2026 Academy TODAY Webinar Series: Gait

Session Overview

This webinar will explore key considerations in gait development and clinical application across pediatric and prosthetic populations. Heather Willets will discuss the importance of developmental gait milestones in optimizing pediatric orthotic outcomes. Amy Lawrence will present on educational strategies for teaching gait, including foundational concepts and emerging approaches in clinical understanding. Santiago J. Muñoz will examine the role of alignment adjustability, plantarflexion conservation, and dorsiflexion resistance in improving gait outcomes for individuals with partial-foot amputations. Together, these presentations offer a comprehensive look at gait from developmental, educational, and clinical perspectives.

Learning Objectives

Heather Willets, MPO, CPO

• Identify the need for increased understanding of developmental gait in orthotic management.
• Recognize how gaps in understanding developmental gait impact orthotic outcomes.

Amy Lawrence, PTA, MSPO, CPO

• Describe how key foundational gait concepts are taught, including functional anatomy and closed chain mechanics.
• Identify methods of teaching gait deviations using structured observational methods such as slow motion video and gait cycle analysis.
• Apply objective scoring tools (POGS, EVGS) to teach gait quality and improve learner’s clinical communication.
• Integrate appropriate technology into instruction for gait assessment while reinforcing strong clinical observation skills.
• Use systematic, pattern-based teaching approaches to connect biomechanics with clinical decision making.

Santiago J. Muñoz, CPO, FAAOP

• Explain the benefits of using a customizable, adjustable ankle joint combined with carbon fiber properties to restore forefoot lever and ankle motion.
• Understand the importance of maintaining physiological gait and avoiding rigid, restrictive designs in partial-foot prosthetic treatment.

The Academy TODAY Webinar Series

The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists invites clinicians and O&P professionals to participate in an innovative webinar series designed to expand access to cutting-edge knowledge and foster professional growth.

This series builds upon the valuable content published in Academy TODAY, offering a new platform for clinicians to deepen their expertise in patient care strategies and innovative practices. By engaging with this content through interactive webinars, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the latest research and practical applications from the Academy’s Scientific Societies.

Why Attend?

• Earn CEUs: Each one-hour webinar delivers practical, evidence-based education tailored to the needs of O&P professionals.
• Access Exclusive Insights: Engage directly with Academy TODAY authors through presentations and live Q&A discussions.
• Explore Membership Benefits: Non-members gain a preview of the Academy’s educational resources and networking opportunities.
• Elevate Your Practice: Stay at the forefront of patient care strategies and innovations.

Highlights

• Moderated by esteemed Academy Fellows, ensuring high-quality discussions and professional insight.
• Authors summarize their articles, followed by interactive Q&A sessions to address attendee questions.
• Strengthens the impact of Scientific Society research while providing an engaging platform for clinical education.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge, connect with peers, and earn CEUs while exploring the Academy’s rich educational resources.