Interview with Ben Blecha: Helping Animals and Humans Thrive and Live Life to the Fullest Through Hero Braces

05/06/2023 35 min
Interview with Ben Blecha: Helping Animals and Humans Thrive and Live Life to the Fullest Through Hero Braces

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Episode Synopsis

Ben received his training in orthotics and prosthetics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. As a Certified Orthotist-Prosthetist on the human side, his work experience includes a stint at Shriners Hospitals for Children-Greenville. Ben’s personal experience with osteosarcoma bone cancer and amputation feeds his drive to help others.When introduced to Dr. Robert Taylor of Animal Planet’s Emergency Vets show, Ben was asked to consult on a project for a dog named Triumph. Ben learned of the limited options available for animals with limb injuries and deformities, inspiring the founding of Hero Braces.Ben focuses his efforts on helping animals and continues to consult in human orthotics and prosthetics. He has been invited to speak at conferences on both human and animal orthotics and prosthetics, including the annual meetings of the 2011 American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association and the 2008 International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy.Topics covered in this episode:Ben’s story and how he uses it today to help othersThe differences in working in the human field versus the animal fieldConditions that may be good candidates for a brace in dogs vs. surgeryHow the stifle brace affects the dogs and their outcomesPadding or no padding on a knee brace, what is the best methodWhy a prosthetic leg is not always beneficial for a three-legged dogWhat the process looks like for those interested in a braceLinks and Resources: Learn more about Hero BracesFind Hero Braces on FacebookFind Hero Braces on InstagramMaking Strides for Animal Chiropractic links:Visit the Making Strides for Animal Chiropractic websiteVisit our Facebook PageVisit our Instagram Page Thank you to our sponsors!Academy for the Advancement of Animal ChiropracticiPoint Touch- Integrative Veterinary Medicine EHRThe Evidence Based Chiropractor

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