WINNIPEG, MB: The Pedorthic Association of Canada (PAC), a national, non-profit organization whose main mandate is to develop and promote the study, practice, and knowledge of pedorthics in Canada, recently hosted its annual symposium. The event took place April 13-15, 2023, in Niagara Falls, Ontario, and was attended by upwards of 200 registrants.
With more than 650 members across the nation, the Pedorthic Association of Canada—which is managed by a volunteer board of directors—has helped the Canadian practice and profession of pedorthics to grow substantially over the past 15 years. Pedorthists are highly trained professionals who assist patients dealing with a wide variety of foot and lower limb conditions. By assessing patients and designing, modifying, and fitting customized orthotics and orthopaedic footwear, pedorthists help Canadians improve their mobility and quality of life.
Every year, PAC hosts a symposium to bring together members (and prospective members) from across the country. This year the event, titled “The Pedorthist in a Modern World”, was held at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel in Niagara Falls.
Over a three-day period, participants had the opportunity to learn, network, and engage in professional workshops, presentations, and discussions. This year’s keynote speakers were Sagar J. Desai, BSC, MD, MSC, FRCSC, and James Howard, whose presentations were attended by 213 in-person registrants and 97 virtual registrants. In-person registrants were also able to visit 38 exhibitor booths and participate in various break-out sessions and social events.
Kelly Robb, C. Ped (C), current president of PAC, was thrilled to see such a strong turnout at this year’s symposium. “The event included presentations on Achilles tendon ruptures, less invasive surgeries to the forefoot, body alignment assessments, business strategy and marketing, and a generational perspective on running your own pedorthic clinic,” she said, adding that the event is a highlight that pedorthists across Canada anticipate every single year.
For more information about the Pedorthic Association of Canada and the services it provides, visit https://pedorthic.ca.