MD Orthopaedics

Specialties

Manufacturer of Ponseti® Clubfoot Products

History

Established in 2004.

John Mitchell, an Iowa based designer of medical instruments and models, established MD Orthopaedics to provide an effective, patient friendly device to assist in the treatment of clubfoot. This device is a significant component of the «Ponseti Method» which has become the most popular and effective alternative to orthopaedic surgery.

Dr. Ignacio Ponseti, an orthopaedic surgeon, developed this method during his 63 year tenure at the University of Iowa Hospitals. He became one of the most renowned and respected orthopaedic surgeons worldwide, with his method and practices well published.

The Ponseti technique involves the use of four to five casts, to manipulate the foot so to correct the deformity. This procedure, performed by a physician or qualified health professional, should start as soon after birth as possible. An AFO (ankle and foot orthosis) brace, as designed by John Mitchell, is then attached to the patient’s feet to

continue the manipulation process and prevent relapse.

Meet the Business Owner

John M.

Business Owner

John felt the calling to leave his full-​time job to begin the task of designing a better clubfoot brace, all from the comfort of his family garage. With the loving support of his wife and prayerful steps of faith, John designed countless prototypes which he delivered to Dr. Ponseti at the University of Iowa for evaluation and hopeful approval. Many months and versions passed until a visit to the orthopaedic clinic paired John with a desperate parent who was willing to try anything to ease her child’s suffering, and a product was born. One pair at a time, fantastic results were achieved and word spread leading to the current expansion of sizes, products, and services offered today.