Aug 06, 2026  
2026-2027 Course Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Course Catalog
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OPCA 1015 - Pedorthic Theory and Fabrication

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 1 Lab 4
Course Description: This course covers the biomechanical principles of the foot and ankle as they respond to the effects of shoe modification and external forces generated by the application of an orthotic device. This hands-on laboratory experience focuses on modifying orthopedic shoes along with fabricating prescribed custom-molded foot orthoses to control and support the structure of the foot. Students must be able to perform physical tasks to complete course requirements.
Prerequisite(s): OPCA 1010   with a grade of C or higher or concurrently enrolled
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: Concurrently enrolled in OPCA 1010  , OPCA 1025  , OPCA 1035  , OPCA 1045  

Major Content
  1. Foot and ankle anatomy
  2. Foot and ankle biomechanics
  3. Safety
  4. Implement treatment plan: foot orthoses
    1. nomenclature
    2. designs
    3. material selection
    4. comprehensive fabrication of an accommodative foot orthosis
    5. comprehensive fabrication of a prepreg composite foot orthosis
  5. Implement treatment plan: shoe modifications
    1. nomenclature
    2. designs
    3. material selection
    4. comprehensive fabrication of a shoe lift with rocker sole

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. identify foot and ankle surface anatomy. (C.1.4)
  2. identify functional anatomy of the foot and ankle. (C.1.4)
  3. identify relating structures to corresponding functional anatomy. (C.1.4)
  4. communicate using medical terminology. (C.1.4)
  5. identify triplanar motions of the foot and ankle. (C.3.2)
  6. apply foundational knowledge of biomechanical principles. (C.3.0, C.8.0)
  7. integrate biomechanics into orthotic design. (B.1)
  8. determine fabrication criteria based on biomechanical information. (C.3.1)
  9. practice sound judgement regarding safety of self and others. (A.1.2)
  10. demonstrate safe and appropriate use of tools. (C.1.7, C.4.0, C.4.1)
  11. demonstrate safe and appropriate use of equipment. (C.1.7, C.4.0, C.4.1)
  12. adhere to safety procedures and practices throughout the fabrication process. (A.1.2, C.4.0, C.4.1)
  13. implement an orthotic treatment plan for foot orthoses. (C.4.0)
  14. identify foot orthoses designs. (C.8.1.1)
  15. identify materials used in foot orthosis fabrication. (C.1.5, C.8.1.1.a, B.2)
  16. utilize material science principles in fabrication decisions. (C.1.5, C.8.0)
  17. locate manufacturers’ specifications regarding material usage. (C.1.5)
  18. fabricate foot orthoses. (C.8.1.1.c, d, e, f)
  19. prepare negative molds/ impressions for foot orthoses. (ABC)
  20. fill negative molds/impressions for foot orthoses. (ABC)
  21. complete positive model rectification for foot orthoses. (ABC, C.1.2, C.1.2.1.a)
  22. prepare positive models for foot orthoses fabrication. (ABC, C.8.1.1.c)
  23. vacuum-form foot orthoses. (ABC, C.8.1.1.d)
  24. trim-out foot orthoses. (ABC, C.8.1.1.d)
  25. finish foot orthoses for fitting. (ABC, C.8.1.1.d)
  26. fit foot orthoses into shoes, including corrections for heel height. (ABC, C.8.1.1.f)
  27. fabricate foot orthoses as directed by an orthotist. (A.1.3, C.1.7)
  28. comprehensive fabrication of an Accommodative foot orthosis
  29. implement orthotic treatment plan for shoe modifications. (C.4.0)
  30. identify footwear structures and designs. (C.8.1.1.g)
  31. identify footwear modifications. (C.8.1.1.g)
  32. demonstrate foundational knowledge in orthopedic shoe modification. (C.8.0)
  33. identify current materials used in footwear construction. (C.1.5)
  34. perform footwear modifications. (C.8.1.1.g)
  35. comprehensive fabrication of a shoe lift with rocker sole.
  36. remove outsole. (ABC, C.8.1.1.g)
  37. prepare shoe for modifications. (ABC, C.8.1.1.g)
  38. apply lift material to shoe. (ABC, C.8.1.1.g)
  39. grind material to specifications. (ABC, C.8.1.1.g)
  40. finish shoe to prepare for delivery. (ABC, C.8.1.1.g)
  41. fabricate shoe modifications as directed by an orthotist. (A.1.3, C.1.7)

Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC): Goals and Competencies


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