Anita Whitner - Student Blog 7/15/25

This semester for Baker’s Dozen has been an exciting deep dive into lower limb prosthetics and orthotics. One of the highlights has been fabricating both Total Surface Bearing (TSB) and Patellar Tendon Bearing (PTB) test sockets for our patient models. Having real patient models to work with made the learning experience so much more meaningful. Being able to listen to their feedback, see how they moved in the sockets we made, and adjust accordingly gave us a clearer picture of how these devices function beyond the classroom. Our patient models were incredibly patient, supportive, and honest, they truly helped shape our growth as future clinicians.

Alongside prosthetics, we’ve officially made it halfway through our Lower Limb Orthotics course! So far, we’ve tackled UCBLs and custom foot orthoses, learning how to correct and support foot deformities with precision and purpose. It’s been challenging but rewarding to apply biomechanics and pathomechanics to real fabrication decisions and see the results on a physical device.

With each project, we’re gaining confidence, skill, and feeling more prepared to support patients in achieving their goals. We’re grateful for the hands-on experiences and can’t wait to see what the rest of the semester brings.

-Spring 2025 cohort