Why should I Join ISPO?

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You are obviously aware that ISPO exists, but you may not be certain exactly what it’s ‘for’ or how it relates to you.  We would like, therefore, to outline briefly three of the society’s roles or aims:

As with any other field, the underlying body of knowledge in Prosthetics and Orthotics is constantly evolving.  New ideas are proposed, tested, subjected to scrutiny by others in the field, published and adopted.  Major players in this process are the so-called ‘learned societies’ which organise conferences, publish academic journals and generally represent the body of knowledge for their particular field.  ISPO is the principle learned society for the field of Prosthetics and Orthotics.

In Prosthetics, Orthotics: and Rehabilitation Engineering professionals of many disciplines work together.  Doctors, Prosthetists, Orthotists, Therapists, Engineers etc are all involved.  In such a multidisciplinary field it is important to have a forum in which the different professions can participate on equal terms, communicate and exchange ideas.  ISPO aims to provide just such a forum.

All branches of science and medicine are becoming increasingly international in scope.  If they are to maintain the highest standards professionals cannot afford to ignore developments occurring in their field in other parts of the world.  Hence the need for an international society, and ISPO is certainly that.  The major forum for international exchange is the ISPO World Congress, which is held every three years, but in addition ISPO is particularly concerned to facilitate the provision of modern prosthetic and orthotic care in low-income countries and has been active for many years in establishing standards and providing guidance for the training of prosthetic and orthotic personnel.

These then are three aims which ISPO has which will certainly match some of your own professional concerns:

• being aware of the latest scientific advances in your field,
• exchanging knowledge and experience with colleagues in other professions,
• keeping abreast of developments in other parts of the world.

ISPO is a growing and flourishing society.  Nevertheless, like any other it is only as good as its members and the UK Society is keen to have as many active and enthusiastic professionals among its members as possible.  The annual membership fee is £80 (£25 for students) and members receive the journal Prosthetics and Orthotics International three times a year, reduced registration fees at the World Congress, reduced registration fees at the UK Annual Scientific Meeting and the UK Newsletter.

To join ISPO please print a copy of the application form , complete it and send it, together with the membership fee, to: