Advancing technology to improve lives.
Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center (NUPOC) is dedicated to helping people affirm their lives with hope, independence and enthusiasm by advancing technology and knowledge about prostheses and orthoses. We are committed to the education and training of professional prosthetists, orthotists, rehabilitation engineers and other rehabilitation professionals; the design and application of prostheses and orthoses; and improving human interactions with prosthetics and orthotics systems.
Master's Program
As the largest and oldest accredited P&O training institution in the hemisphere, our Master of Prosthetics-Orthotics graduates are well prepared for residencies, certification and successful careers.
Explore Our Center
NUPOC conducts its research and education within a clinically oriented environment that fosters provision of effective prosthetic and orthotic treatments that enhance the independence and quality of life for individuals who live with a physical disability.
Research
The goal of our research is to improve the quality of life for people who use prostheses and orthoses through creative applications of science and engineering to the field.
Facilities
Our specially designed facilities on the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine campus combine state-of-the-art clinical teaching resources with extensive research capabilities.
Members
Our center members are highly respected experts in the field; browse their profiles to get to know more about them and see examples of their work.Meet the Models
Our volunteers and research subjects are an integral part of our work. Their participation enables NUPOC to collect data and contribute to new knowledge in rehabilitation engineering.
Barbara Jackson
"No matter you’re your age or cause of your amputation, it will be difficult, especially if you have low self-esteem. Just remember that you are not alone and life will go on. You can regain your joy in life by associating with other amputees. It helps get rid of discouragement and self-pity. Also, they can help you receive the support that you need."
Jane Curry
"From what I see, the entire attitude about living with limb loss has changed dramatically and for the better, particularly for women, who have a much greater issue with body image."
George Wedel
George generously gave his time and energy at NUPOC as an educational model for 40 years. The staff and students of NUPOC miss George, and we remember him with fondness and deep appreciation.
Ethel Giles
"I just love people."
Vertis Eatmon
"Seeing people who learned how to walk on prosthetic legs helped me get up and walk. So now I try to help other people who've lost their legs feel confident that they too will learn to walk."
Clarence Coakley
"My goal is to reach out to other men who also are living with physical disabilities. If I can touch one person, influence just one person to get out into the community, I will have done my job. If I can help other men who have disabilities, then my job would be complete."
Cindy Keane
"When I see someone who is sad, mad or swearing, those are people I want to talk to. Even in the gym, when I see people struggling but not making progress, I tell people that I am walking. I had to relearn everything. I try to give them hope that they will improve."
