Pediatric Ankle Turtle Brace Certification: Foundations of Turtle Bracing for the Pediatric Lower Extremity
No. Of Credits: 6 CEH for PT/PTA, OT/OTA
PPT4ed Training Room at Progressive Pediatric Therapy
5589 Okeechobee Blvd. Suite 205
West Palm Beach, FL 33417
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Course Duration: 8:00 AM- 3:30 PM
Price: $225
Course Description
Designed for rehabilitation professionals working with pediatric populations, this course provides an evidence-informed approach to pediatric ankle Turtle Bracing using a remoldable orthotic system. Participants will learn a practical clinical framework for evaluating children, determining candidacy for ankle Turtle Bracing, establishing treatment goals, selecting and fitting an ankle Turtle Brace, educating caregivers, and progressively remolding the brace as the child grows and/or range of motion improves. Through lecture, demonstration, hands-on laboratory instruction, and competency assessment, participants will develop the skills necessary to confidently integrate pediatric ankle Turtle Bracing into clinical practice. Unlike traditional orthotic courses that primarily teach brace application, this certification emphasizes ongoing clinical management through the process of Evaluate → Apply → Progress.
- Understand the role of pediatric ankle Turtle Bracing and identify appropriate candidates for treatment.
- Perform a lower extremity assessment to establish treatment goals.
- Measure, heat, mold, fit, and safely apply an ankle Turtle Brace.
- Determine when and how to progress treatment through reassessment and brace remolding.
- Educate caregivers regarding safe brace use and home management.
Participants will be able to
- Identify children who may benefit from pediatric ankle Turtle Bracing.
- Perform a standardized lower extremity assessment including ankle/foot alignment, ROM, strength, tone, gait and balance.
- Establish treatment goals using Turtle Bracing / Serial Bracing.
- Independently measure, fit, heat, mold, and assess alignment and functional use of ankle Turtle Brace.
- Demonstrate appropriate clinical decision making regarding brace progression, appropriate foot wear, use of wedging, and need for remolding.
- Educate caregivers and clients regarding home management, wear schedules, footwear, and skin monitoring.
Course Schedule
Schedule:
8:00-8:30 Registration, Introductions, Course Overview
8:30-9:15 Foundations of Turtle Bracing
9:15-10:15 Evaluation and Treatment Planning with Hands on Lab
10:15-10:30 Coffee break
10:30-12:00 Turtle Brace Application and Hands on Lab with other Participants
12:00-12:30 Lunch break
12:30-2:00 Treatment Progression and Hands on Lab with Children
2:00-3:00 Caregiver Education & Clinical Competency Assessment
3:00-3:30 Wrap Up Q&A: Insurance, LMNs, ordering, Course Survey
Mary Pengelley, PT, DPT, ATP
Mary Pengelley, PT, DPT, ATP
Mary B. Pengelley, PT, DPT, ATP has been a pediatric PT since 1983. Her experience includes school based therapy, early intervention, aquatic therapy, neuro-muscular/functional electrical stimulation, 24-hour postural care, whole body vibration, orthotics, serial bracing, and adaptive seating and mobility. Mary is a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Practitioner and is a level 3 Trainer in 24-hour Postural Care. She also teaches pediatric classes and labs for DPT students, and continuing education webinars and classes for licensed therapists.