Tiffany Graham
Background
Tiffany is an Associate Professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. She received her bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science from Trinity University and her master’s degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She has served on the Academy’s Board of Directors Executive Committee and is a Past Chair of the AAOP Research Council.
Tiffany’s clinical career has been focused on pediatrics and she has specialized in Cranial Remolding since 2010. In addition to having multiple peer-reviewed published manuscripts, she is a three-time recipient of the Thranhardt Award.”
Why did you apply?
Orthotics 2020 (OPERF): I wanted to expand my research efforts which had been focused on retrospective chart reviews into a prospective clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of multidisciplinary treatment of deformational head shapes with cranial remolding orthoses and physical therapy as compared to the non-orthotic efforts of repositioning with physical therapy intervention.
Tamarack Award: I was encouraged by my peers to apply for the award based on the impact of my publications on coverage criteria for cranial remolding orthoses, mentoring and training efforts for cranial clinicians, patient advocacy efforts, and clinical expertise as a cranial remolding specialist.
How did the funding help you meet your goals?
Orthotics 2020 (OPERF): We were able to complete a prospective clinical trial which strengthens the evidence that cranial remolding orthoses are effective for the treatment of deformational head shapes using both 2 and 3 dimensional measurements, and adherence to treatment has a strong effect on CRO efficacy. To date, this project has produced 2 publications, 5 conference presentations, and 1 poster. Data analysis is ongoing.
Tamarack Award: The support of the O&P Community and the Foundation has been wonderful, encouraging, and extremely appreciated. It validates my past efforts and motivates me to continue studying the clinical treatment of abnormal head shapes in order to progress the evidence surrounding cranial remolding orthoses.
How did the funding impact your career?
Orthotics 2020 (OPERF): This award has promoted growth and expansion of my clinical practice. Through this study, we were able to track patients who did and did not pursue a CRO through one year of age, which provided valuable insight into the long-term results of both repositioning and CRO treatment when combined with physical therapy. I am able to discuss the results of this study with my patients and referral sources. This award not only expanded my research capabilities with an interdisciplinary team, but also provided insight into grant writing and maintenance which I am able to relay to my students and it encouraged me to apply for other funding opportunities.
Tamarack Award: National recognition with such a prestigious award provides support in applications for further research funding and my overall career progress.
What did the funding mean to you personally?
Orthotics 2020 (OPERF): This was my first grant and it provided the support needed to pursue research projects into prospective clinical trials. This provided a key launching point in my research and provided further opportunities where I have been able to partner with other researchers and clinicians for ongoing and planned future projects.
Tamarack Award: This award gave me personal validation and strong encouragement to continue and advance my efforts in teaching cranial remolding, studying treatment methods, and caring for infants with abnormal head shapes.
