthoses, it has the great advantage that its sole is rigid too, which provides a good amount of stability

FOCUS

Ref. 1: Hubbard TJ, Hicks-Little CA. Ankle ligament healing after an acute ankle sprain: an evidence-based approach. J Athl Train. 2008 Sept-Oct; 43(5):523-9.

Test passed: standing on one leg on a soft surface requires a stable ankle in order to keep one’s balance.

for counteracting supination,” says the physician. It can be used with or without shoes – “The patient can even wear it in the shower or while sleeping.”

Crash mat as a training surfaceSleeping in the MalleoLoc is exactly what Olaf Hinze did, at least for the first night , because it provided such a feeling of security. The next day, the IT project manager went about his daily business as usual in the office, wearing the orthosis in his shoe. “I was pleased to have it ,” he says. “Without its support , I wouldn’t have been able to walk around visiting my colleagues, or get up the stairs.” Two weeks after he sprained his

ankle, Olaf is back at Dr. Authorsen’s practice for a follow-up appointment – and there is barely any swelling or bruising to be seen. The patient stands with both his feet on a crash mat. The physician explains that this is to help him see how it feels to tilt his ankle again and to start regaining some stability. To illustrate his point , the orthopedist throws a pen to Olaf, who catches it deftly, with just a hint of strain in his smile – and the MalleoLoc on his left foot. This patient looks to be well prepared for his upcoming physiotherapy. As for a repeat injury? Not a chance. †


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The Institute of Sport and Sport Science at the University of Freiburg, Germany, has conducted a controlled laboratory study into the stabilizing effect of the MalleoLoc ankle orthosis. Test subjects with unilateral chronic ankle instability wore the orthosis in a simulated injury scenario. The study showed that the MalleoLoc reduces the extent of simulated inversion movements and thus protects the upper ankle joint from damaging supination without restricting the patient‘s normal gait (see reference 2).

MalleoLoc: freedom for the ankle

Among other things, the MalleoLoc ankle orthosis can be used to treat capsular ligament strains and ligament ruptures caused by mild to severe sprains. The orthosis protects against further spraining and relieves the outer ligaments. The combination of an asymmetric frame and a specially designed Velcro strap system stabilizes the upper ankle and counteracts any talar shifting. The MalleoLoc allows a high degree of freedom of movement. It enables a natural heel-to-toe movement of the foot both with and without shoes. Plantar flexion and dorsal extension are not restricted. A plantar guide in the lateral sole region stimulates the dorsiflexion muscles (particularly the tibialis anterior and peroneus longus muscles) via

Ref. 2: Gehring D, et al. Expecting ankle tilts and wearing an ankle brace influence joint control in an imitated ankle sprain mechanism during walking. Gait Posture (2013). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2013.11.016

Stabilization of the ankle joint verifiedMalleoLoc study

The results showed that a reduction in the maximum joint inversion and the inversion speed was achieved with the orthosis. The reduction is more pronounced when the injury scenario is not anticipated. In the simulation of the sprain movement , the orthosis did not restrict plantar flexion and thus had no impact on the normal gait. “This study is the first to investigate the extent to which an orthosis affects the biomechanics of the simulated injury mechanism of a supination trauma when a person is

walking,” says study director Dr. Dominic Gehring. “The results clearly show that the MalleoLoc orthosis can provide functional stability to the ankle in a situation that could cause injury. This explains why injury rates can be significantly reduced through the application of semirigid orthoses.” †

the sensorimotor receptors. This accelerates the engagement of the muscles, bringing the foot into a neutral position more quickly. Thanks to the anatomical shape of the talus, this position provides greater protection for the upper ankle than a position of plantar flexion. This approach uses sensorimotor function to achieve effective, long-term stabilization that counteracts supination, which may help to prevent spraining and supination trauma. The mobilization function of the MalleoLoc makes it especially suited to early functional treatment of the lateral ligaments. †

MalleoLoc fits snugly on the foot and can be worn without difficulty

in almost any sturdy shoe.

When the orthosis is worn and the test subjects are not anticipating the injury scenario, the angle of maximum joint inversion and the inversion speed are both reduced.

Results (selection):

Inversion with max. angle

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Max. speed of inversion

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MalleoLoc ankle orthosis

What factors are crucial when treating a sprain?Dr. Authorsen: Whether or not it becomes a serious injury is down to the therapist. The high rate of recurring injury shows that many sprains do not heal to a satisfactory degree. This is why we must think about stabilizing the joint right from the outset. If I choose the right treatment straightaway, I also lay the right foundations for the next stage. The MalleoLoc is a great example of this.

How does the ankle orthosis work?Dr. Authorsen: It can be adapted to the patient’s body shape, ensuring a good fit – which is a fundamental requirement if a repeat injury is to be avoided. I make absolutely certain that it fits properly. What’s important is that the orthosis allows me to focus on functional treatment at an early stage and vary the load that the joint is subjected to. You can also do this with a tape bandage, but it’s much more difficult. I usually instruct patients to wear the MalleoLoc for three weeks. During this time, the rigid sole of the orthosis also stimulates the sensorimotor function of plantar flexion, which is an important preventive tool. Afterwards, I recommend the MalleoTrain for six weeks. This supports proprioception during movement. After that , patients come in for a final check-up.

There is often a very long time between a person sustaining an injury and a physician treating them. What can you do to prevent this?Dr. Authorsen: It’s not always the fault of the unsuspecting patient who thinks that such a minor injury will get better quickly. The notorious slump in people seeing physicians at the weekend is often the problem. By the time someone has had to go to the emergency room, the horse has usually already bolted.

Clinics are rarely equipped to deal with such injuries, either in terms of staff or equipment. An ointment dressing prescribed by a first-year assistant physician cannot be considered adequate treatment. And there are never any functional aids at these clinics. This means that the swelling lasts longer, prolonging the healing phase unnecessarily. The main problem here is that waiting three days to start proper treatment adds three weeks onto the overall recovery time.

Ankle injuries are not to be taken lightly – Dr. Sven Authorsen is sure of that. The orthopedist stresses the importance of rapid, adequate treatment that prevents further injury in the case of a sprain. For him, orthoses are the foundation upon which recovery is built.

“ The right treatment lays the foundations”

How important is prevention?Dr. Authorsen: It plays a vital role and is something we should be teaching even to children. This is something that the German Professional Association of Orthopedic Surgeons has recognized. Physicians like me visit schools and take a close look at pupils’ feet. If someone has a weak foot or ankle, solutions such as foot orthoses with proprioceptive action can help to build a healthy defense against sprains. †

Dr. Sven Authorsen in his orthopedic practice in Heiligenhaus, Germany.


MEDICAL

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Treatment of diabetic foot syndrome

Successful network“What happens to people with diabetic foot syndrome depends on the efficiency of local structures,” says Dr. Peter Mauckner. Patients in the Cologne/Leverkusen metropolitan area are lucky in this regard, as Mauckner, a diabetes specialist , and several of his colleagues have established an extremely successful network in the region.

A missed target and a somewhat shocking study – those were the two driving forces that accelerated the establishment of the Netzwerk Diabetischer Fuß Köln und Umgebung e.V. (www.fussnetz-koeln.de). The St. Vincent Declaration of 1989 had called for a 50-percent reduction in the number of diabetes-related amputations in Europe within five years. “When the Leverkusen Amputation Reduction Study1 was released in 2000, it became disturbingly clear to us that we were extremely far from achieving the target in Germany,” says Dr. Peter Mauckner, Chief Senior Physician for Diabetology at St. Remigius Hospital in the Opladen district of Leverkusen. “At the same time, no one realized that the relevant figures for Germany, which when extrapolated would amount to 30,000 amputations per year, were actually pretty good.”2 Still , Germany as a whole was suddenly taking a closer look at the “bad situation” in Leverkusen. “And

we in Leverkusen couldn’t stand idly by, of course,” Mauckner explains. That’s because the specialists in Cologne/Leverkusen had already been looking for ways to improve the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers for quite some time.

Binding structural quality“It was clear that without intensive interdisciplinary cooperation, we would not be able to get diabetes-related secondary diseases under control ,” says Mauckner. Together with a group of medical colleagues, he therefore launched a painstaking and groundbreaking initiative for creating structural and process-related quality standards for everyone involved in the treatment of diabetics. This was no easy task, particularly because the concept also meant incorporating professionals from many different sectors and disciplines into the project. “A key player in this respect

was and remains the family physician, as it’s important to get general practitioners to find diabetes patients and direct them to the network,” Mauckner explains. “However, we managed to do this very successfully with

the help of training sessions and periodic quality workshops. We also developed our own control component in the form of coordinating physicians. In other words, we have doctors for both the inpatient and outpatient side of things who assume overall responsibility for the treatment of individual diabetes patients and coordinate

“The amputation rate in our Netzwerk Diabetischer Fuß was 72 percent lower than the general rate.”

(Dr. Peter Mauckner)

The coordinating physician collects all the information on patient treatments.


all the associated steps. For example, the coordinating physician at our hospital , St. Remigius, is the internist.” With this kind of setup, hospitalized patients are not sent from one department to another; instead, each member of the network visits patients directly at their beds, while the coordinating physician is responsible for all the documentation. “Documentation is very important to us,” says Mauckner. “For example, we all agreed to implement a clear and understandable system of mandatory documentation of all results. This was not just important for us and the patients; it also gave us leverage during the tough but ultimately successful negotiations we conducted to obtain initial funding for the network from the health insurance providers.” The provider companies wanted to make sure that the network would generate cost-saving potential. “Thanks to our extensive documentation, we were able to demonstrate that the amputation rate in our Netzwerk Diabetischer Fuß was 72 percent lower than the general rate,” says Mauckner. Moreover, the rate of major amputations (above the ankle) declined to approximately two percent. By comparison, the average for Germany as a whole is eight percent.

Applying expertise in a targeted mannerNetwork members include diabetologists, surgeons, angiologists, podologists, and

MEDICAL

1 Trautner C, Haastert B, Spraul M, et al. Unchanged incidence of lower-limb amputations in a German City, 1990-1998. Diabetes Care. 2001 May; 24(5):855-9. 2 In February 2016, the German Diabetes Association (DDG) cited a figure of approximately 50,000 diabetes-related foot amputations that were being performed each year.

orthotists. The key aspect of a network arrangement is that everyone does what they reasonably can (but no more) when called upon, and then enlists the help of the respective specialist. “Everyone in the network has an equal standing,” Mauckner explains. “Consider the case of a surgeon who performs highly specialized operations such as bypasses or flap transplantations. As soon as the patient is ‘let loose,’ the most important individual is now the podologist , whose job is to determine whether calluses have formed on the patient’s foot. If this is the case, the patient is then quickly sent to the family physician or the coordinating physician in order to get a foot orthosis prescribed that will ease the pressure.” And speaking of foot orthoses: “One of the main cost issues when treating diabetes patients involves the extensive use of custom-made orthopedic shoes, which isn’t always helpful. Because the family physicians and podologists in our network are aware of this issue, we can now get to patients at a very early stage and prescribe a soft cushioning foot orthosis to relieve the pressure. We’ve also moved away from the full-layer hard foot orthoses common in the Chantelau era, although these represented a very innovative and pioneering approach at the time. Today, we prefer more extensive pressure distribution and offer treatment based on PG 31.03.07 – making

use of the transverse and lengthways arches of the foot and combining this approach with possibilities for local pressure relief.” Still , regardless of whether it’s custom or ready-made shoes with sole reinforcement and a suitable foot orthosis, the important thing is to check both the foot and the medical aid on a regular basis in order to identify changes and respond to them before they become problematic.

Second opinions prior to amputationsIn order to further reduce the amputation rate for diabetic feet , the network also launched a major media campaign on second opinions several years ago. Even today, the network offers non-network hospitals the possibility to obtain an independent opinion within two days on whether a planned amputation is actually necessary or if other options are feasible. “The hospitals frequently take advantage of this service because our process quality is now justiciable,” Mauckner explains. “Unfortunately, one problem remains – namely the fact that you can still make a lot of money with amputations.” †

Diabetologist Dr. Peter Mauckner.

Softly cushionedErgoPad Soft

ErgoPad Soft is suitable for, among others, diabetics in risk class 0 and groups at risk of suffering from diabetes. The foot orthosis creates a comfortably soft bed for your feet and provides durable cushioning thanks to its specially developed polyurethane-based Vepur soft foam pad. The material is visco-elastic, which means your feet will mold the orthosis into a comfortable shape while you wear it. ErgoPad Soft has excellent shape retention: the foam always returns to its original shape without manipulation. The soft cushioning foot orthoses there-fore offer guaranteed long-lasting shock absorption and excellent wearing comfort in the long term. The foot orthosis is thermo-

formable, allowing it to be optimally adapted to the foot. The ErgoPad Soft orthotic blank is available in a soft or firm version, with or without a microfiber top cover. †

The foot orthosis displays a high degree of shape retention, thanks to its Vepur soft foam pad.


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MEDICAL

Spinova lumbar orthoses

The decision to enter a new segment with the development of a complete system of innovative back orthoses was a courageous move. Three years on, Spinova lumbar orthoses have become a fixture in the medical supply sector.

Rapid effect

The back is a highly sensitive part of the body – and no one is more aware of this fact than physicians and their patients. But another group of professionals knows all about the healthcare challenges that the lumbar region presents: product developers and orthopedic technicians possess a wealth of experience of care requirements for the lower spine region. Physicians prescribing treatment rightfully expect that the therapeutic devices they select will enable them to tailor their care to the individual needs of their patients. But care solutions that meet the needs of the therapist while also boasting high levels of patient acceptance are few and far between.

Systematic straighteningIn this context , the feedback forthcoming from the Lake Constance region of Germany is all

the more pleasing. The medical supply retailer Trapp, headquartered in Friedrichshafen, was one of the very first retailers to use Spinova. The latest modifications made to the product line are thanks, in part , to feedback from the company, which boasts the largest network of branches in the Lake Constance area. “Bauerfeind is a perfect fit for our modern and high-quality range,” says Managing Director

Daniel Trapp. “We’ve been using the products for a long time and know that we can rely on them.” In return, he adds, Trapp knows that its ideas and suggestions will be taken on board. René Feldmann is a product expert who works closely with the customer, and the orthopedic technician is responsible for modifying Spinova for Trapp. “Back patients are in a great deal of pain,” explains the experienced technical expert. “When I tell the customer about the system and adapt it to suit them for the very first time, I’m always astounded by what I see,” says René Feldmann: “With each incremental adjustment , the patients sit in a more upright position. They no longer need to evade the pain. The more stability they are given, the more relief they feel.”

More options for follow-up treatmentA few turns of the integrated adjustment screws is usually all it takes to achieve a perfectly fitted Spinova system, based on the specifications of the prescribing physician. A Torx screwdriver is often the most important tool in René Feldmann’s kit. The technician uses the tool to adjust the power of the vari-able tensioning strap system, which is fitted precisely over the individual segments of the spine. “Just a few turns is all it takes for me to see a rapid effect in posture correction.” While for some, the solution serves as a fast method of confirming the effect of the work done with a patient , for others, it opens up brand new treatment opportunities: “When I can use the tensioning strap system to

“Bauerfeind is a perfect fit for our modern and high-quality range. We know that we can rely on the products.”

(Daniel Trapp)

Daniel Trapp, Managing Director of medical supply retailer Trapp in Friedrichshafen.

Torx screwdriver, bridging frame, tensioning strap system: three key elements used to adjust the lumbar orthosis Spinova Unload Plus.


manipulate different regions of the spine, I have more options for follow-up treatment at my disposal ,” explains Dr. Thomas Benz. The neurosurgeon operates on many intervertebral disk patients at the Lake Constance Spinal Center in Friedrichshafen.

High pulling powerRené Feldmann also often works with physi-cians’ prescriptions at his Friedrichshafen clinic and local hospitals. The orthotist helps patients at these clinics to familiarize them-selves with Spinova. “I take my time when showing patients how to use the system. It takes however long it takes to adjust a back orthosis,” he emphasizes, without compro-mise. “The process also involves a trial fitting. Once we’re happy with the orthosis itself, we get to work with the patient. The patient must be able to put on the orthosis correctly by themselves.” René Feldmann is satisfied only when the patient is able to put on and remove their Spinova independently. This is possible for the vast majority of people – even older patients with limited gripping ability. The new belt fastening makes it easier to put on and secure the orthosis. In addition to the wide-ranging functionality of the Spinova product line, Daniel Trapp has identified a further advantage of the lumbar orthoses: “Their contemporary design appeals to our customers,” says the Managing Direc-tor. “The back orthoses are chic, modern and eye-catching. They could almost pass as a sports accessory.” Spinova – a tool with pull-ing power. †

MEDICAL

How does Spinova help you?Dr. Benz: Our intervertebral disk patients wear Spinova Unload Plus after surgery – usu-ally for three weeks. The bridging frame of the orthosis reduces lordosis in the lumbar spine and also lowers the strain it’s subjected to. Some patients never want to take the orthosis off again because they feel secure in it. We actually recommend that they wear it when

“ Some people never take them off again”

Flexible postoperative care

Neurosurgeon Dr. Thomas Benz and his team perform some 700 operations per year at the Spine Center in the Friedrichshafen Clinic on Lake Constance, Germany. Many patients are given Spinova orthoses after surgery.

Neurosurgeon Dr. Thomas Benz, Friedrichshafen, Germany.

Even more user-friendly

The Spinova range of lumbar orthoses opens up a comprehensive range of treatment options for the lower spine. The orthoses relieve the lumbar vertebrae, helping to alleviate back pain. The unique high-precision, adjustable tensioning strap system is a key element of the solution, featuring height adjustment and targeted force application. The entire Spinova system is made from light , breathable materials. Back patients now benefit from a whole series of new systematic

hiking or working in the garden. The option to remove parts of the orthosis makes it easy for patients to gradually regain their mobility.

What’s the most important thing about Spinova in your opinion?Dr. Benz: The tensioning strap system enables individualized treatments. The system meets the demands associated with flexibility and good adaptability, and I can also use it with different types of patients, including spondylodesis pa-tients, who need to remain completely immobile. Spinova Immo Plus is the product of choice in the latter case. However, it doesn’t really matter whether or not I’m satisfied with the orthosis; the important thing is that the patients are sat-isfied, and my patients like the modern materials and the fact that the orthosis is easy to put on. Besides that , Spinova also looks good! †

developments: the new belt fastening makes the orthosis easier to put on and take off, while side holders for the tensioning straps make it easier for patients to grasp the ends and ensure a secure fit. The removal of individual elements, now including the shell , is a quick process that requires no tools. The new Coolmax® mesh cover for the shell of the Spinova Immo Plus improves wearing comfort. All of these innovations make Spinova orthoses even more user-friendly in day-to-day applications. †


the pain occurs immediately after exercising or even at the start of exercise, generally disappearing again after a warm-up period. The symptoms should be taken seriously as pain can become persistent in the advanced stages and affect activities of everyday life, e.g. climbing stairs. In the case of patellar

The patellar tendon helps to control and protect the knee. However, its complex protection mechanism also makes it particularly susceptible to strain injuries. The patella connects the upper and lower leg. The tendon of the quadriceps muscle, which is the largest muscle in the human body, extends directly over the patella from the thigh to the tibia. This makes the patella the pivot point for levering the force of the thigh muscle and increases its effect. The patellar tendon transmits this force to the lower leg. Particularly vigorous, repetitive strain can lead to microtraumas, which can have a dramatic impact. The morphology of the irritated patellar tendon changes, with partial thickening as one of the consequences. This results in stabbing pains at the apex of the patella and causes physiological dysfunctions that alter the flow of movement in the knee joint.

“Jumper’s knee” hurts when you jump – and hurts even more when you landIt is telling that the strain syndrome “jumper’s knee” predominantly affects athletes who are constantly jumping. For long jumpers and volleyball players in particular, jumping puts a huge tensile load on the patellar tendon where the tendon and bone meet and landing is almost more intense. Other athletes whose sports involve a lot of jumping, such as basketball players and high jumpers, also suffer from the symptoms associated with chronic irritation of the patellar tendon. Irritation can occur in various areas of the patellar tendon: the attachment point at the tibia, the attachment site at the muscle above the patella, or directly at its site of origin, namely the apex of the patella. This third site is the most common and this is also known as patellar tendinopathy. “Jumper’s knee” patients describe pain related to activity. Depending on the stage of the condition,

tendinopathy, the condition can often become chronic. The athlete risks having to take long periods of time off from training and competing if treatment is delayed or inadequate. In the worst case scenario, they may have to give up their sport altogether. An early diagnosis with the help of medical

GenuPoint relieves strain symptoms at the patella

Stabbing pains below the kneecap are characteristic of patellar tendinopathy. A study conducted by Dr. Hans Zwerver from the Netherlands shows that the new GenuPoint patellar tendon support can reduce discomfort.

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MEDICAL

Dr. Hans Zwerver from the Center for Sports Medicine at the University of Groningen.


imaging is vital for a successful recovery from patellar tendinopathy.

The study shows that patients experience less pain with GenuTrain “There is still some uncertainty about the causes, risk factors, and prevention of patellar tendinopathy,” says Dr. Hans Zwerver from the Center for Sports Medicine at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. The tall sports physician, himself a former top basketball player, knows what he is talking about. At the Universitair Medisch Centrum Groningen (the University Medical Centre Groningen or UMCG), he and his team, including doctoral student Astrid de Vries, are researching the very condition that affected the physician during his sporting career: “jumper’s knee.” One possible therapeutic approach is use of the new GenuPoint patellar tendon support from Bauerfeind. “We tested the support in a study,” the tendon expert reports, “and the results were significant.” During the course of the study, various stress tests, both with and without the support , were performed on 29 athletes who had been suffering from strain symptoms for an average period of 14 months. The average age of the participants was 23 and the majority of them were volleyball players. After the tests, they answered questions about their symptoms. The participants were able to rate the severity of their pain on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) from 0 (no pain) to 100 (worst pain imaginable). The results were clear: 70 percent of the participants had fewer symptoms when wearing the GenuPoint support. “They didn’t jump further or higher with the support ,” explains Astrid de Vries, emphasizing that the results relate to reducing symptoms and not to enhancing performance.

The GenuPoint relieves and stimulates the patellar tendonThe GenuPoint patellar tendon support has a special pad to take pressure off the patellar tendon attachment point. As such, the narrow support is able to alleviate strain symptoms. The anatomically contoured GenuPoint support also features a crescent-shaped cutout at the lower patellar attachment point. Its special , integrated pad has four

pressure points which apply force to the area around the patellar tendon. Friction nubs boost this targeted compression, massage the knee during movement , and stimulate the tendon. “As with all strain injuries, prevention is the best treatment ,” Dr. Zwerver

MEDICAL

stresses. “This is important because the pain only occurs quite late on with patellar tendinopathy.” The sports physician identifies some convincing advantages of the GenuPoint support compared to sports tape, which could be seen for a long time around the tennis player Rafael Nadal’s knee, for example. “A support of this type is clearly cost-effective,” the doctor observes. “And it has benefits for the skin too.” When asked about the precise mechanisms that cause “jumper’s knee”, the first thing the tendon specialist cites is an imbalance between the strain a tendon bears and its ability to cope with strain, which can ultimately lead to structural changes. Jumping and landing techniques can also be triggers. According to the expert , chronic cases generally involve a combination of factors. The motivation behind his research? Dr. Zwerver smiles. “Tendons might not be very sexy, but they are important.” †

The GenuPoint is positioned directly below the patella.

The support provides targeted relief for the tendon attachment point.

Conclusion of the study

A total of 70 percent of the test subjects with an excessive strain syndrome had fewer symptoms when wearing GenuPoint from Bauerfeind.


GenuTrain P3 active support

Ivan Zaytsev plays volleyball , and not just in the smart kit worn by the Italian national team. For over two years now, the elite athlete has also been sporting a support on his knee when he takes to the court. Not only does its color match his outfit – it also provides protection.

Versatile knee protection

MEDICAL

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Volleyball is a fantastic sport , but it is also a tough one. With all the diving, spiking, and blocking involved, injuries are sometimes unavoidable. Abrasions that occur when players try to reach virtually unwinnable balls while diving low are among the more harm-less injuries suffered. Knee problems caused

by frequent jumping and landing, however, tend to be more serious. Ivan Zaytsev, an Italian national volleyball player with Russian origins, is no stranger to this kind of painful experience. The main problem he has suffered from is pain in the patellar tendon. It was so

persistent that his team physician, Dr. Piero Benelli, advised him to use a GenuTrain P3 knee support , in combination with physio-therapy, to relieve the pain.

Preventing the kneecap from driftingSeveral functional elements are incorporated into the GenuTrain P3 (the “P3” part stands for “permanent patella protection”) to provide a kind of “all-round” protection. For example, an adjustable corrective strap combined with a special pad and a patella cover prevents the kneecap from drifting

Dr. Piero Benelli, team physician for the Italian National Volley-ball Team and responsible for Fisioclinics Pesaro.

A good fit: the Italian national volleyball player Ivan Zaytsev wears GenuTrain P3 to help reduce his knee pain.

away from its natural path. Meanwhile, a second, wedge-shaped pad stimulates the iliotibial tract to help even out imbalances. The compression exerted by the active support , particularly the intermittent compression during movement , speeds up the reduction of edemas and effusions. The sense of security during load bearing is improved and neuromuscular stabilization is provided for the joint. All these properties fit in with Dr. Benelli’s practical treatment concept. “We don’t have to look any further if we have a solution that helps the athlete and protects him from further risks,” he says.

Blue stands for reliable effectivenessDr. Benelli should know: with almost 30 years of experience as a sports physician, including at the Olympic Games, he recognizes exactly what his patients need. “Of course, they all want to get back on court quickly,” says Dr. Benelli, who runs a large rehabilitation center in the Italian town of Pesaro. Alongside other elite athletes, the center Fisioclinics Pesaro also looks after the basketball team VL Consultinvest Pesaro, which currently plays in the top division. “As a physician, however, you have to find the right solution for each individual.” He certainly seems to have done so in Ivan Zaytsev’s case, with the GenuTrain P3. The Italian national is currently playing for a Russian club, but the 28-year-old is also still known for delivering very impressive performances in the blue-and-white national kit. This may be partly down to the blue support protecting his kneecap too. †

“We don’t have to look any further if we have a solution that helps the athlete and protects him from further risks.”

(Dr. Piero Benelli)


MEDICAL

Made of tough stuffBehind the scenes at the Surf World Cup

A treatment couch, a mobile ultrasound device, a well-stocked first aid kit , plus various tapes, supports, and orthoses – this is the equipment Dr. Karl-Heinz Kristen, Head of Sportsclinic Vienna, will once again be bringing with him to the Austrian town of Podersdorf on the shores of Lake Neusiedl in May 2016 to set up his (tent-based) beach clinic there for the Surf World Cup.

An expert in sports orthopedics, orthopedics, and orthopedic surgery, Dr. Kristen has been providing medical care for professional surfers for 25 years. Not only has the sport of surfing developed during this time, but injury patterns have changed too. “Broken ribs, for example, were common in kitesurfing in the early days,” Dr. Kristen recalls. “That’s partly because the trapeze harnesses weren’t optimally adapted for kites to begin with.” Statistics show that , nowadays, acute injuries suffered during either kitesurfing or windsurfing are most likely to affect the ankle – but this is not just because of surfers landing hard on the water when they jump, as Dr. Kristen explains: “The surfer’s feet have to stay firmly fixed in the foot straps on the board in order to be able to perform the kinds of maneuvers involved in this type of sport. And then if the rotation isn’t quite 100 % right during a move, it’s easy to twist an ankle.” The second most common injuries are to the shoulders and knees, while the spine and elbows tend to be more susceptible to injuries caused by overuse. According to Dr. Kristen, the type and frequency of injuries suffered by surfers always depends

not only on their surfing technique, but also on the rules of the sport: “In the freestyle discipline, for example, where jumps with a triple rotation score particularly high points, surfers train more – sometimes with consequences,” says the sports orthopedist. “Nevertheless, in spite of its spectacular maneuvers, surfing can be classed overall as a sport with a low risk of injury.”

Fit to compete?“At the World Cup, the most important question as far as the athletes are con-cerned is ‘Can I carry on competing?’” says Dr. Kristen, “Sometimes they put up with an awful lot to carry on.” When treating athletes at the competition site, he likes to use supports and orthoses: “They’re great aids for protecting injured joints and structures.” During the competition, however, his first approach is to apply special tape that is suitable for use in water and can be worn under a wetsuit. “But as soon as the athletes get off their boards, they’re given a normal support or orthosis. That’s how it works on the professional tour. However, quite a few regular amateur surfers surf with supports on,

because they provide stability and prevent sprains.” In terms of supports, he has already used virtually all the Train products available, especially the MalleoTrain for the ankle. “The Train supports are easy to use. They don’t take up much space, you can put them on and take them off quickly, and they are extremely practical in a surfing environment.” When it comes to dealing with cruciate or collateral ligament injuries in the knee, Dr. Kristen also rates the SecuTec Genu knee orthosis. One thing professional surfers appreciate about Dr. Kristen himself is that , aside from offering medical expertise, he also surfs himself and understands exactly what the sport requires. †

“In spite of its spectacular maneuvers, surfing can be classed overall as a sport with a low risk of injury”, says Dr. Kristen.

Dr. Karl-Heinz Kristen, Head of Sportsclinic Vienna.


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“Het Lymfehuis” in Antwerp/Belgium

The narrow town house looks like any other on this long arterial road in Antwerp: a two-story building with a clinker brick facade and a glass front facing the street. There’s nothing to suggest that it’s anything special , but a sign hung in the window, bearing the words “Het Lymfehuis” in small type, confirms that we’re at the right address. The sparsely furnished lobby indicates that the move into the building was recent – and involved only a bare minimum of equipment. “Everything is brand new right now,” confirms Tim Decock,

a physiotherapist specializing in manual lymphatic drainage using the Vodder (MLDV) method, who is waiting by an open glass door on the top level. A therapy table is visible in the background; one patient is leaving the room, while three more are waiting, seated on white armchairs next to the reception desk. It is seven in the evening, and a sporty-looking woman is dashing up the final flight of stairs to the top level. Dr. Lore Fias, vascular surgeon and phlebotomist , has just come from her day job at Antwerp University Hospital: “We moved in three weeks ago,” she says, barely out of breath. Tim Decock, dressed casually in jeans and a fashionable shirt , laughs: “But we’ve already sorted the coffee machine.”

A lymph center rather than a lymph clinicTim Decock and Dr. Fias haven’t had much time to catch up over coffee during the last three weeks. Although the “lymph center” appears sparsely furnished from the outside,

its objectives are already clearly formed – and the center has some serious work ahead. But the cheerful colleagues seem to be enjoying the journey, in spite of the late hour. “We’ve finally been able to realize our dream,” says Dr. Fias. It is clear from her words that she truly believes in their cause. “We want to create a central point

for lymphedema patients to put an end to the cycle of being passed from therapist to therapist ,” says the physician. “Patients already have enough to worry about with their disease alone.” The physiotherapist continues: “We called our venture the ‘lymph center’ for a good reason. We don’t want it to sound like an expensive private clinic. This

It is the very first center of its kind in Belgium: a place where lymphedema patients, physicians and therapists come together outside of a hospital environment. The “Lymfehuis” in Antwerp is much more than just a treatment center – it’s also an essential meeting point.

“ The establishment of a place like this is long overdue”

“We want to create a central point for lymphedema patients to put an end to the cycle of being passed from therapist to therapist.”

(Dr. Lore Fias)

MEDICAL

Manual lymphatic drainage is a key component of lymphatic therapy.


lowers the barriers for patients to access our service. Any patient can come here and will pay the same as they would pay in a normal practice or hospital.”

Extended network of therapistsThe lymph center has one particular unique feature that patients will only encounter here: they will meet therapists and specialists from a wide range of disciplines, who usually only work in large university hospitals, such as the hospital in Antwerp. Alongside Tim Decock and Dr. Fias, two medical product specialists are employed in the lymph center team; they specialize in a range of disciplines, including the treatment of patients suffering from lymphedemas with challenging care needs. In such circumstances, precise measurement of the affected area of the body is crucial. In addition to the core team of physiotherapist/physician/medical product specialists, the center also employs a psychotherapist , a nutritionist and venous ulcer nurses.

Flat-knit technology medical compression stockingsIt is a central contact point for patients, employs therapists from various disciplines, and offers a number of treatment rooms –

but the lymph center is more than the sum of its parts. “We want to have an impact on the wider world,” emphasizes Tim Decock. “We want to inform. There are still far too many serious issues in our field.” One example is compression stocking treatment in the second phase of therapy. In the treatment of lymphedema, decongestion therapy is widely used as the first phase of treatment. A compression bandage, applied using a special wrapping technique, exerts pressure on tissues and muscles. It supports decongestion, stimulates lymph drainage, and prevents the tissue fluids flowing back into the affected parts of the body. MLDV, as practiced by Tim Decock, is also part of decongestion therapy. In the second phase of treatment , the patient receives special compression stockings designed to maintain the effect of the decongestion treatment. These products – used on arms, hands, legs and toes – are individually manufactured using flat-knit technology. Flat-knit compression products can be adapted for a perfect anatomical fit. The fabric exerts a high working pressure, which means that flat-knit products put more pressure on the tissue than circular-knit variants. For this reason, they are the preferred method of compression treatment in cases of lipedema and lymphedema. However, the success of the treatment depends on the product being worn correctly – and, in reality, this is unfortunately often not the case.

Bizarre stocking fashionsA picture often speaks a thousand words – so Dr. Fias turns her laptop so that everyone at the table can see the screen. The image shows a leg with the loose edge of a rolled-up compression stocking hanging just above the knee. The thigh is virtually strangulated, and the bizarre image is more reminiscent of frilly Baroque-style stockings than modern lymphedema therapy. “We see cases like this time and time again,” says the physician with concern. “Patients are often left completely to their own devices before the product is even put on.” Information, or “self-management”, as Dr. Fias calls it , is an essential component of the treatment.

“When a patient leaves us, that patient needs to know what phase of treatment he is in and what the next steps are.”

“We’re even stronger together”Antwerp’s lymph center would not be a true “center” if it did not play host to one final type of meeting: meetings between patients. Patients use the center to chat about things that even experienced therapists and lecturers like Tim Decock simply cannot understand: “I know what kind of additional treatments women who have had breast cancer surgery often have to go through,” says the physiotherapist. “But I can’t speak from my own experience about how it feels. The only people who can do that are other patients who have been through radiotherapy, for example, themselves.” These kinds of exchanges are part of the reason why Dr. Fias and Tim Decock are convinced of the need for the center. “We

have no other option but to succeed,” they say with confidence. “The establishment of a place like this is long overdue.” Both partners are continuing to treat patients in their own practices too. But the physiotherapist and physician are already noticing a difference: “We’re even stronger together.” †

MEDICAL

Ensuring that patients have the information they need is particularly important to Dr. Lore Fias.

Physiotherapist Tim Decock.


“ Right away for patients with thrombophilia”

Compression therapy during pregnancy I

soon as they find out they are pregnant. “In fact , I should wear stockings all the time, which I don’t always manage to do. But I’m completely consistent with it while I’m pregnant ,” says the expectant mother.

Ingenious systemDuring pregnancy, the hormonal changes alone put the mother’s body in an excep-tional situation. “On top of this, pregnancy also causes hypercoagulability, a pathological increase in the blood’s tendency to clot that leads to an increased risk of thrombosis,” says Dr. Birkner. “From around the 20th week of

“I’m familiar with compression stockings from my first pregnancy, and right now they’re absolutely essential ,” says Sonja L. as we wander through the park around Blutenburg Castle in the west of Munich, Germany, with her two-year-old son. The 37-year-old, who is pregnant , has a disorder known as factor V Leiden, a mutation in the gene for factor V (proaccelerin), which is involved in blood coagulation. “The factor V Leiden mutation is one of the most common hereditary risk factors for predisposition to clotting,” her treating gynecologist , Dr. Thomas Birkner, later tells

us. “It increases the likelihood of thrombosis compared to the general population by around five to ten times for heterozygous carriers and as much as fifty to one hundred times for homozygous carriers.”During pregnancy in particular, coagulation disorders such as a factor V mutation can further increase the risk of thrombosis and may also cause a miscarriage. Therefore, for women like Sonja L., it is usually recommended that they begin thrombosis prophylaxis using medical compression stockings and, in some cases, medication – normally low-molecular-weight heparin – as Pi

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Pregnant women are six times more likely to develop thrombosis than women who are not pregnant. With this in mind, your treating physician should consider treat-ment with medical compression stockings at an early stage.

MEDICAL

Sonja L. is pregnant with her second child. Compression stockings are part of her everyday life


pregnancy, the coagulation factors VII, VIII and X increase considerably, with another marked rise in factor VIII shortly before the birth. Meanwhile, as the factors that promote coagulation increase, those that help to prevent excessive coagulation also decrease.” There is, of course, a reason for this, as the gynecologist explains: during the birth, wounds occur in the uterus relatively frequently, and the mother’s body tries to heal them as quickly as possible. “This only works if, firstly, the uterus minimizes the wound surface area through contractions and, secondly, the coagulation system is significantly elevated.” Unfortunately, this means that the risk of thrombosis also increases constantly throughout pregnancy and remains high until up to six weeks after the birth.

Thrombosis prophylaxis especially important“Around 30 out of every 10,000 pregnant women develop deep vein thrombosis,” says Dr. Birkner. “Therefore, thrombosis prophylaxis is very important during pregnancy, especially if you already know that the patient – like Sonja L. – has a mutation in one of their blood coagulation factors. And then there are other disorders

that occur during pregnancy and can increase the risk further, such as pre-eclampsia.” The specialist therefore prescribes class 2 medical compression stockings to women with an elevated risk as soon as their pregnancy test comes back positive. For all other pregnancies, what he prescribes depends on the symptoms. “Around one in five of my patients have problems with their legs. Swelling is a major issue for many women. If the water retention goes beyond a certain degree, compression stockings are a good idea. These problems often lead to other symptoms, such as leg pain and the characteristic shiny skin. The symptoms more commonly occur in the left leg,” says the physician from

Munich, speaking from experience. He is on especially high alert if a patient suffers from sudden pain when their leg is subjected to a load. “In such a situation, I look for what is known as Homans sign: if the patient feels discomfort in their calf upon extension of the leg and dorsiflexion of the foot , this indicates that thrombosis may be present.”Dr. Birkner advises women who have been prescribed compression stockings during pregnancy to carry on wearing them for

up to six weeks after the birth due to the continued elevated risk of thrombosis, as described above. He also stresses that thrombosis prophylaxis is essential after a Caesarean section. “Thrombosis occurs 26 times more frequently in Caesarean sections

than in natural birth. This means that all new mothers must be provided with compression stockings and a course of heparin after a Caesarean.” The physician reports that , fortunately, patients tend to be very willing to accept compression treatment.

Good for circulationSonja L. is also clearly aware of the effect that wearing the compression stockings has had on her well-being, reporting that they have improved her health on a more general level too. “For example, I feel more revitalized in terms of my circulation. If I forget to put my stockings on in the morning, it only takes me two hours at the most to notice the effects. Then I have to put them on quickly and drink a coffee to get my circulation going. I also find that normal socks cut into my legs because of the water retention. Compression stockings have their advantages here too.”On top of this, Sonja L. has yet another good reason to wear her compression stockings. “Before my current pregnancy, I had an operation on my right leg because the venous valves had stopped closing. I had a varicose vein that was removed. I never want to have an operation like that under general anesthetic again, so preventive treatment makes sense to me.” †

MEDICAL

A stand-out feature: the silicone lace band.

If a patient is at increased risk of thrombosis, Dr. Thomas Birkner immediately prescribes compression stockings.

“Thrombosis occurs 26 times more frequently in Caesarean sections than in natural birth.”

(Dr. Thomas Birkner)


In Latvia, pregnant women are looked after by their family physician or by a certified midwife or gynecologist. Dr. Egils Gasins works at the Embrions Center of Reproductive Medicine, a Riga-based private clinic specializing in gynecology, obstetrics, and infertility treatment. He recommends medical compression stockings to many of his pregnant patients.

“The level of acceptance is good”Compression therapy during pregnancy II

Dr. Gasins, how does pregnancy affect the veins?Dr. Gasins: Pregnancy puts extra strain on a woman’s organism, including the leg veins. There are several reasons for this. For example, the increased level of the hormone progesterone, the main purpose of which is to make the tissue in the uterus more elastic, also causes the walls of the blood vessels to become slightly more stretchy, making them more prone to becoming deformed. At the same time, the amount of fluid in the body rises during pregnancy and more blood needs to be transported through the venous system. It is therefore essential

to always keep an eye on a patient’s leg veins during pregnancy and, if necessary, prescribe compression stockings to improve the venous blood return.

When exactly would you recommend wearing compression stockings?Dr. Gasins: For women who have already experienced vein problems prior to pregnancy or are genetically predisposed to them, I recommend wearing medical compression stockings as a preventive measure throughout their pregnancy and for two to three months after giving birth. And, of course, I recommend them as soon as symptoms such as pain or swelling in the legs arise during pregnancy.

MEDICAL

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Dr. Egils Gasins, gynecologist , “Embrions”, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Riga, Latvia.

Bauerfeind stockings model Giorgia Pucci chooses VenoTrain micro – including during her own pregnancy.


How many of your patients suffer from vein problems during pregnancy?Dr. Gasins: Around 50 percent of them, probably often those whose activities involve a lot of sitting or – quite the opposite – prolonged standing.

Do you find it hard to persuade your patients to wear compression stockings?Dr. Gasins: No, the women are generally very open-minded and concerned about looking after their health. The level of acceptance for compression therapy is therefore good. However, in a country like Latvia, where patients have to pay high additional contributions for healthcare, it is sometimes difficult for them to raise the extra funds for this. Here even pregnant women have to pay for compression stockings out of their own pocket.

How important is the way the stockings look to women?

MEDICAL

Targeted relief VenoTrain micro and VenoTrain soft

Wearing medical compression stockings can significantly reduce pregnancy-related symptoms such as leg swelling, ankle edema and the formation of spider veins. The defined pressure profile of the stockings improves the flow of blood through the veins and relieves the venous system. As a general preventative measure, experts recommend prescribing compression class (Ccl) 1 to be worn from the 12th week of pregnancy at the latest. Depending on the symptoms, Ccl 2 may also be appropriate.For pregnant women, Bauerfeind offers VenoTrain micro and VenoTrain soft as a knee or thigh-high stocking or as maternity pantyhose, with VenoTrain soft available only as a custom-made product. The maternity pantyhose feature an elastic panty area without compression, which stretches as the pregnancy progresses.

VenoTrain micro: soft , versatile, comfortableThe extra-smooth VenoTrain micro compression stocking has a microfiber content of over 50 percent , making it particularly soft and skin-friendly. Thanks to the wide range of color options – with two further batik options even for maternity pantyhose – wearers are sure to find a color that suits their style. The comfort sole has specific pressure relief zones along the heel and the ball of the foot. Elastic expansion zones in the middle of the sole ensure more stability in this area.

VenoTrain soft: with massage effectCompared to VenoTrain micro, VenoTrain soft is a somewhat more robust stocking that can cope with more demanding

Certified CME (Continuing Medical Education)

Bauerfeind offers two CME courses to allow physicians to refresh their knowledge in the fields of phlebology and lymphology and collect points at the same time.The first module of the phlebology course, entitled “General Venous Disorders”, by author Prof. Michael Jünger, Director of the Clinic and Polyclinic for Skin Disorders at Greifswald University Hospital , covers the clinical picture, diagnosis, and treatment options associated with general venous disorders. The second module looks at venous ulcers (ulcus cruris venosum) in detail. Up to two CME points can be achieved for each module.

wear – while remaining comfortably soft and kind to the skin. The fine knit is specially designed to gently massage the skin and stimulate circulation – so pregnant women can even treat their legs to a massage. The opaque stocking is available in five colors and in many different styles.

Prescription informationIn Germany, medical compression stockings can be prescribed under statutory health insurance for the relevant indications. The products are exempt from budgetary constraints and prescription benchmarks. To increase compliance and treatment success, stockings in Ccl 1 may also be prescribed and charged based on individual patient needs, according to the latest guidelines from the German Society of Phlebology. †

Dr. Gasins: The stockings currently available don’t look any different from conventional opaque stockings. The feedback regarding Bauerfeind’s compression stockings in particular has been very positive and they are highly rated by patients in terms of quality.

Do you give your patients any specific tips on wearing compression stockings?Dr. Gasins: I advise them to put the stockings on first thing in the morning. And it goes without saying that good skin care is important too. †

Prof. Markus Stücker, Managing Director of the vein center at the Dermatological and Venous Surgery Clinic in Bochum, authored the CME course entitled “Lymphedema: Diagnosis and Therapy”, which also attracts up to two CME points. Further information on the courses can be obtained from your Bauerfeind sales advisor.

The courses are also ideal as a knowledge refresher.


talking about one of the many benefits of the system. Moreover measuring by hand takes a lot longer. Bodytronic uses the data obtained to calculate circumference and length measurements as well as volume. Circumference and length measurements form

“Bodytronic 600 delivers data that can be accurately reproduced, ruling out sources of human error from the start – even when simply transferring the measurement data to the measurement sheet ,” explains the Managing Director of Ortopedia Grau Soler,

Used by Ortopedia Grau Soler, mainly to measure compression stockings: the Bodytronic 600.

RETAIL

Bauerfeind offers its medical retail partners a wide range of innovative measurement systems so that they can provide individual treatment with compression stockings, supports and foot orthoses that is tailored to each patient’s needs. After all , patients can only benefit from the optimum therapeutic effect of a product if it fits perfectly. life gives an overview of the various systems and hears from a satisfied user of Bodytronic 600.

“A real image boost”Modern measurement technology in the provision of medical aids

“When Bauerfeind Spain demonstrated the Bodytronic 600 measurement system to us four years ago, we immediately recognized that it would be a valuable tool for us in what was then still a relatively new branch of treatment with compression stockings,” says Beatriz Camós, Managing Director of Ortopedia Grau Soler in Barcelona, Spain. The primary focus of the long-established company, which is now in its fourth generation, is on manufacturing and adapting prostheses and orthoses. However, the treatment of patients with

phlebological and lymphological disorders has seen steady growth in recent years, with this area now making up around ten percent of sales. “We had already worked with digital measurement systems in other divisions of the company, so it made sense to opt for this modern technology here too,” says Beatriz Camós.

Quality that can be measured – and made to measureThe BODYTRONIC 600 measurement system makes it possible to quickly and precisely measure the leg all the way up to the hip, including the knee and ankle. By the end of the year, the system will also be able to take non-contact measurements of the upper body without any need for special measurement clothing.

Beatriz Camós, Managing Director of Ortopedia Grau Soler in Barcelona.

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the basis for selecting a product from the Bauerfeind online shop, where the product configuration tool suggests the best size. The medical retailer can decide between a custom-made solution or a standard product depending on the proportions of the patient‘s body. The retailer then goes through the online configuration tool with the customer to define all the other product features, such as the compression class, color and pattern of a compression stocking. “This really adds value,” says Beatriz Camós.

Before/after comparison possible“We mainly use Bodytronic 600 to measure patients for compression stockings,” explains Beatriz Camós. “But the measurement system also functions as a marketing tool. For example, it appeals to athletes who have sustained a sports injury that has resulted in muscle atrophy. The measurement results can give them objective information about circumference and volume measurements before and after the rehabilitation process. In the field of plastic surgery too, Bodytronic 600 can provide interesting comparative data before and after liposuction.” At Ortopedia Grau Soler, both patients and usually also the treating physician are informed of the measurement results.The modular software concept means that other Bauerfeind measurement systems can easily be connected and operated via common software. The recorded data is available to be used at any time for advice, cost

estimates and internal and external quality management. “Our customers are usually surprised by the modern technology to begin with, but they end up being very enthusiastic about it. We’ve installed a TV screen that is connected to the measurement system so that customers can follow the measurement process in real time.” Beatriz Camós is pleased with the results: “It’s very popular,” she says.For medical retailers who just want to take measurements for compression stockings, Bodytronic 400 is a simple and practical solution. The somewhat smaller system also measures the body in a non-contact process that does not require any special measurement clothing, providing a precise 3D image of the legs right up to the waist. Here too, the measurement data can be transmitted to the Bauerfeind online shop to aid with product selection. Bodytronic 400 is also available with or without a foot scanner.

Leg health can be measuredBodytronic 200 is the perfect tool for campaigns being held during special events, for instance, as well as for use by medical supply retailers on their premises. The measurement system uses light reflection rheography (LRR), a non-invasive hemodynamic procedure that can detect vein problems before they become outwardly visible – all without any pain or side effects. To do this, Bodytronic 200 uses an infrared sensor, positioned above the inside of the ankle, to wirelessly measure how quickly the

veins refill with blood after this has been pumped out by means of a specific movement sequence. The results obtained and the physician’s analysis of them provide a basis for taking the necessary therapeutic measures in good time. As well as supporting early detection of vein problems, the software can be used to show progress by taking several measurements at different times, making it possible, for example, to monitor function both before and after an invasive procedure is performed on the venous system.

Precision-perfect relief with foot orthosesBauerfeind works with its partners Rothballer and T&T medilogic to support medical supply retailers in providing treatment with foot orthoses by offering a range of digital measurement systems that can record the specific load distribution of the feet. This allows orthotists to adapt orthopedic orthoses precisely to suit individual requirements and provide precision-perfect relief. The Rothballer foot scanner – available in a basic or high-speed version – measures static foot topography for rapid digital mapping of the sole. It is suited to both stationary and mobile operation. The Rothballer TouchPoint is an elegant all-in-one foot scanner solution for use in store. It combines the Rothballer foot scanner, which is integrated in a functional housing unit , with a touch PC on an upright stand with LED lighting. The scanner and PC column are separate from one another and can be moved around as

The LRR measures the venous refill time (t0 in seconds: t0 is measured from the highest point in the curve after an exercise program until a stable reflection value is achieved again).

The wireless measurement sensors in the Body-tronic 200 make the system very user-friendly.

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desired, which is particularly useful in small spaces.

Medilogic foot pressure measurementThe medilogic pressure plate is already a classic in the world of orthopedics. It allows both static and dynamic measurement of the individual load distribution of the feet and can be used to determine how pressure is distributed below the foot , the body’s center of gravity, and the heel-to-toe movement. The measurement values are transmitted to the PC via a wired or wireless connection and appear right on the screen. The pressure distribution is depicted as an easy-to-understand colored isobar diagram or a three-dimensional pressure plot , so it doesn’t take an expert to identify problem areas straight away. Displaying the results in this way also makes it easier to convince the patient of the need for treatment. The medilogic pressure plate is lightweight but hard-wearing, making it simple to use for a wide range of applications.

No cumbersome cable connectionsDynamic inner shoe measurement with the medilogic WLAN insole is the perfect complement to the medilogic pressure plate. The measurement data is transmitted rapidly via WLAN, enabling pressure values to be displayed immediately during the measurement process. At the same time, the data is recorded in the internal memory, which features a powerful battery to allow for long measurement times. The sensors scan at frequencies of up to 400 Hz, which enables the recording of even the brief load peaks

that can occur during very rapid movements. The ultra-thin and flexible medilogic WLAN insoles can be customized for use in all manner of situations, from sports applications to treatment with orthopedic and custom-made shoes. What’s more, the data from an imprint foam scan with Bodytronic 600, a foot scan with the Rothballer scanner, and a medilogic foot pressure measurement can all be imported into the web application Bodytronic ID:CAM. Bodytronic ID:CAM by Bauerfeind allows orthotists to model individual foot orthoses that can then be milled by Bauerfeind.

Precise measurement , tailor-made product selection, and configurationWhether for foot orthoses or compression stockings, digital measurement systems are an indispensable tool for orthotists and medical supply retailers. Precise measurement data forms the basis for high-quality provision of medical aids, while the visual representation of the measurement results makes it easier to communicate with customers and the time saved thanks to the digital measurement process can be used for giving advice instead. This is a real win-win situation for business and customers! Beatriz Camós, Managing Director of Ortopedia Grau Soler, agrees: “I couldn’t imagine what our trade would be like without modern measurement technology. We have also come to appreciate Bodytronic 600 in particular as a feature that sets us apart from the crowd and gives us an edge over our competitors. The system is a real image boost.” †

RETAIL

The Rothballer TouchPoint: foot scanner and PC column in a single space-saving unit.

A classic in the world of orthopedics: the medilogic pressure plate.

>>> Overview of the measurement systems

Bodytronic 600is a 3D body scanner that takes foot-to-hip measurements for fitting medical compression stockings, knee supports, and ankle supports.

Bodytronic 400enables medical compression stockings to be measured in 3D up to the hip.

Bodytronic 200allows vein function to be measured using light reflection rheography.

Rothballer foot scannermeasures static foot topography for rapid digital mapping of the sole.

Rothballer TouchPointcombines the foot scanner with a touch PC to provide a complete solution.

Medilogic pressure plateprovides static and dynamic measure-ments of the individual load situation of the feet.

Medilogic WLAN insoleenables dynamic foot pressure measurements to be taken wirelessly.


“I’d like another pair of the foot orthoses that look like a jigsaw puzzle please.” Many customers come to Harald Kogel Orthopädie und Rehatechnik with this request. They are referring, of course, to the TRIactive, a foot orthosis in which the sections of varying Shore hardness interlock with one another vertically like the piece in a jigsaw puzzle. “We’ve been stocking the cushioning foot orthosis since it first appeared on the market ,” says Managing Director Harald Kogel. “Its special PowerWave technology won me over straightaway. The way that the individual

loading zones with their varying degrees of hardness fit together so there are no irritating hard edges is really clever.” Thanks to the jigsaw puzzle appearance and the use of different colors, it is easy for customers to grasp how the foot orthosis works. “And its unique design makes it easily recognizable.”The precisely positioned loading and pressure relief zones in the cushioning foot orthosis protect the support system and locomotor apparatus, alleviate strain injuries, and delay the onset of muscle fatigue. The TRIactive is available in the following designs to suit customers’ personal requirements: walk for walking and hiking as well as for people who spend long periods standing during their everyday lives, run for running, play for ball games, and golf for playing golf.“We now give the TRIactive to around a third of the customers we treat with foot orthoses,” reports Harald Kogel. “Many of

Strong demand for treadmill analyses and foot pressure measurementFounded 28 years ago, the company is also well known among local runners due to its partnerships with sports and running stores and its participation in running fairs and other events. “Our customer base therefore also includes many runners, most of whom we provide with the TRIactive run, usually in combination with a treadmill analysis and dynamic foot pressure measurement using the medilogic insole measuring system. These services are very popular with our customers.” At Harald Kogel Orthopädie und Rehatechnik, every TRIactive orthosis is individually adapted to the customer’s specific needs. “The adjustments pay off for the customers with every step,” says Harald Kogel with confidence. †

our customers ask to be prescribed one or two pairs of the foot orthoses a year because they are so long-lasting. “The TRIactive virtually sells itself,” remarks the expert orthotist happily. “The TRIactive

walk is simply an outstanding foot orthosis for people who have to stand a lot at work as well as for walkers and hikers. It accounts for the majority of our sales.”

RETAIL

Three-zone TRIactive foot orthosis

Since its worldwide market launch ten years ago, the TRIactive’s functionality and striking appearance have turned it into a surefire success. One place where the cushioning foot orthosis is proving very popular is at Harald Kogel Orthopädie und Rehatechnik, a business specializing in orthopedic and rehabilitation technology based in Sindelfingen, Germany.

“It virtually sells itself”

Harald Kogel , Managing Director Harald Kogel Orthopädie und Rehatechnik.

The sections of varying Shore hardness interlock like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.

“Its special PowerWave technol-ogy won me over straightaway. The way that the individual loading zones with their varying degrees of hardness fit together so there are no irritating hard edges is really clever.”

(Harald Kogel)


BACKGROUND

Since 2015, patients in Germany have had the right to a second medical opinion for certain surgical procedures. Prof. Dr. Jürgen Harms, a specialist in orthopedics and trauma surgery, thinks this is generally not a bad idea.

A medical specialist offers his views on second opinions

Prof. Dr. Harms, what is your personal view on a second medical opinion?Prof. Harms: I am definitely in favor of second opinions. People can make mistakes and be wrong – physicians are no different in that respect. But in medicine, in particular, this can have shocking effects. Safe decisions about therapeutic actions can only be made when the initial examiner has enough expertise. This is particularly true for diseases that are not part of the daily specialist field.

Which problems can be linked to a second opinion?Prof. Harms: I believe that there are two general problems. First: How do I, as a pa-tient , find a suitable physician for my second opinion? I think that only a physician who is highly qualified in the relevant specialist field and who has attended relevant fur-ther training should be authorized to give a second opinion. Such a physician should demonstrate sufficient case numbers of his/her own, in particular for surgical measures, because medicine is a science based on experience. It is also important that this physician is independent of health insurers or other institutions to ensure the second opinion is neutral. Second opinions which are under the control of health insurers or other institutions that are directly involved in the financial result of these surgical pro-cedures must be avoided at all cost.

The second problem is the patient him-/herself: The patient’s desire for a second opinion is absolutely justified, of course. Sometimes, however, patients acquire their own knowledge via research on the Internet or other media, which is often incorrect. A sound explanation of the diagnosis and treatment by the initial physician as well as the physician giving the second opinion is there-fore very important.

When do you consider a second medical opinion as useful?Prof. Harms: I think it is important to give the patient the option of a second opinion for complicated procedures with a substantial risk of complications. For standardized treatments that exist in nonsurgical as well as surgical therapy, however, a second opinion is not absolutely necessary, provided that the patient has recognized the basic problem and can understand the treatment. Whether a second medical opinion is obtained or not also depends very much on the patient’s mentality and level of knowledge. For me, it is always important to find out about the patient’s expectations because those and the surgical outcome often do not match.

Prof. Dr. Jürgen Harms spent more than 30 years as Chief Orthopedic Physician and Spinal Surgeon at Karlsbad-Langen-steinbach Hospital in Karlsbad and now works at Ethianum Private Hospital in Heidelberg, Germany.

It is definitely worth obtaining a second opinion

before spinal surgery.

“ Specialist knowledge is a must”

In general , I would like to add that it is an advantage if the physician who was asked for a second opinion is given the opportunity to personally examine the patient as well because even experienced physicians can make the wrong decisions if they are solely based on the contents of the patient’s file. Furthermore, the first and second physician should always communicate. † .


BACKGROUND

A representative from a health insurance provider offers his views on second opinions

“Obtaining a second opinion is basically always a good thing,” says Guido Dressel , Director of the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) health insurance company in the German state of Thuringia. In the follow-ing interview, Dressel describes the important things to consider when choosing a physician for a second opinion.

“ An interdisciplinary point of view is helpful”

Mr. Dressel , TK now enables second opinions to be obtained within the framework of volun-tary selective contracts – for example, in cases where spinal surgery is considered necessary. What exactly do you offer your policyholders in such situations?

Guido Dressel: According to a survey conducted by Forsa on behalf of TK in the summer of 2015, 75 percent of all statu-tory health insurance policyholders wish to be able to obtain an independent second opinion prior to a planned hospital stay. We support this desire in three different ways. First of all , we allow such patients to obtain the information they need. According to Sec-tion 76 of the German Social Security Code (SGB V), every statutory health insurance policyholder has the right to consult a sec-ond physician in order to obtain additional information on their illness or learn about possibilities for alternative treatments. The new Care Provision Strengthening Act also includes a provision for a regulated process for obtaining second opinions.In addition, TK policyholders can call the TK Second Opinion Hotline, which is staffed by all different kinds of doctors, mainly ortho-pedic specialists, oncologists, and surgeons. These professionals provide assistance and advice around the clock.The third way we support our policyholders is by offering them targeted assistance prior to hip, knee, shoulder, or spinal surgery. Here, we work with special centers that provide our customers with a second opinion prior to an operation. Alternatively, attending physicians can send patients to a pain therapy center specializing in their condition. Doctors at such centers can then determine whether inpatient surgery is actually necessary.

What has your experience been with second opinions?Guido Dressel: The “Second Opinion Prior to Spinal Surgery” model project launched in 2010 has revealed that nearly 90 percent of all the back operations it examined were not

Guido Dressel , Director Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), Thuringia.

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necessary. Patients insured by TK can obtain a second opinion for free prior to a planned operation, and around 2,000 TK policyholders have elected to do so to date. As it turns out , the second-opinion physicians judged 1,800 of the planned operations to be unnecessary, and the patients were then treated with alternative methods, such as physiotherapy or pain therapy.

Which criteria should be used when choosing a physician for a second opinion?Guido Dressel: A second opinion is particularly effective when the doctor in question focuses on different aspects than the original attending physician. For example, physicians in private practice tend to approach things differently than specialists who work in hospitals. A doctor who regularly performs surgery will have a different point of view than a more conservative physician, who might also have training in physiotherapy or psychosomatic medicine, for example. In any case, an interdisciplinary point of view is helpful.

Many physicians in private practice tend to favor conservative treatments over surgery. How can health insurance companies take this into consideration when setting their budgets?Guido Dressel: You’ve touched upon a fundamental health-policy problem that no single provider can solve on its own – namely the fact that from an economic point of view, it’s often more attractive these days to operate on patients than it is to offer them conservative treatment options. The elected bodies at the statutory health insurance companies need to act here, and a good start would be to promote the use of narrative-based medicine techniques. †


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PLACE TO BE

From October 20 to 23, the 17th Congress of the Asian Society for Vascular Surgery is taking place in Singapore alongside the 11th Asian Venous Forum. life has already checked out the venue and made a few discoveries.

Fascinating diversity A visit to the Lion City


PLACE TO BE

The Merlion – a mythical creature with a lion‘s head and the body of a fish – is used as a national symbol for Singapore.


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PLACE TO BE

Tradition and modernity The Lion City, the literal meaning of “Singapore”, is unique in its many and diverse contrasts between tradition and modernity. Ancient temples sit alongside futuristic buildings, luxury hotels jostle for space with food stalls, and Dior and Cartier in the Orchard Road shopping district contrast with small stores in Chinatown or Little India. A breathtaking view of the skyline featuring the Central Business District and City Hall

can be enjoyed from the viewing platform on the 58th story of the Marina Bay Sands building, a hotel , events, and casino complex. Only hotel guests have access to the 146-meter-long infinity pool , whose water seems to disappear into an endless expanse. A beautiful alternative is the Singapore Flyer (www.singaporeflyer.com) which, at 165 meters, is the second-tallest Ferris wheel in the world.

International and originalAfter viewing everything from above, it’s worth taking a good long stroll around the Chinatown, Little India, and Arab Street quarters, which Sir Stamford Raffles, Singapore’s founding father, established to give each nationality a district of its own. Despite the growing international feel , the areas have still kept much of their original character.There are around 140 large mosques, temples and churches, with the Sri Krishnan Temple,

the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, or the Sri Mariamman Temple well worth a visit. Those seeking a modern and varied program of art and culture can’t go wrong with Singapore’s new landmark, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (1 Esplanade Dr., Singapore 038981). The two great halls of this events center are reminiscent of two face-down halves of the durian fruit , whose unique taste makes it a delicacy in Southeast Asia. Not everyone turns out to be a fan of this fruit from the mallow family, which is also called the “stink fruit” and is even banned on the Singapore metro on account of its unusual smell.Visitors can wind down the day in the Long Bar in the famous Raffles Hotel. This is where, in 1915, the “Singapore Sling” cocktail was created, which is the city state’s unofficial national drink. The Long Bar provides peanuts for its guests to eat , who then simply throw the shells on the floor! This is not allowed anywhere else in the clean city of Singapore. †

The modern Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is one of the most frequently visited buildings in the Chinatown section of Singapore (288 South Bridge Road).

A raising experience: the view from the Ferris wheel “Singapore Flyer”.


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PLACE TO BE

Sands SkyPark Observation Deck

Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956,open 9:30 – 22:00 Mon – Thurs and 9:30 – 23:00 Fri – Sun, adult entrance fee: S$23 (approx. EUR 15),www.marinabaysands.com/sands-skypark.html

Whether you head for the gigantic “FlowerDome” greenhouse, the 40+ sculptures, or the redwoods, which can grow to 50 meters and are illuminated each evening by a laser light show – there’s a lot to discover and marvel at in the Gardens by the Bay!18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953,http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en.html

Gardens by the Bay

Sri Mariamman Temple

Jungle Breakfast and Night Safari

The Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown is the oldest and largest Hindu temple in Singapore and is often photographed for its opulent decorative statue. 244 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058793

In the multi-award-winning Singapore Zoo, visitors can breakfast with orangutans (“Jungle Breakfast”) or go on a night-time safari. 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826, open daily from 8:30 – 18:00, Night Safari 19:30 – midnight , www.zoo.com.sg

The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel

1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673, open from 11:00 (Sun – Thurs until 0:30, Fri & Sat until 1:30), www.raffles.com/singapore/dining/long-bar/

The Experience

The Wonder

The Feast for the Eyes

The View

The Cult Destination

The Supertrees, which are steel structures overgrown with vegetation, are used, among other things, to cultivate rare plants. Two of the towers are linked by a skyway.

You must try the Singapore Sling, the cocktail said to have been invented at the Raffles Hotel.


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STIMULUS

Brand ambassador Dirk Nowitzki

“He’s the perfect fit for us”They’ve come to understand each other very well: although Thomas Bauerfeind, a member of the Executive Board of Bauerfeind AG, and Dirk Nowitzki only met for the first time in fall 2015, they have seen each other regularly since the basketball superstar became Bauerfeind’s brand ambassador. In this interview, Thomas Bauerfeind tells life about the first time he met the likable elite athlete and what makes him an ideal brand ambassador.

be wearing them for no reason. That would also contradict our shared understanding of credibility and authenticity.

What do you hope to achieve with Dirk Nowitzki on board as brand ambassador?Thomas Bauerfeind: Dirk Nowitzki is one of the greatest players in the history of basketball and he has been using our products for a long time. He provides an impressive demonstration of how our products can perform. When someone

What type of guy is Dirk Nowitzki?Thomas Bauerfeind: He is completely normal. Really, just like he is on television, in the TV commercials. And he really is very tall. 2.13 meters. I have to look up every time I meet him. But there’s no shyness at all. We were very open with each other the first time we met and were on a first-name basis right away. That was his suggestion. He’s always very relaxed and easy to get along with. We met for the first time in a restaurant in Dallas. The owner had reserved a “quiet table” for us. But every few minutes someone came over to say hello to Dirk Nowitzki and shake his hand, including lots of politicians and local celebrities. And when we came to pay, the restaurant owner even said we could have our meals on the house. That was pretty unusual.

How do Dirk Nowitzki and Bauerfeind fit together?Thomas Bauerfeind: Very well. We share the same values: Despite his incredible sporting success, Dirk Nowitzki is a very down-to-earth person. Very genuine. He knows where he comes from and that success requires hard work. That is a perfect fit for us. We both strive to always give our best – whether that’s on the basketball court or in developing and producing supports, compression stockings, and foot orthoses.

Will Dirk Nowitzki be wearing Bauerfeind supports on the court from now on?Thomas Bauerfeind: Dirk Nowitzki has already been using our products for many, many years. You can see photos of him wearing them. For example, when he was struggling with knee problems at the end of January of this year, he wore our GenuTrain during games. We don’t expect things to change. In other words, Dirk Nowitzki will continue to decide which of our supports he wants to wear and when. He definitely won’t

like Dirk Nowitzki says that our products are world-class, it undoubtedly sends out a strong message! We want to forge new paths with Dirk Nowitzki and showcase the benefits that our products can bring to anyone, whether they need them for sporting activities or just for everyday life.And finally, I also hope our brand will gain a much higher profile outside of Germany. We can reach many more people with such a well-known figure, especially in America and Asia where basketball is very popular, and also grow the company in collaboration with our retail partners. From now on, you should be seeing Dirk Nowitzki wherever our products are available. We will supply our medical retailers with various marketing props for window and store displays and advertising material with images of Dirk Nowitzki. †

Dirk Nowitzki

... has already earned the nicknames

“Dirkules” and “the German Wunderkind”

in tribute to his status as

one of the world’s best basketball

players. The Würzburg-born star has been

playing for the Dallas Mavericks

in the NBA, the North American professional basketball league,

since 1998. With them, he became the first German to win the NBA

championship in 2011, and was also awarded the NBA Finals MVP Award for most valuable player in the finals. Having achieved more than 29,000 career points, he is among the top six scorers in NBA history – and is one of only four players to have reached this milestone with just one team. The father of two is committed to helping others through the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation, which funds projects that enable children and young people to participate in society through sport and physical activities. The exceptional talent is yet to decide how long he will keep playing: “I’d like to make the best I can out of the next few years. I’ll see how my body is feeling. And don’t forget I’ve still got Bauerfeind’s products – they will hopefully help me to keep playing for a few years yet.”

“Dirk Nowitzki provides an im-pressive demonstration of how our products can perform.”

(Thomas Bauerfeind)


STIMULUS

Dirk Nowitzki and Thomas Bauerfeind

in Spring 2016 in Dallas, Texas.


CONTACT

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Bauerfeind worldwide

Bauerfeind AG Triebeser Straße 16 07937 Zeulenroda-Triebes Germany Phone: +49 (0) 36628-66-10 00 Fax: +49 (0) 36628-66-19 99 Email: [email protected]

Service hotline: for international inquiries, please contact Phone: +49 (0) 36628 661 660 Fax: +49 (0) 36628 661 699

For more than 80 years Bauerfeind has been producing exclusively at its German site. The quality of its high-class medical aids is held in high regard all over the world. Bauerfeind is represented around the world, with 20 subsidiaries and distributors. Modern logistics allow us to guarantee short delivery times to our trading partners. In all , around 2,000 employees worldwide work for the success of the company and the benefit of patients. †

GERMANY

NORDICBauerfeind Nordic ABKungsholmstorg 811221 STOCKHOLMPhone: +46 (0) 774 100 020Fax: +46 (0) 774 100 021Email: [email protected]

USABauerfeind USA, Inc.1230 Peachtree St NESuite 1000ATLANTA, GA 30309 Phone: +1 800 423 3405Phone: +1 404 201 7800 Fax: +1 404 201 7839Email: [email protected]

BELGIUMPhone: +32 (0) 2 527 40 60Fax: +32 (0) 2 792 53 45Email: [email protected]

THE NETHERLANDSPhone: +31 (0) 23 531 94 27Fax: +31 (0) 23 532 19 70Email: [email protected]

BENELUXBauerfeind Benelux B.V.Waarderveldweg 12031 BK HAARLEM

ITALYBauerfeind AGFiliale ItalianaPiazza Don Enrico Mapelli 7520099 SESTO SAN GIOVANNI (MI)Phone: +39 02 8977 6310Fax: +39 02 8977 5900Email: [email protected]

AUSTRIABauerfeind Ges.m.b.H.Hainburger Straße 331030 WIENPhone: +43 (0) 800 4430 130Fax: +43 (0) 800 4430 131Email: [email protected]

SWITZERLANDBauerfeind AG Vorderi Böde 5 5452 OBERROHRDORF Phone: +41 (0) 56 485 82 42 Fax: +41 (0) 56 485 82 59 Email: [email protected]

Bauerfeind France S.A.R.L.B.P. 5025895957 ROISSY CDG CEDEX Phone: +33 (0) 1 4863 28 96Fax: +33 (0) 1 4863 29 63Email: [email protected]

SPAINBauerfeind Ibérica, S.A.Historiador Diago, 1346007 VALENCIAPhone: +34 96 385 66 33Fax: +34 96 385 66 99Email: [email protected]


CONTACT

SLOVENIABauerfeind d.o.o.Dolenjska cesta 242 b 1000 LJUBLJANAPhone: +386 (0)1 4272 941Fax: +386 (0)1 4272 951Email: [email protected]

UNITED ARAB EMIRATESBauerfeind Middle East FZ-LLC GF-09, District 1, 71 MPC Building Dubai Healthcare City P.O. Box 505116 DUBAI Phone: +971 4 4335 685 Fax: +971 4 4370 344 Email: [email protected]

SINGAPOREBauerfeind Singapore Pte Ltd.Blk 41 Cambridge Road #01-21SINGAPORE 210041Phone: +65 6396 3497Fax: +65 6295 5062Email: [email protected]

SERBIABauerfeind d.o.o.102 Omladinskih brigada 11070 NOVI BEOGRADPhone: +381 (0) 11 2287 050Fax: +381 (0) 11 2287 052Email: [email protected]

REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIABauerfeind Dooel Skopje50 Divizija 24 a1000 SKOPJEPhone: +389 (0) 2 3179 002Fax: +389 (0) 2 3179 004Email: [email protected]

CROATIABauerfeind d.o.o.Goleška 2010020 ZAGREBPhone: +385 (0) 1 6542 855Fax: +385 (0) 1 6542 860Email: [email protected]

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINABauerfeind d.o.o.Meše Selmovića 1971000 SARAJEVO Phone: +387 (0) 33 710 100Fax: +387 (0) 33 619 422Email: [email protected]

UNITED KINGDOMBauerfeind UKRegents Place338 Euston Road LONDON NW1 3BTPhone: +44 (0) 121 446 53 53Fax: +44 (0) 121 446 54 54Email: [email protected]


PEOPLE

Bauerfeind Quality Partner Advisory Board

On March 15, 2016, the Bauerfeind Quality Partner Advisory Board met in Zeulenroda, Germany, for the first time since the advisory board election that took place last year. The board welcomed Charly Schwarz (front , 2nd from right) as the new board member for Berlin. The board members reelected Torsten Quarg (front , 3rd from right) from the North-Rhine Westphalia/Rhineland electoral district as the chairman of the Quality Partner Advisory Board and confirmed the appointment of Ronald Werner (2nd Row, center) from the Saxony electoral district as the deputy advisory board chairman. In the meeting, the committee discussed the latest news from the product divisions. Marketing and the latest political developments affecting the healthcare sector were also on the agenda. The Bauerfeind Quality Partner Advisory Board is a com-mittee that represents the interests of over 1,000 quality partners in Germany, and is unique in the sector. †

First meeting in the new formation

Visiting Bauerfeind

19 students from Münster University of Applied Sciences, including Jannis Hoffsümmer and Simone Maly, visited Bauerfeind in Zeulenroda, Germany, during February 2016. As students of technical orthopedics, the guests used their two-day visit to talk to development engineers and product managers.Bauerfeind has been supporting the “Technical Orthopedics” course since 2002 with an endowed professorship in the field of biomechanics. The company regularly invites students to visit its headquarters in Zeulenroda. The visitors from Münster gained an insight into how the development process works at Bauerfeind, and were given the chance to try their hand at product development in a simulation exercise. †

A glimpse into the world of product development

Jannis Hoffsümmer and Simone

Maly worked on a Bauerfeind

shoulder orthosis.

Representing the interests of medical retailers: the Bauerfeind Quality Partner Advisory Board.

One person towers above the rest... Dirk Nowitzki with Bauerfeind partners and employees.

Bauerfeind USA

This spring, Bauerfeind USA hosted healthcare professionals and business partners during a two-day Dallas event featuring Dirk Nowitzki, Bauerfeind’s global brand ambassador. The event kicked off with a customer reception and product showcase where Thomas Bauerfeind, Bauerfeind AG Chief Financial Officer; Dirk Treiber, Bauerfeind AG Chief Commercial Officer, International; Greg Vaughn, Bauerfeind USA Chief Executive Officer; and Warren Colter, Bauerfeind USA Chief Marketing Officer each addressed the audience with remarks on the history, innovation, and planned growth of Bauerfeind in the US market. Guests later enjoyed a Dallas Mavericks basketball game and breakfast banquet meet and greet with Dirk Nowitzki. †

Meet and greet with Dirk Nowitzki

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BAUERFEIND.COM

SIMPLE AND CLEVER MODELING OF MILLED ORTHOSES •

free and easy to use for orthotists• very intuitive and simple operation• integrated module and foot orthosis library saves time• three user profiles: Basic, Advanced and Professional• available online 24/7•

complete flexibility when it comes to measurement data: foot scanning, blueprint, pressure measurement data and 3D foam imprint scanningFor customized

milled orthoses

BODYTRONIC® ID:CAMWeb Application

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BAUERFEIND.COM

SIMPLE AND CLEVER MODELING OF MILLED ORTHOSES • free and easy to use for orthotists• very intuitive and simple operation• integrated module and foot orthosis library saves time• three user profiles: Basic, Advanced and Professional• available online 24/7• complete flexibility when it comes to measurement

data: foot scanning, blueprint, pressure measurement data and 3D foam imprint scanning

For customized milled orthoses

BODYTRONIC® ID:CAMWeb Application

bt_id_cam_anzeige_4c_INT_210x280_160525.indd 1 25.05.2016 18:46:17

BAUERFEIND.COMGenuPoint®

Patellar tendon support

Targeted relief for the patellar tendon

With its special pad, the GenuPoint helps to alleviate pain in the front of the knee and counteract restricted mobility.

• Noticeable relief• Individually adjustable compression• Easy to put on

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bauerfeind life international (issue 2016/2)

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