An instructor and alumnus from the BS Prosthetics and Orthotics program at the UERM Medical Center College of Allied Rehabilitation Sciences, Mr. Rafael Nathaniel T. Mabasa, CPO, recently presented his undergraduate research at the prestigious International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) 20th World Congress held in Stockholm, Sweden.
Mr. Mabasa was part of the ISPO Philippines delegation, a distinguished group featuring seven alumni of the BS Prosthetics and Orthotics program. Among them was fellow alumnus Mr. Barnard Peralta, MEM-BME, CPO, who also served as a presenter.
Mr. Mabasa presenting his undergraduate thesis: The Development and Evaluation of the Realism of an Alternative Prosthetic Model for Prosthetics and Physical Therapy Education: The Pelvic-Femoral Learning Model (PFLM)
During the congress, Mr. Mabasa proudly presented his research entitled: The Development and Evaluation of the Realism of an Alternative Prosthetic Model for Prosthetics and Physical Therapy Education: The Pelvic-Femoral Learning Model (PFLM).
Presented under the Education Session, the study introduced a novel prosthetic model designed to enhance training in residual limb assessment, palpation, bandaging, and casting. The model addresses a crucial gap in existing training methods by providing more immersive and practical educational tools for students.
“My study focuses on creating a more realistic and effective prosthetic training tool for educational settings,” Mr. Mabasa explained. “This research is particularly important because it responds to the growing need for practical, hands-on educational models that prepare learners for real-world challenges.”
This research has already gained local recognition, having won second place in the Oral Presentation category at the UERM College of Allied Rehabilitation Sciences Annual Research Symposium in 2024.
In addition, two co-authors — Ms. Allana Marie S. Sol and Ms. Maxene Giuliana G. Lina, both Physical Therapy students — presented the study as a Poster Presentation during the 2025 CAReS Annual Research symposium held on May 10, 2025 at the UERM Cohan Auditorium. This achievement underscores the value of interdisciplinary collaboration between Physical Therapy and Prosthetics and Orthotics in advancing rehabilitation science.
The authors of the study include:
Held from June 16 to 19, 2025, the ISPO World Congress is one of the most significant global events in Prosthetics, Orthotics, Sports Medicine, Orthopedics, and Physical Activity. It gathers an international community of Certified Prosthetists and Orthotists (CPO), Physical Therapists (PT), rehabilitation physicians, researchers, and industry innovators to share cutting-edge research, innovative practices, and emerging technologies aimed at injury prevention, rehabilitation, and improved physical performance.
The 2025 Congress featured keynote speeches, scientific presentations, technical workshops, and networking sessions, all focused on advancing patient care and promoting active, healthy lifestyles. Topics covered included Injury Prevention Strategies, Rehabilitation Techniques, Biomechanics, and emerging rehabilitation paradigms that enhance mobility and quality of life.
Participants shared a common mission — to improve outcomes for individuals with disabilities or injuries through innovation, evidence-based approaches, and global collaboration. The ISPO World Congress continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of Rehabilitative Medicine and Assistive Technology.
The BS Prosthetics and Orthotics program of the UERM College of Allied Health Professions is a specialized undergraduate course designed to equip students with comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical skills for a career in Prosthetics and Orthotics. The curriculum covers Human Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Material Science, which form the foundation for designing and fabricating custom devices.
Through laboratory exercises and clinical rotations, students develop proficiency in assessing patient needs, creating individualized treatment plans, and applying modern technology in device fabrication. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and patient-centered care, preparing graduates to meet diverse healthcare challenges.
The College’s state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty — many of whom are industry practitioners — foster a supportive environment for learning, research, and professional growth.
The UERM College of Allied Rehabilitation Sciences offers BS Physical Therapy and BS Prosthetics and Orthotics programs, integrating theoretical instruction with hands-on clinical training.
Both programs aim to produce highly competent, compassionate professionals capable of advancing rehabilitation services and improving patient outcomes within their communities.