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INNOVATION FOR INDEPENDENCE
ISSUE 83 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012 £6.95
Code launched for community equipment use By Dominic Musgrave THE first code of practice for community and other disability equipment has been launched in response to a series of critical reviews identifying serious clinical and financial failings. It aims to support public sector organisations to help them commission and provide services more effectively. According to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency every year in the UK there are more than 30 deaths and 1,500 serious incidents as a result of inappropriate and unsafe equipment supplied in the community. The code will be administered by a not-forprofit social enterprise, the chairman of which is the former chairman of the Disability Rights Commission, Sir Bert Massie CBE. He said: “Community equipment is a life saver for hundreds of thousands of people in the UK and is used every day in homes, hospitals, care homes, day centres and special schools. “This is about providing the right equipment at the right time which supports initiatives related to self-determination, independence, rehabilitation, early intervention and prevention, together with end of life care.
“The code should be used everywhere where people use community equipment.” One of the main aims of the Code of Practice is to deliver better clinical outcomes by reducing the number of injuries, illnesses and fatalities caused by unsafe and inappropriate equipment, and by equipment that is delayed or in some cases not provided at all. Author Brian Donnelly added: “Without community equipment or the correct community equipment, people are unable to live their lives as they should. “They may have to stay in hospital or require round-the-clock care provided by their local authority or even family members, which has significant economic and quality of life implications. In many cases, basic human rights are being violated. “Other industries operating in the health and social care arenas have been regulated by codes of practice for decades, such as the pharmaceutical industry, and it’s long overdue for community equipment. There are many fragments of legislation relating to the different aspects of these services, which are overly complex. The new code pulls together all duties and responsibilities into one coherent document.”
Athlete Jonnie Peacock, who is training for the 100 metres in the London 2012 Paralympics, has told national newspapers how meeting David Beckham triggered his sporting ambitions. Jonnie, from Cambridge, contracted meningitis as a child which resulted in his right leg being amputated below the knee when he was just five. When he was about six a local newspaper arranged for him to travel to the Euro 2000 tournament to meet England footballers including David Beckham.
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Apps could help sufferers regain their confidence Vaughan Powell and Lee Prior from Portsmouth and Julia Johnson and Professor Ray Chaudhuri from King’s College Hospital, London.
By Dominic Musgrave PEOPLE with Parkinson’s might regain their confidence communicating, thanks to Apps on their mobile phones.
They aim to develop two key functions to help people improve their speech: A feedback meter will help people see how loud their speech is compared to background noise and indicate what adjustment is required to be heard properly; and a voice training function to encourage people to speak more loudly, which can make them easier to understand.
Dr Roger Eglin, of the University of Portsmouth, hopes to develop two mobile phone Apps to enable the thousands of people with Parkinson’s improve their speech and allow them to be better understood by family, friends and healthcare workers. Roger, of the university’s Department of Creative Technologies, has been awarded a £35,000 innovation grant from leading research charity Parkinson’s UK to develop the Apps. Speech problems affect nearly three quarters of the 120,000 people with Parkinson’s in the UK. Problems communicating can also have a profound impact on quality of life, according to research. Roger said: “Many people with Parkinson’s already have and use mobile phones, making them a lowcost, simple and effective way for helping people improve their own speech. “We’ve already developed a basic
Dr Roger Eglin
Such Apps could also be used by health professionals to monitor progress remotely, making speech therapy cheaper and more accessible for those with Parkinson’s.
“We will be testing our application with people with Parkinson’s at every stage of development to make sure it is effective and easy to use.”
Roger added: “If we’re successful, we hope to develop useful mobile phone based applications which can help people with Parkinson’s who experience speech difficulties – helping them to communicate better with their families and friends and increasing their confidence in social situations.”
Roger will work with Peter Nolan,
The project is expected to last a year.
mobile phone application to improve speech, but it needs to be further improved and tailored specifically for people with Parkinson’s.
Contacts Editorial Judith Halkerston Group Editor editorial@assistivetechnologies.co.uk Dominic Musgrave Healthcare Editor Email: dm@whpl.net Tel: 01226 734407 Helen Williams Reporter Email: helenw@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734694
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Quadruple amputee Olivia helps launch annual lectures NEWS
By Helen Williams A CHARITY worker who had both her lower arms and legs amputated after contracting meningitis eight years ago has helped launch the Edinburgh Lectures – where speakers have included Stephen Hawking and The Princess Royal. Olivia Giles OBE joined Edinburgh’s Lord Provost George Grubb at the event in the National Museum of Scotland. She will deliver the fourth lecture of the series, entitled Extraordinary Feats, Extraordinary People.
An image from the exhibition.
Exhibition looks at the history of prosthetic limbs A NEW exhibition has opened in Edinburgh looking at the history of prosthetic limbs.
knee, made by Endolite in 2011, containing a micro-processor which deduces what the wearer is doing.
Reconstructing Lives at the National War Museum, Edinburgh Castle takes a fascinating and moving look at the experience of those who have lost limbs in war, whether military or civilian, and the technology which helps rebuild their lives.
In contrast, the simple but effective Jaipur leg, which is fitted to tens of thousands of people each year in poorer parts of the world, costs £30 compared with around £2,000 for an average western prosthesis.
It focuses on the prosthetic limbs that were developed to help them rebuild their lives, from armour-like iron hands of the 16th century through to 21st century carbon-fibre running blades, with real examples, powerful images, and the amputees’ own stories. Examples on display include an early 20th century wooden ‘Anglesey leg’, named after the Marquis of Anglesey, who lost his leg in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815; and an Orion
There is also a running blade worn by Chris Moon, who lost his lower arm and leg in Africa clearing landmines and now runs the world's toughest ultra-marathons. The exhibition also features prosthetic hands, ranging from a 16th century iron hand to the split hook designed by DW Dorrance in 1912, which is still in use today, and a modern i-LIMB hand. The exhibition runs until February 2013 and is free with admission to the castle.
Organisers appoint PR firm for campaign MOBILITY Choice, organisers of the annual Mobility Roadshow, has appointed iDIS Creative Marketing to enhance its online PR campaign. The Mobility Roadshow is the original and only mobility event of 4
its kind in the UK which solely focuses on the consumer. This year’s event, which is free to attend, takes place at The East of England Showground, Peterborough from June 21-23.
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Olivia, a former partner in an Edinburgh legal firm, now runs the charity 500 miles, which supports amputees in Malawi and Zambia by helping to buy prostheses and orthoses. Her speech, entitled The Power of Opportunity, will focus on how her perspective in life has changed and how her experience has encouraged her to grasp opportunities as well as deliver on them. She said: “Achieving the extraordinary is something we credit to only a very few individuals; however, I have seen the potential and capacity of ordinary people to achieve incredible feats when they want to
Edinburgh’s Lord Provost George Grubb with Olivia Giles.
– or have to.” This is the 20th annual Edinburgh Lectures, running from February to June. They will feature thoughtprovoking talks and include lectures from broadcaster Kate Adie OBE, Chariots of Fire film producer Lord David Puttnam CBE and the Dalai Lama, who will be touring Scotland this summer. Among topics delivered by speakers will be how someone can break boundaries in sport, access to education for the poor and a woman’s role in the field of astronomy.
Grant will help develop stand alone switch A CONSULTANT clinical scientist from Wales has received a £15,000 grant to develop an Electromyography (EMG) stand alone switch to improve user experience, accessibility and independence.
movement. Usually these switches require powerful computers, but Gareth’s project intends to create a switch that can work independently of other equipment.
Gareth Adkins, who works as the head of rehabilitation engineering at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, and his team, was awarded the funding by Devices for Dignity – an organisation that delivers technology solutions to support people with long-term conditions preserving their dignity and independence.
He added: “The unique group we have brought together includes medical electronics specialists, rehabilitation engineers and designers from the National Centre for Product Design and Development Research Medical Applications Group at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
It identified unmet clinical needs in two major areas of healthcare and ran a competition inviting anybody in the sector to apply for funding and support to turn innovative ideas into commercial realities.
“The group were keen to enter the competition as we saw it as a great opportunity to use a multi-disciplinary approach for the design and development of a device that would improve the lives of disabled individuals.”
An EMG or muscle action switch enables severely disabled users to independently control their environment or access communication with tiny muscle actions, sometimes their only reliable
The winners will have the opportunity to work with D4D and gain access to its national expert networks, resources and specialist clinicians throughout the process.
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Soldiers finish Atlantic row By Helen Williams
from his buttock.
THE Queen and Sir Cliff Richard were among those congratulating a crew of wounded British servicemen who triumphantly completed a rowing race across the Atlantic.
On arrival at Port St Charles, the crew telephoned current patients and staff at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Headley Court. Four of the crew had spent time at the centre recovering from their own life-changing injuries suffered during service in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The six, who have all served in the armed forces, formed the Row2Recovery crew for the epic 3,000-mile Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. They crossed the finish line at Port St Charles, Barbados, on January 25, after 51 days at sea in a 29ft rowing boat. Their loved ones and a huge crowd of locals were waiting to greet them. Sir Cliff, who has a home on the island, wore a Union Jack T-shirt to greet the group - Corporal Neil Heritage, Lieutenant Will Dixon, Corporal Rory Mackenzie, Lance Corporal Carl Anstey, and Row2Recovery co-founders Alex Mackenzie and Ed Janvrin. The Queen sent a message saying: “Please convey my warm thanks to all the members of the Row2Recovery team on the occasion of them reaching the end
The Row2Recovery crew who completed their Atlantic challenge in 51 days, from the left: Ed Janvrin, Carl Anstey, Rory Mackenzie, Alex Mackenzie, Neil Heritage and Will Dixon. of their row across the Atlantic, in aid of injured soldiers and their families. “I heard of the trials and tribulations on your journey and, in return, I send my good wishes to you all for the successful completion of the challenge.” During the journey the crew
experienced technical difficulties including a broken water desalinator that left them rationing for 17 days, a broken rudder, severe salt blisters and complications around their injuries. One of the crew, above knee amputee Rory Mackenzie, spent Christmas Day removing shrapnel
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After their first substantial meal since leaving La Gomera in the Canary Islands on December 5, Lt Will Dixon, who lost his lower leg in an IED blast in December 2009, said: “It’s been an incredible journey. But what has driven us on is the thought of those who have fallen and been severely injured. “We hope to have inspired some of them by proving it is possible to achieve extraordinary things after injury.” He said the crew’s primary mission had always been to raise £1m to help injured servicemen and their families, and they were hugely appreciative of the public support received. So far they have raised approximately £750,000.
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Tiny electric currents applied across regions of the brain can improve hand movements in recovering stroke patients for a short period, an Oxford University study has demonstrated. Dominic Musgrave reports.
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Stimulation technique could be a useful addition THE researchers are hopeful that developing this brain stimulation technique may provide a useful addition to standard physiotherapy in helping the recovery of stroke patients. The study involving 13 patients was able to observe a significant five to 10 per cent improvement in response times in making hand movements. The effect for this single treatment lasted for an hour or so. But neuroscience studies in other research areas have shown effects lasting months after daily application of this form of brain stimulation. “The improvements in movement and reaction times were significant,” said lead researcher Dr Charlotte Stagg of the Oxford Centre for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Brain at Oxford University.
“The brain stimulation technique is relatively cheap, easy to use and it’s portable. You could imagine physiotherapists using it in their practice in the future.” The Oxford team, for the next stage of their research, are currently recruiting around 30 stroke patients to a trial that will look at whether daily brain stimulation in addition to physiotherapy exercises can lead to tangible benefits after a period of three months. The researchers headed by professor Heidi Johansen-Berg, along with colleagues at the Oxford Centre for Enablement at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, set out to investigate whether a brain stimulation technique designed to increase the activity in the motor cortex would improve hand movements in people who had had a stroke.
“Patients certainly noticed them, but they were short-lived. However, we are very hopeful that daily brain stimulation would lead to longerlasting improvements.
The brain stimulation technique, called transcranial direct current stimulation or TDCS, involves passing a small electrical current of about 1 milliamp across part of the brain using simple pads placed on the outside of the head.
“This was a study in a small group. Large-scale trials would be needed before concluding that the approach benefits those recovering from strokes.
It is a relatively new technique but is known to increase the ‘excitability’ of neurons in the targeted region of the brain. It has been shown to be safe in many
Electric currents being applied to a patient.
studies: if anything, people may feel a slightly tingly or itchy sensation on their scalp. The study included a wide range of patients who’d had a stroke at least six months previously – aged from 30 to 80, both sexes, and different types of stroke. The patients carried out a simple task involving a hand movement in response to images on a computer screen three times – before, during and after brain stimulation using
the electric current for 20 minutes. “The improvement was almost immediate. It really did work,” added Charlotte. “The approach seems to have an effect in a wide range of stroke patients. Those who had seen least recovery from their stroke seemed to show most improvement in this simple test.” The study was funded by the NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, the Dunhill Medical Trust and the Wellcome Trust.
Petition to save amputee beds launched by charity US show follows women’s lives A NEW reality TV show following the personal lives of four women who are confined to wheelchairs is set to launch in April.
left her without the use of her torso, arms or legs, while Auti Angel, 42, was a successful hip-hop dancer before a car smash in 1992.
No limits: Push Girls is a 14-episode series which will air on US-based Sundance Channel. The women are all paralysed from the neck or waist down.
Model Tiphany Adams, 28, survived a drunk-driving crash in high school year that left three of her friends dead, and Mia Schaikewitz, 32, a former competitive swimmer, lost the use of her legs after a rare type of brain haemorrhage at the age of 15.
Angela Rockwood, 36, was an actress before a 2001 car accident 6
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CAMPAIGNERS are protesting against plans to close beds for amputees at St Georges NHS Trust in Roehampton, London.
The petition, which calls for a new 12-week consultation, has been signed by 126 people and the Trust is now considering other options.
The trust wants to reduce amputee reserved beds from 14 to eight in the Gwynne Halford ward, Queen Mary's Hospital, as part of a scheme to improve neurorehabilitation services in south west London.
A spokesperson said the plans had been designed by consultants, nurses and therapists and added: “We have listened to the concerns and continue to meet with patient representatives for these services.”
A four-week public consultation was held last month on the Trust’s website.
Christopher Harwood, chairman of RLUG, added: “The limbless are to be the casualties in this plan. If the amputees beds are reduced then waiting lists grow for complex amputees who need to be inpatients and this delay clogs up other hospitals surgical units.”
Concerns raised were followed by a petition against the plans drawn up by campaigners from charity Limbcare and the Roehampton Limb User Group.
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Physio supports GB skaters at competition BERKSHIRE physiotherapy manager Julia Ferreira has been supporting British ice skaters during the recent European Figure Skating Championships at the Motorpoint Arena in Sheffield. This is the first time in 20 years that the championships have been held in Britain, and Julia, who lives in Cookham, is the honorary physiotherapist for the National Ice Skating Association.
By Dominic Musgrave A TEAM of Salford physiotherapists has won a prestigious Chartered Society of Physiotherapy award for a project to reduce NHS sick leave which saved more than £25,000.
She said: “Even top skaters suffer falls. The trick is to prepare your body properly and to learn how to minimise the severity of the fall.”
Musculoskeletal disorders and back pain are the main causes of short and long term sickness in the NHS, with 40 per cent of ill health retirement costs being attributed to these illnesses.
Julia has worked with the Team GB squad of skaters throughout the year providing advice, treatment, rehabilitation programmes and injury profiling. Julia, physiotherapy manager at BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital, Windsor, has been in the role for the last four years. She has been providing physiotherapy assessment and
Salford sick leave project wins accolade
Julia Ferreira
treatment to the team ranging from first aid for skate blade cuts to strapping up strains or sprains, and from treatment for bruises to soft tissue massage.
The University team worked with Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust to design ‘Working Well’ - a rehabilitation service to help staff with musculoskeletal conditions who are struggling to stay in or return to the workplace. The project was started up with a Health Foundation SHINE award for innovation in 2010. Working Well provides rapid access to a specialist occupational physiotherapy case manager to treat aches, pains and associated mental health problems such as stress, anxiety or depression. It also provides preventative support
to avoid sickness absence in the first place and links in with other specialist agencies to provide a coordinated and holistic approach. Christine Parker worked with colleagues in the School of Health Sciences on the project. She said: “Working Well provides staff with the support they need to stay healthy and in work which is crucial in these challenging times. “Hopefully winning this award will encourage the sharing of best practice so that more NHS staff can be helped.” The University evaluated the scheme after it had been in operation for 12 months and found that sick leave costs had been reduced by £25,500. It also produced significant improvements in general health, psychological wellbeing and job satisfaction levels among staff. The obvious benefits of the service led the team to win the ‘Research into Practice’ category at the recent Chartered Society of Physiotherapy’s Service Excellence Awards.
Robots to form part of University stroke research
Team has Everest aim WALKING With The Wounded has set its ambitions higher following the success of last year’s North Pole expedition – and now plans to place the first group of wounded servicemen on the summit of Mount Everest.
unpredictable climbing conditions.
They could even be joined for part of the trip by their patron Prince Harry, who also accompanied them on a four-day trek during last year’s Polar expedition.
The expedition will consist of two parts. For the first, all nine wounded servicemen will endure a gruelling seven-day trek from Namche Bazaar in Eastern Nepal to Everest Base Camp, which stands at 5,380m. From here, only the fittest five adventurers will continue for the assault on the summit.
In May a group of nine will attempt the life-changing journey to the highest peak in the world. The group consists of four members of the base camp team and five members of the summit team. Climbing Everest is considered one of the toughest challenges in adventure exploration and the climbers will be required to overcome obstacles like altitude sickness, immense fatigue, deep crevasses covered with treacherous snow bridges and 8
The ascent is considered one of the most dangerous and difficult journeys for humans to undertake, and the adventurers will be doing so with the added challenge of the injuries they have received in the line of duty.
Walking With The Wounded aims to raise money to re-skill and re-train injured servicemen and women from the British Armed Forces. It also aims to raise a further £2m for identified education projects and training courses, which specifically account for both physical and mental injuries sustained by servicemen and women.
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ROBOTS will be used to help people recover from strokes as part of a three-year research project by the University of Sheffield, in partnership with experts from across Europe. The new FP7 European project, entitled Supervised Care and Rehabilitation Involving Personal Tele-robotics, will involve the development of the hand and wrist. The treatment will be delivered during the chronic phases of stroke rehabilitation. The researchers aim to establish a tele-robotic communication platform which patients can use in their own homes and which can be managed remotely, therefore reducing the number of hospital visits needed. The project will also focus on adapting a robot’s interaction capabilities to those required for a therapeutic interaction. This would allow for a more natural interaction. Gail Mountain, professor of Health
Services Research at the University of Sheffield´s School of Health and Related Research is one of the principal investigators. She said: "The Sheffield contribution to the SCRIPT project will be located in the skills and knowledge that we have gained through leading and being involved in previous interdisciplinary technology development projects for people with stroke. “Through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council funded SMART Consortium we have designed and tested technologies for stroke rehabilitation and self management, combining user centred design and health services research methods. “We are very pleased to have the opportunity to apply and further develop this work in SCRIPT which we hope will improve access to rehabilitation and ultimately quality of life for people who have had a stroke.”
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Prosthetic fingers give Michal chance By Helen Williams
He was taken to hospital, but it was found that two of his fingers could not be saved. A third finger was also removed shortly after as it did not survive, despite treatment.
Michal is now getting his life back to normal with his i-LIMB digits. The custom made fingers are controlled using electrical, force-sensing resistors.
Following the accident, Michal struggled with everyday tasks and could not return to work.
The user is able to activate these to move the fingers with considerable accuracy and sensitivity, mimicking the function of natural digits.
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A BRISTOL man who lost three fingers in an industrial accident has been given a second chance to carry on life as normal thanks to prosthetic technology.
Kim Cochrane gets creative with patient Rita Gledhill.
Creative group launched EAST Cheshire NHS Trust’s occupational therapy department has launched a new creative therapies group at Macclesfield District General Hospital to improve the health and outlook for stroke patients in the region. The group is led by Kim Cochrane, occupational therapist at the Trust, and is held weekly. The group provides an opportunity for stroke patients to work on an art or craft project ranging from card
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Michal Takac was using a printing machine at a packaging plant where he worked when his hand became trapped between two feed rollers.
Michal said: “After the accident I felt so low, as I had so much taken away from me. I couldn’t work or carry out normal everyday tasks such as picking up a glass. The solutions offered by Touch Bionics are incredible. I was truly overwhelmed the first time I heard about the i-limb digits and to now have two new bionic fingers that actually respond and move is amazing.”
making or painting to taking part in group projects. Kim said art therapy enables a person to communicate the way they are feeling through the art they produce. She added: “When a patient has had a stroke they not only lose physical abilities, such as being able to use their hands, or walk, but also they may also lose their confidence. If their speech has been affected then it can be difficult to communicate and socialise.”
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His trade union, Unite, put him in touch with solicitors and the subsequent compensation allowed Michal to investigate technology that he otherwise would not have been able to afford. Four years after the accident, he now has two prosthetic fingers from the company Touch Bionics and the third finger which he lost has been replaced by his toe.
The process of learning to use i-limb digits is assisted by trained prosthetists who make use of computer software called biosim-pro. This allows them to connect wirelessly from their computer to the controller inside the fingers and so help users select the grip patterns and hand features that best suit their needs.
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New service for people with musculoskeletal disorders launched By Dominic Musgrave OTTO Bock Healthcare has launched a new Private Orthotics Service that will deliver advice, support and affordable solutions for people suffering from musculoskeletal disorders. Individuals looking to correct a broad range of orthotic conditions, such as ligament damage, sports injuries or chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and cerebral palsy can now be treated by professional orthotists in the West Midlands, Staffordshire and Surrey. Orthoses are externally applied devices that can be used to correct characteristics of the neuro-muscular and skeletal systems through the application or redirection of force. These devices range from insoles for correcting posture through to braces to help ease drop foot, a condition sometimes found in stroke patients. Ottobock provides a full range of support and soft orthoses products for joints, ligaments, fractures as well as paralysis.
“At Ottobock we’re dedicated to creating and providing solutions for people with restricted mobility and helping them gain, or regain their freedom to move,” said Brian Hopkins, head of orthotics at Ottobock UK. “We’re delighted to be able to offer access to highly trained orthotists at these new Private Orthotics Services throughout the UK and we hope our innovative product range will provide stabilisation, relief and correction to patients of all ages.” Staffed with highly professional, dedicated orthotists who can prescribe a wide range of devices to meet the specific needs of the individual, the new Private Orthotics Service is available at three Otto Bock clinics based in Birmingham in the West Midlands, Rugeley in Staffordshire and Egham in Surrey. An initial orthotic biomechanical assessment is £50, with the cost of all subsequent fitting and review appointments covered with the purchase of an orthotic device.
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Oscar Pistorius and the rest of the Ossur team.
Capital date for athletes INTERNATIONAL media converged on London's Tower Bridge to meet Team Össur’s elite sporting heroes including Oscar Pistorius, April Holmes, Marlon Shirley and Jerome Singleton, along with a further nine world-class athletes. Part of the discussion focused on prosthetics, with Össur’s technical specialists on hand to answer questions and chief executive Jon Sigurdsson spelling out the company’s commitment to its team. Oscar broke new ground in 2011 by reaching the semi-finals of the 400 metres at the World Athletic Championships in Daegu, South
Korea, and as a member of the South African relay team he won a silver medal. He is the first ever amputee to compete in the world championships and has qualified for London 2012. However, he has been the subject of global controversy with critics saying that his artificial lower legs give him an unfair advantage over able-bodied runners. Oscar said: “I do believe in showing people that those living with disabilities shouldn't be subjected to the stereotypes and stigmas that they have been for so many years. And we shouldn't be scared to talk about disability.”
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A former Paralympian who lost a leg to cancer at the age of 17 failed in his attempt to make the epic journey to reach the South Pole a century after Robert Falcon Scott and Roald Amundsen raced to be the first to achieve the feat. Dominic Musgrave reports.
Chest infection puts paid to Marc’s South Pole trek MARC Woods, who won four swimming medals in an illustrious career, was using a specially adapted prosthetic leg and was having to pull a pulk weighing 70kg a total of 750km to the South Pole. He and his team mate James Mark, known as 'Team SladenWoods', had to negotiate crevasses and snow bridges that rise 3000m above sea level, temperatures of -50C, winds of 80mph and blinding snowstorms on the 750km trek. They were raising money for Mencap. But disaster struck almost 170km into the race when Marc was forced to withdraw with a chest infection. The duo had been leading at one point. A spokesman for the team said: “Marc has shown throughout his life that he is a winner. No one more than he will be feeling the lows of not continuing in the race. But I know of no winner throughout history that has not had to suffer a setback.
“What sets true winners apart is how they respond and bounce back. “We are so proud of them both and proud to have supported the team. We are looking forward to getting them home safely and I know it will not be long before we are planning the next adventure together.” Five other teams took part in the race, which took approximately 25 days, including Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton, who is attempting it on an ice bike for Sport Relief. Ahead of the trek Marc said: “People wouldn't expect myself, an amputee, to be doing what I am doing and I think this race is a chance to challenge views and raise money for charity at the same time. “I swam for Great Britain for a long while and that was great but I retired a while ago and I was due a new challenge. This seemed like a good opportunity to have a go. It was definitely something that was outside
Marc at the start of the race.
of my comfort zone in a lot of ways. “I’m not the fastest skier especially when dragging 70kgs but I can ski straight and when faced with a landscape with no discernible features this is a very useful attribute.” Marc’s decision to take part in the race meant extra work for his prosthetist, Bob Watts, from Ringwood-based Dorset Orthopaedic, who has been working with him for many years. Bob adapted a specially designed artificial leg to cope with the rigours of the expedition.
Marc in training.
Picture credit: Extreme World Races
well as four liners that helped change the socket size as Marc lost weight. A crash course in substituting the various parts was also required. “I don’t wear the limbs that look good, that look realistic, it’s not about that for me – it’s about comfort,” added Marc, who celebrated his 43rd birthday during the expedition. “It’s the quality of the socket Bob can make for me. I knew he would make a limb for me that would help me do the things that I wanted to do.”
At the temperatures experienced in the Antarctic stainless steel becomes brittle so this was substituted with titanium.
The weight of the pulk also presented Bob with an extra challenge, the first Elite Blade carbon foot he had made was a good foot but not flexible enough when pulling a 70kgs pulk, so this was taken as a spare.
Furthermore, the average weight loss on these expeditions is two stone meaning an additional smaller socket for the prosthesis was required as
The solution to more flexibility came from Ossur who made a special carbon blade that suited Marc’s needs.
Firm to use investment to develop new products BLATCHFORD is doubling its research and development (R&D) investment and has new product launches planned – including its first microprocessor-controlled foot. The global supplier of prosthetic and orthotic products and services has leased 30,700 sq ft on a 15-year lease at Basingstoke’s Kingsland Business
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Park to meet its new space requirements. It has taken one of four ‘Antura’ units at the park and will be using the building for its R&D work, as well as creating new office space for its head office team, a patients’ clinic and additional warehousing space. The detached production and warehouse building has first
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floor office space, ground floor reception area and 80 car parking spaces. Blatchford, which already has a presence in Basingstoke, has a number of new product launches under wraps, including more electronics-based innovations. Chief executive officer Stephen Blatchford said: “We were looking for new premises which
would provide the space we need for our R&D growth plans and a new base for our head office team. “This unit was the obvious choice, in terms of its size and appearance, providing an attractive building which will give the right impression to our UK and international customers.”
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Leeds orthotics company moves to larger premises By Helen Williams A WEST Yorkshire orthotic product manufacturer is growing its services after a move to larger premises.
AN insight report on assisted living published by Scottish Enterprise looks at the global challenges and opportunities for Scotland in home medical equipment and digital healthcare.
Crispin Orthotics, which employs 36 staff, has moved from its Leeds premises near Elland Road to a larger 12,500 sq ft ‘manor house’ style property in Morley. It is 20 per cent bigger than Crispin's previous base and the company plans to use the extra space in the manor house to create private consulting rooms to accommodate the company's ten clinicians. Managing director Mark Thaxter said the new premises also had an adjacent single storey extension providing workshop space for the company’s manufacturing operations. He added: “The move will help us further develop the clinical side of the business. We aim to set up a gait analysis lab with a walkway and cameras and also a sports section.” NatWest’s commercial banking team in Leeds provided the company with a loan to help complete the purchase.
New report investigates challenges for Scotland
Crispin’s new headquarters in Leeds.
Much of Crispin’s work is with NHS trusts and, given shrinking NHS budgets, Mark intends to generate more private sector clients such as sports clubs. Mark said Crispin is already differentiating itself from the competition via unique products in silicone and carbon fibre and also its work to develop clinics and relationships with GPs. He added that the move, combined with a new website launched at the end of last year, would help the busi-
ness move towards this. “We are committed to providing customers with the complete orthotic solution from one location, ranging from an initial consultation through to the manufacture and fitting of the product.” Established 30 years ago, Crispin designs, manufactures and sells a range of orthotic products to customers throughout the UK, including some leading football clubs.
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The older population and debilitating chronic diseases – many linked to lifestyle rather than age – are predicted to rise rapidly over the next 40 years and that means current healthcare systems will have to adapt to cope. The report points out that Scotland has a large base of medtech companies as well as key academic strengths in medical technology, with specialised institutes such as the Strathclyde Institute of Medical Devices and The Institute for Medical Science and Technology.
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Glove may lower consultation time NEWS
By Dominic Musgrave RESEARCHERS in Ireland are developing a bespoke ‘data glove’ fitted with sensitive movement sensors which they hope will minimise the time needed for consultation of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The team from the University of Ulster and C-TRIC are working in collaboration with the Western Health and Social Care Trust and the Tyndall National Institute in Cork on the project, which uses advanced software developed by the School of Computing and Intelligent Systems at the University. Funded by the Science Foundation with support from C-TRIC’s BioEntrepreneur Programme and the DEL PhD fund, they hope the new glove will improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment. They believe this would also make huge savings for the health service. University of Ulster academic Dr Kevin Curran said the Tyndall data glove will be able to integrate real time movements of the hand to allow detailed observations and measurement of each patient’s hand and wrist movements. He added: “If patients are to receive the care needed to manage their
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condition and doctors the time to assess their condition thoroughly, more accurate and less laborious methods to record joint movements are needed. “Measurement of joint range is used to establish a baseline and to record progress but this requires exhaustive personal examination and can be very labour intensive. “Current measurement techniques are either invasive like x-rays or have an over reliance on manual evaluation, such as vision and touch, both of which are very dependent on training and experience and results can vary widely between observers. “Data gloves have been used before to measure joint movements but they were not fitted with sufficient sensors on each finger and deformities and swollen joints caused the sensors to record inaccurate readings. The bespoke glove we are developing will give more precise and detailed readings.” Although the data glove is being developed with rheumatoid arthritis sufferers in mind, there are many other possible applications of a wearable sensor glove, for example rehabilitation of hand injuries, where accurate clinical measurements are essential.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
The glove being designed by University of Ulster researchers.
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Special recognition for robotics project ROBOTICS technology from research led by the University of Reading to support older people living at home has received special recognition from the president of the EU.
physiological signs and moods, diary management, aide memoire services, for example reminders for taking medicines on time, and, setting up video-conferencing sessions.
The CompanionAble Project, led by professor Atta Badii, of the School of Systems Engineering, was selected as one of only two initiatives from 50 star projects to be shown to JoseManuel Barroso and the EU commissioner for research, innovation and science Marie Geoghegan-Quinn at the European Innovation Convention in Brussels.
In emergencies, such as a fall, Hector can help the remote control centre assess how serious the fall is and what kind of emergency help may be needed.
One of the stars of the project, Hector the Companion Robot, welcomed the EU delegation to the stand where Atta demonstrated some of its capabilities as an assistive companion robot.
“Without cognitive stimulation, elderly dementia and depression sufferers can deteriorate rapidly and their carers will face a more demanding task; both groups are increasingly at the risk of social exclusion."
Hector is able to care for frail older people and those suffering, for example, from early Alzheimer's disease so they can remain in their own homes. The robot can be used standalone in any home or as care support within a ‘smart' home integrated with a remote control centre to provide assistance in emergencies. The range of care support facilities includes monitoring vital
Atta said: “There are widely acknowledged demographic, economic and social imperatives for helping the elderly live at home semiindependently for as long as possible.
The CompanionAble project, cofunded by the European Framework 7 Research Programme, with a total budget of around 12m Euros is a four-year integrated research project led by Atta as the technical and scientific co-ordinator of the project working with 17 other partners who have contributed to the project from six countries across the European Community.
York physio appointed new association chair DR HELENA Johnson, head of subject for physiotherapy at York St John University, has been elected chair of council of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
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Helena, who joined York St John University in September 2007, received the honour at the Society’s annual congress. As head of subject she leads a team of physiotherapists who deliver pre-registration and postgraduate physiotherapy education. This also includes continuing professional development opportunities for assistants and a range of allied health professionals.
Helena Johnson
Helena said: “The role at the CSP enables me to keep up to date with changes across all health sectors in the UK, as well as in Europe and more globally.
Helena has 20 years of experience of working in the NHS as a clinician in senior posts. She has worked with a range of clients and health professionals in clinical specialities in the acute sector and in other environments including community paediatrics and the prison service.
“This helps enhance the curriculum for students on the physiotherapy programmes at York St John University. The team here prepares our graduates to work in any setting where physiotherapy is needed.”
In 1998 a change in career direction led her into academia, beginning at Northumbria University as a senior lecturer in physiotherapy and moving to Teesside University from 20022007.
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BAPO organisers in call for meeting papers BAPO is inviting papers from prosthetists and orthotists who wish to share and improve their clinical practice by participating in the clinical meeting. The one-day event offers the opportunity to platform free papers to share with colleagues. BAPO is looking for 12-minute presentations with up to three minutes for discussion.
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Submission guidelines: I Topics should be on a single aspect of patient care. I Provide a 200-word summary or abstract describing the content of your presentation. I Provide information on how this research/method of practice is being implemented. Acceptance of papers is at the discretion of BAPO.
The venue for this event is the UCL Institute of Child Health in central London, which is well served by transport links from all over the UK.
Submissions should be sent to the BAPO Secretariat at Sir James Clark Building, Abbey Mill Business Centre, Paisley, PA1 1TJ.
Six papers will be selected, three from each discipline, with successful applicants notified in writing.
Members and non-members can register and pay online for the event at www.bapo.com
Sports and Rehab among zones at Naidex National Training added Germany’s Vanessa Low demonstrating the long jump at Paralympic Day 2010.
A NEW feature of this year’s Naidex National will be a Sports and Rehab zone, dedicated to sports products like specialist wheelchairs and rehabilitation equipment such as Functional Electrical Stimulation.
Naidex National 2012 takes place from May 1-3 at the Birmingham NEC with a growing list of exhibitors from across the UK and overseas including Otto Bock, Trulife, Bioness and RSL Steeper. The event, which usually attracts around 360 exhibitors, will also showcase the latest specialist exercise equipment for home rehabilitation at The Independent Living Show. Visitors will be invited to tour a mock-up house to see how new products work within the home and how they can improve independence, quality of life and productivity of users. Other attractions include a ‘Meet the Experts’ area, where, for example, occupational therapists will give advice to the public about home adaptations, and the KideQuip area dedicated to children’s equipment and services. Naidex marketing manager Arriana Catania said: “One highlight of this area will be a ‘trailblazer’ - a truck and mobile assessment unit provided by Treloar College for
to attractions at Leipzig show Event organiser Liz Logan.
physically disabled students in Hampshire.” Healthcare professionals will benefit from the free Naidex CPD Conference which will offer strategic and clinical seminars covering a wide range of topics. Workshops and seminars will be dedicated to prosthetics and orthotics as well as occupational therapy and physiotherapy. Event director Liz Logan said: “This is a great way for professionals within the health and disability industries to not only enhance their continuous professional development portfolios but also to receive free career advice.” Naidex is the UK’s largest homecare, disability and rehabilitation event. Among pioneering products unveiled at last year’s show was the Rewalk, an exoskeleton that helps paraplegics to stand and walk.
TRAINING for young professionals will be among new themes at an international orthopaedics and rehabilitation show in Leipzig, Germany. The Orthopadie + Reha-Technik 2012 exhibition takes place from May 16 to 18, and a World Congress offering more than 200 lectures runs alongside it from May 15 to May 18. The new ‘youth academy’ section is for technical orthopaedics and offers a special trainees programme. It will be complemented by an entrepreneurs’ meeting for the industry’s young businesspeople. UK exhibitors at the trade show include Ossur Europe, Otto Bock Healthcare, Algeos, and for the first time, Promedics Orthopaedic from Scotland. Algeos will have two stands at this year’s conference, Algeos Global and a stand representing its orthotic and prosthetic materials brand Aortha, established last year.
At the World Congress, keynote speakers will present developments from international research and, for the first time, there will be a ‘Meet the Speaker’ session. On the opening day there will be an overview of professional policy challenges, and on the following day, a discussion of prosthetics. Among UK speakers will be cerebral palsy expert David Condie. Orthopadie + Reha-Technik has a 37year history but has been held in Leipzig since the year 2000. It takes place every two years, and in 2010 attracted 21,000 visitors from 108 countries and 554 exhibitors. Over the last ten years, visitor numbers have doubled and exhibitor numbers have risen by 60 per cent. Other highlights of the 2012 exhibition include a focus on orthopaedic footwear technology, the ‘Campus,’ area where innovative businesses and academic institutions can present ideas, and a demo of how to build a wheelchair from start to finish.
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The technical director of one of the world’s leading prosthetics manufacturers has received the royal seal of approval from the Duke of Edinburgh. Helen Williams found out more.
Royal recognition for technical director Saeed THE shortlist for the Prince Phillip Designer’s Prize 2011 encompassed one of the widest ranges of design disciplines in its history, from museum design to hydraulic ankles – and even millinery for Kylie Minogue. Saeed Zahedi, from Chas A Blatchford & Sons, joined the line-up of internationally respected names such as Sir Paul Smith and architect Sir David Chipperfield. Saeed, among the leading designers of prosthetics, has been at the forefront of breakthroughs which make life better for amputees. He was presented with a Highly Commended certificate by the Duke. Using digital electronics and intelligent interfaces, Blatchford has developed a number of foot, hydraulic ankle and microprocessorcontrolled knee systems. Headquartered in Basingstoke, the company runs over 30 per cent of NHS prosthetics and orthotics
contracts, including the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Headley Court. It is the second time that the company’s design team has been chosen for an award, with Brian Blatchford, the current owner’s father, having been a winner in 1976. Brian then won the Duke of Edinburgh Designer Prize for development of the modular assembly prosthesis, where for the first time modern engineering principles were applied to the development of artificial limbs to increase their functionality. His son Stephen, who is now chief executive, and his mother Joyce were also at this year’s awards. Saeed, who received an OBE 12 years ago, said: “Brian Blatchford’s vision has lived on in our research and development team for the last three decades, and these awards are an opportunity to bring this vision to
Saeed Zahedi with Stephen Blatchford and his mother Joyce at the ceremony.
public attention. “Our products have advanced in line with the needs of today's young amputees who require independent living after experiencing injuries in recent conflicts. “When I was called to receive this special nomination, sitting between Stephen Blatchford, our chief executive who has steered us over the last 25 years to build on his father's aspiration, and Joyce Blatchford who has tirelessly guided us to adhere to principles that her husband set, I felt content and happy that we have completed a chapter in our history. This award was an endorsement of the highest level of our team achievement.”
Saeed Zahedi with the Duke of Edinburgh.
Saeed added that the prize recognised the creative and innovative nature of Blatchford’s work, and was a tribute to engineering and manufacturing in the United Kingdom. He said: “One of the greatest things any engineer can dream of is to apply engineering and advances in technology into rehabilitation of people who have lost limbs, restoring their function to the full. “I think we are one step closer to fulfilling this ultimate aim, and this award motivates us to move to the next chapter. “It is a great feeling to be part of this renaissance in prosthetics.”
Award-winning team developing smart technology PROFESSOR Saeed Zahedi works with a team of design engineers based at Bournemouth University.
technology to assist and inform in the fitting of lower limb prostheses to achieve sustainable comfort.
The team has attracted much attention for its world-leading work in prosthetics and was shortlisted in the 2011 Times Higher Education Awards – the Oscars of higher education – for Outstanding Engineering Research Team of the Year.
The work combines artificial intelligence and experimental methods to develop a prosthetic socket which can measure the interaction between the socket and the limb. It will be able to compensate for changes due to movement, fluid build-up and muscle wastage to make sure the device continues to fit the patient during walking, sitting, standing and manoeuvering over rough terrains.
It consists of professor Siamak Noroozi, Dr Phillip Sewell, Bryce Dyer, Professor John Vinney and professor Zahedi. They are developing smart 18
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
The Bournemouth University team, from the left: Bryce Dyer, professor Bogdan Gabrys, professor Siamak Noroozi and vice chancellor John Vinney.
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NEWS
The day that AT welcomed a Prince ... ASSISTIVE Technologies had its first Royal visitor last month when Prince Charles visited us and met the team behind the magazine for clinicians, therapists and equipment suppliers. His Royal Highness met managing director Michael Hewitt, group editor Judith Halkerston and sales director Tony Barry who showed him our portfolio of magazines as well as new technology associated with Script Media’s corporate video division. Digital media producer Simon Rodman demonstrated some of the
techniques used, including green screen, to produce broadcast quality videos. Judith said: “It was a real honour for us to welcome the Prince to the Assistive Technologies offices and we were all thrilled to meet him. “He seemed genuinely interested in the work that we do and was very friendly and put everyone at ease.” Prince Charles also visited other divisions of the Acredula Group, Script’s parent company, including the Barnsley Chronicle, Pen and Sword Books and Yorkshire Web.
Prince Charles chats to Assistive Technologies product manager Christine Daly-Sadler.
HRH Prince Charles learns more about Script Media from managing director Michael Hewitt and group editor Judith Halkerston.
Five minutes with Simon Mills, area sales manager covering East Anglia and North London for Beagle.
‘Industry is far more focused on contracts and pricing’ When did you become interested in the industry and why? I was working in Peterborough Hospital as an RAF Medic and was looking to leave the services, a colleague of mine put me in touch with Tyco and that is where my career started.
What's the biggest change you've seen in the industry? The biggest change is that the industry is far more focused on contracts and pricing. If you could make one recommendation to take the industry forward what would it be? To continue to support the home grown companies. What would you like to see happen to the industry in the future? To continue to work towards the ethos that the patient and
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ULTRASONIC waves used by bats have inspired an electronic cane which can help blind and visually impaired people to detect obstacles. York-based Sound Foresight Technology came up with the UltraCane, which vibrates when it is near objects so that the user can sense their way around.
How have you ended up where you are today? I have been lucky enough to work for a wealth of companies within the industry, all of which have led me to this role.
Bats inspire new cane for the blind
providing a five-star treatment to each patient come first. Is there one characteristic you need to work in this industry? I would say that tenacity and personality are some of the most important characteristics needed in this industry. How have consumer requirements changed over the years? Purchasers are much more focused on the pricing of a product. How do you see the next 12 months panning out for your company? What is your goal? My goal is to get on the road, provide training and development for my clients and clinicians.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
The original work was done by a team of British scientists at the University of Leeds and based on ‘biomimetics’ – the transfer of materials and techniques developed in nature over millions of years to 21st century technology. Recently demonstrated on a BBC Breakfast television report, the UltraCane incorporates sensitive obstacle detection sensors. It works by giving users ample warning of obstacles ahead of them, both in their path and at head height, and has two forward ranges of detection – two and four metres. It also detects objects above the wrist to approximately 1.6 metres. Alan Thorpe, a guide dog user and one of the visually impaired users who appeared in the BBC film, said the device provided a safer
The handle of the UltraCane. experience when negotiating unfamiliar areas or quiet streets. He added: “Overhanging bushes and trees can be a hazard but the cane gives some upper body protection that you don’t get with a normal cane or even a guide dog.” The cane’s handset is fitted with transmitters and sensors with two vibrating tactile buttons at the top. The user places their thumb to cover both buttons at the same time. One or both of the buttons starts to vibrate as soon as there is an obstacle and increases in intensity. It is now being used by people in 12 different countries including the USA, Japan and South America.
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New Year’s honour for stroke rehab professor By Dominic Musgrave
Marion came to Nottingham in 1983 to help establish one of the first stroke units in England, moving on to research in 1986 and working on a number of short-term research grants until securing her first University of Nottingham post in 1997 as Lecturer in Stroke Rehabilitation, a post funded by the Stroke Association.
A NOTTINGHAM professor who has dedicated her professional life to helping to rehabilitate people affected by stroke has received royal recognition for her work. Marion Walker, professor in stroke rehabilitation at The University of Nottingham’s Division of Rehabilitation and Ageing, has been awarded the MBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours.
She became Professor of Stroke Rehabilitation just 10 years later in 2007.
Marion, who also studied for two higher degrees at the university, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to receive this honour. “It is just fantastic that the work of stroke rehabilitation research at The University of Nottingham has been recognised in this way. Improving the quality of life of stroke survivors is central to all our efforts.” She started her professional life as an occupational therapist, qualifying in 1980 at the Glasgow College of Occupational Therapy and going on to become one of the first in the UK to be awarded a PhD. She then received a College of
Marion Walker has been awarded the MBE. Picture credit: The University of Nottingham.
Occupational Therapy Fellowship for pioneering a research culture within the profession. Her work was later recognised by her own peers when she was cited as one of the top 10 occupational therapists in the UK in the Independent on Sunday in 2002.
Marion has played a key role in influencing clinical guidelines on stroke care and rehabilitation and her current role at The University of Nottingham sees her heading up a £4m programme of work in stroke rehabilitation implementing the research findings from four studies. She is also currently working on research projects worth a total of £10m in stroke rehabilitation grants. Marion is now waiting to find out when she will travel to Buckingham Palace to receive her medal.She has been celebrating the news of her honour with family and friends after having to keep the news under wraps for around six weeks.
Change of date for amputee competition THE 2012 Amputee Games presented by LimbPower take place from May 12-13 at the Stoke Mandeville Stadium.
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This will be the fifth Amputee Games introducing amputees to disability sport, with the focus on using sport to aid rehabilitation. The event is supported by Blatchford, The Boost Charitable Trust, Stewarts Law and The Limbless Association and, to date, 370 amputees have benefited from taking part. The games are being held in May instead of August this year because of the Olympics and Paralympics. Participants can try over a dozen sports including football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, swimming, fencing and powerlifting. Food and accommodation is included and entrants pay a registration fee of £25.
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sponsors kids
KIDS
Jonjo plans ring return following years of rehab TEENAGE amateur boxer and amputee Jonjo Look is getting back in the ring after years of rehabilitation. Jonjo, 18, from Weymouth, lost part of his right leg in an explosion in May 2010 as he filled a gas canister to power a CO2 air rifle. Nine inches of his shin was severed and although doctors could have saved his leg, it would have been limp, so Jonjo chose to have it amputated. His right hand was also broken in 14 places, but has now fully healed. Angel Street with her occupational therapist Mary Morris
Specialist seating system helps Angel A SPECIALIST paediatric seating system from manufacturer Consolor is improving the quality of life for a six-year-old girl with quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Angel Street from Dorset was born with the condition which affects the movement in all her limbs and means she requires extremely specialist seating. Her parents and occupational therapist had assessed many different seating systems until they arrived at the fully adjustable Delfi PRO. The system has features including a Dynamic backrest which prevents the child from losing pelvic position in the seat. It also offers the user enhanced flexibility and independence as it can be fitted to any model of wheelchair or
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Jonjo was fitted with a prosthetic limb from Bournemouth’s prosthetic centre and learned to walk again in just two months.
He is now back in training at Dorchester Amateur Boxing Club. Before the accident, he won the 2010 Western Counties Championship and the Dorset Amateur Boxing Association of England Championship. He has always dreamed of turning professional, a dream which he still hopes to achieve. He said: “I thought I might not fight again and that was devastating. But the limbs available to me are pretty good.” Doctors have cleared the middleweight boxer to fight again and Jonjo is now waiting for the green light to compete from the ABAE.
powerchair and easily transferred between indoor and outdoor bases. In the nine months that Angel has been using the Delfi PRO her parents and teachers, at Langside School in Dorset, have noticed the change in her. Her mum Paula said: “If you or I are not comfortable this will affect our mood and the same is true with Angel who is now so much happier. “We can now enjoy days out as a family without having to transfer Angel, and with the recline function she can be moved to a more horizontal position when tired.” Consolor, based in Dorset, has provided bespoke specialist seating for customers including champion Paralympic archer Mel Clarke.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
A London school for students with special educational needs (SEN) is seeing excellent results from an interactive computer game based on body motion tracking technology. Charlton School, Greenwich, has students aged 11 to 19 with a wide range of abilities, including some with profound and multiple learning difficulties. It has been using the Timocco game to help with the cognitive and motor development of pupils. The game, which just needs a webcam and standard PC, features Timocco the monkey as its main character and is played via arm movements which are tracked by software and tracking controllers. It is used in clinics and at home as well as in schools.
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PODIATRY
sponsors podiatry
New use for gait technology By Helen Williams GAIT scanning technology more commonly used by podiatrists and physiotherapists is being put to a surprising use – investigating how rhinos carry their huge bodyweight. Foot scanning devices are normally used to help assess and diagnose (human) patients’ foot biomechanics. They measure distribution of force throughout a patient’s foot during each footstep, identifying high pressure areas and gait abnormalities. Now a team from the Royal Veterinary College in London is using the same technology to find out how the mechanics of rhinos’ feet are able to bear such a heavy load on a small surface area. They have trained three rhinos at Colchester Zoo to walk over electronic pressure pads so their weight distribution can be measured. Rhinos in captivity often have problems with their feet and though keepers can ease the pain by trimming their feet, more knowledge
is needed to ensure critical pressure points are not being cut away. Gait scanning technology is becoming more sophisticated and many practitioners report positive results – although some warn that the technology is not a substitute for a full professional diagnosis formulated on good clinical skills. Ronald Talens, physiotherapy manager at BMI The Chaucer Hospital in Canterbury, said he had seen successful results from TOG GaitScan, which allowed for a dynamic scan rather than a static one. He said: “There are few methods that can be used to look underneath a client’s foot while it is moving and then accurately feed back to the practitioner and client what is happening at each phase of the gait cycle.
Ronald Talens using the gait scanning technology.
“The system assesses a person’s need for prescription custom-made orthotics in the same way that an optician would prescribe a pair of glasses for the individual wearer.”
Rhinos at Colchester Zoo have walked over electronic pressure pads so their weight distribution can be measured. Ronald using the gait analysis with a client.
Our new-look features sections give you the opportunity to advertise your business on a page designated to your own specific field. To find out more ring Christine Daly-Sadler on 01226 734412.
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SPORTS REHABILITATION
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sponsors sports rehab
Scanner helps James make a speedy recovery By Dominic Musgrave A PROFESSIONAL rugby player tested the North’s only open-sided MRI scanner after failing to achieve an effective scan through a traditional closed unit. James Hall, who is now back in the Aviva Premiership with Newcastle Falcons following a knee injury in April, required a routine scan but was unable to remain still and in comfort because of the confined nature of the closed scanner. He said: “Because of my size I found it very difficult to lay still for a length of time and the closed nature and noise of the unit was quite stressful. “The open-sided scanner was able to achieve the same results but was
much more comfortable and spacious. I would certainly recommend an open sided MRI scan for larger people or those that have anxiety.” James visited the Newcastle Clinic in Jesmond which currently has the only open sided MRI scanner in the north of England. The clinic invested more than £700,000 for the state-of-the-art equipment after identifying that more than 10 per cent of patients referred for a traditional MRI scan cannot proceed because of claustrophobia or anxiety. Salwa Bowen, head physiotherapist at Newcastle Falcons, said: “MRI scanning is a regular requirement for the team, not just to diagnose
James Hall with the unit.
injuries but also as a routine part of the players’ healthcare programme. “We usually scan a player at least once a month and often need a speedy service to keep the boys fit and healthy on the pitch.” The scanner is completely open, providing a much more comfortable and relaxing environment. To help keep calm and to promote a stress free experience most patients are
able to read, listen to music and have a companion sat with them while they are being scanned. This is not possible with a closed scanner. It is also very quiet in comparison with a conventional tunnel MRI scanner and so is much less intimidating for children, who can see their parents and be reassured throughout the scanning process.
New centre to benefit athletes and public A NEW injury recovery centre costing £8.5 million – and for both elite athletes and the public – has opened at Moulton College in Northamptonshire.
recovery from intense training as well as reduce psychological stress and muscle and joint pain. It can also be used to treat conditions like rheumatism and psoriasis.
The Sports Therapy and Injury Rehabilitation Centre, only the second of its kind in Europe, has a range of cutting edge clinical facilities to speed recovery from various injuries and illnesses.
The centre also has a hyperbaric oxygen chamber to increase the healing rate of fractures, burns and skin grafts, and an infrared sauna and water therapy pool.
Facilities include a cryotherapy chamber that uses liquid nitrogen to cool air temperature, sometimes to extremely low levels. This can speed
The pool has an underwater exercise bike and treadmill for recovery from, for example, knee replacements, while an additional thermal therapy chamber can help
remove toxins and stimulate the immune system.
rooms for students using the nearby sports pitch.
The centrepiece of the development is a 25-metre swimming pool which will be open to local swimming clubs. It incorporates a moveable floor, enabling the depth to be adjusted to offer a variety of hydrotherapy treatments.
All the facilities and space at the centre will be available for rent, with new and established private consultants able to base themselves at the college, using the high-tech kit as well as consulting rooms and massage areas.
In addition, the centre will house lecture theatres and treatment clinics, including the dedicated facilities for hydrotherapy and cryotherapy, along with a biomechanics lab, and changing
College bosses are hopeful the NHS and special interest groups for people with long-term conditions such as multiple sclerosis will be interested.
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PRODUCTS
OACTIVE KNEE BRACE THE OActive is an off the shelf, lightweight, low-profile single upright osteoarthritis knee brace. Its laterally applied frame and hinge provide correction for either medial or lateral compartmental OA avoiding contact with the contralateral limb during gait. The OActive is perfect for bilateral brace users and also available as a made to measure brace if required. Strong and lightweight due to its low-profile fibre reinforced composite shells and aerospace grade aluminium hinges, it provides ultimate strength and support. Other features include quick release buckles, silicone grip liners to prevent migration and an optional calf wrap. Enquiries: For further information telephone Gilbert & Mellish on 0121 475 1101.
GILBERT & MELLISH PIEDRO SANDALS PIEDRO sandals are perfect for children who require orthopaedic stability footwear for conditions such as cerebral palsy, varus or valgus instabilities and other medical conditions. Piedro stability sandals feature high and extended corset stiffeners that fixate the subtalar joint and stabilise the talo-crural joint. Extra depth lasts provide enough space for the removable footbed (included) which can be replaced by custom foot orthoses. Piedro sandals are perfect for the spring and summer months ahead and are available in a wide variety of styles and colours, in sizes 18–42 and in three widths – 3, 4 and 5. Enquiries: For a copy of the new brochure or for further information telephone Gilbert & Mellish on 0121 475 1101.
INTRODUCING THE DYNAPRO™ TORTICOLLIS ORTHOSIS THE DynaPro™ Torticollis Orthosis is the latest addition to the OCSI range of stock orthoses distributed by Trulife – available for next day delivery from their head office in Sheffield. Designed to treat lateral flexion of the head and neck, this new orthosis features a ‘Bend to Fit’ shoulder cuff which allows for quick and easy customisation to allow for restorative torticollis therapy. In addition, the semi-rigid heat moldable upright with ‘flex’ technology allows for a gentle stretch to reverse tissue shortening or manage lateral cervical flexion spasticity. Using the DynaPro™ Torticollis Orthosis can significantly improve functional alignment of the head and neck facilitating improved vision, swallowing and performance of ADL’s. Enquiries: For further information contact Trulife on 0114 261 8100 or email info@trulife.co.uk
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ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
Ian Leddy appointed TalarMade’s new MD LEADING international supplier of foot orthoses and orthopaedic supports TalarMade has appointed Ian Leddy as managing director for UK-based operations. Ian has extensive senior management experience in the orthopaedic/ healthcare industry after many years as commercial manager with Trulife, where he managed their orthopaedic and breast care sales teams. He said: “TalarMade has achieved considerable growth and brand establishment over recent years. In particular they have built an enviable reputation for high quality innovative products coupled with first class customer services. “The past 12 months has seen TalarMade make significant investments in supply chain infrastructure, new product ranges and extensive marketing support. “The launch of a new catalogue and fully integrated e-commerce website
Ian Leddy during 2012 will provide an excellent platform for TalarMade to continue its growth and success.” Bernie Crewdson will remain in his position as chairman and will continue with hands-on management of the firm’s growing international market share.
Trulife launches catalogue TRULIFE has unveiled its Neuro Orthotics catalogue. It brings together a wide range of solutions including innovative Functional Electrical Stimulation technology for the treatment of dropfoot, static and air bladder orthotics and neuro-dynamic bracing, which provide stretch therapy for abnormal tone and managing spasticity. In addition to the catalogue’s introduction, and based on the success of last year’s educational programme which focused on the clinical application of an ankle foot orthosis for the neurological patient,
Trulife will continue to deliver neuro based educational sessions throughout 2012. Elaine Nelson, lead orthotist, said: “From the outset our educational programme, which we modelled in the south east region, has been very well subscribed and the feedback has been incredibly positive. “In view of this, the programme will be rolled out nationally with the key learning focus on basic patient assessment, biomechanics of gait, orthotic intervention including tuning orthoses and applying electrical stimulation.”
CUSTOM CTLSO - WHEN THE REST JUST WON’T DO BEAGLE Orthopaedic houses a large spinal database of spinal models to suit a variety of patients. From this extensive library we can manufacture your CTLSO using measures provided from a simple measurement chart. We then adapt the relevant model to meet the specification. Each orthosis is fabricated to the patient’s unique model and your specifications, ensuring the optimum fit, support and comfort. A transfer pattern can be applied to the brace if required. CTLSO’s are available as a bi-valve design finished to completion, no intermediate fitting, with a variety of liners such as cool foam, north foam 33®, evazote® and lamb’s wool. The TLSO is then coupled with components from the innovative Aspen CTO to provide exceptional stability required for your patient in the upper thoracic and cervical region. This design offers a step-down reduction for on-going rehabilitation therapy and a highly effective motion restriction with a level of comfort that makes it easily tolerated by patients, enhancing compliance. Available in paediatric and adult sizes, the CTLSO can be delivered in three days - or less for urgent/trauma cases. Enquiries: For a measurement chart telephone Beagle on 01254 268788.
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