ABC CPO study plan
ABC CPO · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Prosthetics
Define and distinguish the major categories of upper- and lower-limb prostheses by level of amputation
Label the componentry of a transtibial prosthesis (socket, suspension, pylon, foot) and state the function of each
Explain socket design principles including total-surface-bearing and patellar-tendon-bearing concepts in your own words
Build a one-page terminology glossary covering at least 25 prosthetic terms
Your checkpoint
Completed 25-term prosthetic glossary plus a labeled component diagram of a transtibial prosthesis
Prosthetics
Compare suspension mechanisms (pin, suction, vacuum, sleeve, belt) and list indications and contraindications for each
Differentiate prosthetic feet and knees by mechanical function and match each to a described patient profile
Explain the roles of the prosthetist, physician, therapist, and CPO in the care team
Practice 20 board-style prosthetic componentry questions and log every missed concept
Your checkpoint
A comparison table of at least 6 suspension systems and 6 feet/knee units with matched patient scenarios
Prosthetics
Describe the prosthetic fitting and evaluation sequence from initial assessment through delivery
Identify common prosthetic complications and propose a fitting or alignment adjustment for each
Interpret residual-limb assessment findings and translate them into socket design decisions
Write short explanations for why specific alignment changes alter gait
Your checkpoint
A troubleshooting matrix listing at least 8 prosthetic problems with probable cause and corrective action
Prosthetics & Orthotics
Summarize upper-limb prosthetic options and body-powered versus myoelectric control tradeoffs
Define foundational orthotic terminology and the biomechanical principles underlying orthotic intervention
Map the anatomic and functional differences between prosthetic and orthotic patient assessment
Complete a timed 40-question mixed prosthetic/orthotic practice set
Your checkpoint
A scored 40-question practice exam with a written error analysis for each miss
Orthotics
Classify lower-limb orthoses (AFO, KAFO, HKAFO, foot orthoses) by design, function, and typical indication
Explain the biomechanics of ankle-foot orthosis function in swing and stance phases
Compare orthotic materials and fabrication methods and state tradeoffs in weight, durability, and cost
Describe the orthotic measurement, casting, and modification workflow
Your checkpoint
A classification chart of at least 10 lower-limb orthoses with indication and mechanical principle for each
Orthotics
Classify upper-limb and spinal orthoses by design and function
Match orthotic designs to described conditions such as foot drop, knee instability, scoliosis, and wrist drop
Identify common orthotic fitting problems and select appropriate adjustments
Explain how orthotic alignment and trim lines affect patient comfort and function
Your checkpoint
A condition-to-orthosis matching worksheet of at least 15 scenarios with rationale for each selection
Prosthetics & Orthotics
Integrate prosthetic and orthotic decision-making for patients who cross both domains
Review and re-drill every missed concept logged in weeks 1 through 6
Practice 60 mixed board-style questions under timed conditions
Refine personal study notes into concise high-yield summary sheets for both domains
Your checkpoint
A timed 60-question mixed practice exam scoring at or above 75 percent
Prosthetics & Orthotics
Complete two full-length timed mock exams and review all rationales
Recite high-yield facts for both domains without notes
Target the three weakest concepts from prior error logs with focused re-study
Finalize a pre-exam review sheet covering both domains
Your checkpoint
Two completed full-length mock exams with error logs and a final one-page high-yield review sheet
Milestones
Week 2: Score at least 70 percent on a 20-question prosthetic componentry self-quiz
Week 4: Complete the 40-question mixed practice set and document an error analysis for every miss
Week 6: Correctly match at least 12 of 15 conditions to orthoses on the week 6 worksheet
Week 7: Score at least 75 percent on the timed 60-question mixed practice exam
Week 8: Score at least 80 percent on both full-length mock exams