Empower magazine issue 6

© Jim Bonney / Adventure Rehab

www.empowermagazine.org.uk

ISSUE SIX

EMPOWER It’s about ability, not disabilities

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNERS: 30 years of inspiration

solicitors

by

Happy 15th Birthday C-Leg®!

Yes, the C-Leg is now 15 years old and in that time, it has become the most popular Microprocessor Knee Joint ever launched.

To mark its success, we have decided to let you in on the celebrations too…

© Ottobock · 2014

From 1st October 2014, when you order a C-Leg you will also receive our 5 Year Extended Warranty free of charge*!

*Effective on all orders placed from 1st October 2014 and valid until 31st December 2014. This offer is only valid for C-Leg and cannot be combined with any other promotion. Offer applies to UK customers only.

Ottobock · 0845 600 7664 · www.ottobock.co.uk

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EMPOWER: OTTOBOCK

Louise Tait, the UK’s first ever C-Leg patient in 2014 with her daughter Rae.

Louise said: “Following the launch of the C-Leg, I was lucky enough to be the first person in the UK to try it out. I have been using a C-Leg for 15 years since its launch in 1999. Finding a knee that you trust builds confidence so everyday activities become more natural. You use less time and energy thinking about where you are stepping and more time just getting on with life. To get the most out of it you need to practice and it takes time and repetition but eventually you will be walking without constantly thinking about each step and when that happens, it’s a marvellous feeling.’

‘Even after 15 years I remember how brilliant the C-Leg felt the first time I tried it, how fluid the motion was and once I learned to trust it.

I can walk down slopes with confidence and the knee doesn’t give way or collapse. When I learned to walk step-over-step down stairs, it gave me a feeling of real achievement.”

Key benefits of the C-Leg include on-board sensors and microprocessors to anticipate and adapt to a person’s movement, the C-Leg immediately adjusts 50 times per second to changes in walking speed and direction, providing knee stability the moment it is needed. This optimised stumble recovery feature means users are able to walk down ramps and stairs step-over-step and manoeuvre on rough terrain with a greatly reduced fear of falling. Programmed via Bluetooth technology to match the unique gait of their sound leg, a user also has several different activity modes available to them that allow stances for biking, golfing, etc, and are activated using a remote control.

Ottobock celebrates 15 years of supporting amputees with C-Leg prosthesis Since its introduction in 1999, the C-Leg has helped over 40,000 amputees worldwide and become the most popular microprocessor prosthetic knee in history

O

ttobock, a world-leading supplier of innovative solutions for people with limited mobility, is celebrating 15 years of the C-Leg, the world’s first completely computer-controlled lower limb prosthesis.

Since its 1999 launch, the prosthesis has had a remarkable impact on many users and Ottobock has continued to develop its technology to the leg it is today. There are currently thousands of people around the world who are proud users of a C-Leg.

Louise Tait, the UK’s first ever C-Leg patient, became an above knee amputee in 1987 and had problems finding a socket that fit due to the shape of her stump, she was later fitted with the innovative prosthesis. She is still using a C-Leg over a decade later and thanks the microprocessor knee for allowing her to lead a life where she feels stable, does not have to worry about the function of her leg and has the confidence to tackle everyday situations.

Phil Yates, Managing Director of Ottobock UK states: “We are delighted to celebrate 15 years of the C-Leg and are proud to lead the way in microprocessor knee technology.

The C-Leg has been paramount to changing the way that amputees have been fit with prosthetic knees in the past 15 years and has changed many people’s lives by providing more stability, more flexibility, and a knee that responds differently in a range of circumstances. Ottobock is also very grateful to the talented Prosthetists and dedicated patients who have helped the development of the technology across the years.”

From the 1st October 2014, when you order a C-Leg you will receive Ottobock’s 5 year extended warranty free of charge*.

For more information on Ottobock’s range of innovative solutions that restore mobility please visit www.ottobock.co.uk or follow @ottobockuk. *Effective on all orders placed from 1st October 2014 and valid until 31st December 2014. This offer is only valid for C-Leg and cannot be combined with any other promotion. Offer applies to UK customers only.

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 03

EMPOWER: CONTENTS

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNERS: 30 years of inspiration

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20 51 14

With Thanks to: Douglas Bader Foundation / Wyn Jenkins, The EAFA, Meningitis Research Foundation, Fish Insurance / Pace Rehabilitation, Philip Sheridan, Skiing with Heroes, Nesta, CMSUK, New Law, oneathlete, Jim Bonney / Adventure Rehab, Rachael Horton - Change 4 Life, LimbPower, Euan’s Guide / Disabled Access Day & all advertisers.

Images Supplied by: www.professional-images.com, jim Bonney / Adventure Rehab (Front Cover) & thanks to all other image contributors.

Published & Designed by: © Publishing Magazines Ltd www.publishingmagazinesltd.com Contact Us: Address Publishing Magazines Ltd 30A North East Business & Innovation Centre, Wearfield, Sunderland, SR5 2TA

FEATURES 10 > NEWS:

Meningitis Research Foundation: Pushing the Boundaries

12 > INSURANCE:

Fish Insurance / Pace Rehabilitation

14 > REHABILITATION:

Philip Sheridan: Speaker, Poet, Blade Runner

20 > SKIING WITH HEROES: 22 > CASE MANAGEMENT:

Trish Gunning: Senior Case Manager, Proclaim-Care

26 > LEGAL:

Is amputation ever a choice?

Liz Phipps of New Law Solicitors

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37 > MOBILITY:

oneathlete: Strengthening important muscle groups

40 > INCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGIES: £50,000 Prize for enterprises and individuals to create new technologies

48 > PAIN MANAGEMENT:

Rachael Horton: Natural freedom from phantom limb phenomena ( Part 4 / 6 )

51 > SPORT:

LimbPower: How to get back into sport post amputation

56 > TRAVEL:

Disabled Access Day: It’s all about getting out there and trying something new

Follow us: @Empower_Mag

Telephone 0191 516 61 60 Email: (General Enquiries) sales@publishingmagazinesltd.com Email: (Production/Artwork Enquiries) studio@publishingmagazinesltd.com Website: www.empowermagazine.org.uk Twitter: @Empower_Mag © Publishing Magazines Ltd 2014.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and although every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, the publishers take no responsibility for errors and omissions. No responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for any claims made by the advertisers in this publication.

It’s all about you!

The SAMM Mid Wheel Drive Powerchair has a centre of gravity directly beneath you, so it turns on its axis and offers fantastic outdoor performance, range comfort and stability with superb indoor manoeuvrability due to its narrow base and low seat to floor height.

The SAMM offers adjustable seat frame with simple non-incremental adjustments for the width/depth of the armrest, seat and centre of gravity. It has been designed to accommodate various moulded or seating systems and offers flexibility in a powerchair that is suitable for your needs now and in the future.

With a wide range of powered options including seat lift, tilt in space and powered backrest, the SAMM Powerchair can be individually tailored just for YOU! The You-Q range is supported by a national network of Rascal Rehab Specialists across the UK.

Mid Wheel Drive base Contoured seating options Range of drive controls including Gyro 45 Degree seat tilt 160 kg user weight 4 / 6 / 8 mph with high torque 4 pole motor

Narrow Base of 24” Low seat height of 40.5cm (15.94“) Footplates & leg rest options Compatible with Dock & Lock

EMPOWER: FOREWORD

“

It’s all too easy (and I’ve seen this happen all too frequently) for an experienced amputee to talk about what they’ve been able to do or what they’ve achieved but it’s so important in these initial discussions to understand that this meeting is all about THEM and their fears and worries - so being able to listen is vital.

Website: douglasbaderfoundation.com

I

n 2008, at the age of 57, my world seemingly fell apart! I’d had 7 months of illness and various surgeries trying to rid my knee replacement of infection that had been negligently put there during keyhole surgery. In March 2008 the battle to save my leg was lost and I had my right leg amputated above the knee. Being self-employed, this period of illness and then the lengthy period of rehabilitation resulted in the loss of my businesses and subsequently our home - all pretty devastating at the time!

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Twitter: @douglasbaderfou

On the plus side, my rehabilitation at Rookwood hospital in Cardiff went really well and with the skill of my prosthetist - Ian Massey, I was soon up and walking and making good progress physically. My wife and I rented a house and although struggling financially, we came to appreciate the important things in life - health and family. The real problems came from not knowing what lay ahead and the obstacles that would have to be faced and negotiated and this is where the forum on The Douglas Bader Foundation site proved to be invaluable. It soon dawned on me that

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the best people to give you practical advice on living life with limb loss were other amputees. My prosthetist, although brilliant and highly skilled doesn’t have the first-hand knowledge of what it FEELS like to be an amputee.

We’ve had many discussions about this and I firmly believe that the DSC’s around the country should enlist the help of experienced amputees to help demonstrate good walking technique but that’s another topic for debate! As a former PE teacher, rugby player and marathon runner, exercise has always been a major part of my life - it keeps me fit and also enables me to keep things in perspective. It’s all too easy after suffering from a major physical set-back to become totally consumed by your changed circumstances and this can be very self-destructive. In my role as an Ambassador for The Douglas Bader Foundation, I regularly come into contact with new amputees and their families and have the privilege to listen to their numerous questions

INTERVIEW - WYN JENKINS and concerns. It’s all too easy (and I’ve seen this happen all too frequently) for an experienced amputee to talk about what they’ve been able to do or what they’ve achieved but it’s so important in these initial discussions to understand that this meeting is all about THEM and their fears and worries - so being able to listen is vital.

Having been an amputee now for six years, I’ve found the biggest plus in my life has been my ability to integrate fully with able bodied people as well as enjoying the company of my wide circle of amputee friends - that may sound like an odd thing to say! It’s all too easy to interact with people who have a shared experience and that’s why it can sometimes be difficult for spouses/partners to engage with your new circumstances and this can put a massive strain on relationships. As an amputee, your changed circumstances can have a profound effect on your immediate family and friends - their lives have to adapt too. I’ve found that through my love of cycling, this has ceased to be a talking point in our household. My prosthetist made me a cycling socket that allows me to ride my bike in complete comfort and after the initial hesitant period when you’re always worrying about stopping on your prosthetic side and falling off, this activity has given me a sense of freedom that I thought I’d lost forever.

I, together with my good friends at County Cycles in Cross Hands, decided to start a cycling club in our area and we now have 40 members. What’s particularly gratifying is that since we started the club, a further two amputees have joined as well as some other cyclists with health issues. When I’m riding with my club mates, they make absolutely no concession for my lack of horse-power on the hills as they know that if even if they initially get away from me, my higher cadence and bloody minded determination will see me haul them back eventually (that’s what I like to think anyway) - I love it and it’s great when these great friends sometimes forget that I’ve got a disability - it proves that they see ME and NOT my disability!

Exercise is a fantastic way for amputees to rediscover themselves - I say that because there’s a good chance you can fall into the trap of adopting a “victim” mentality. When you’ve lost a good chunk of your body and life becomes difficult, it’s understandable how this can lead to depression, so somehow, you have to be able to accept your changed circumstances to be able to move on with life - and so do your spouse/partner and family. It isn’t easy, and this is where the support of charities with focussed activities that are totally inclusive for disabled and able bodied are so important.

I’ve been having discussions with David Bickers of The Douglas Bader Foundation, to develop an idea I have to put on some holiday weekends in first class hotels that include cycling tuition for new amputees and the opportunity to ride safely on well supported routes with their families.

My wife started cycling last year and other than the health benefits, it’s given us so much joy to be able to do some vigorous exercise together again. This year we’ve been on cycling holidays to New Zealand and Southern Ireland in the company of good friends and these have been amongst the most enjoyable experiences

of our lives. Last year, another DBF Ambassador Margaret Biggs and I rode the length of Wales on a tandem supported by my able bodied club mates - it was essentially the launch event of TEAM BADER-CYCLING. It was a fabulous three days and testament to the “inclusivity” I’m so passionate about.

For more information about cycling as an amputee and future plans for TEAM BADER - CYCLING, please contact me at: wynjenkins57@btinternet.co

>> Written By: Wyn Jenkins, Ambassador for The Douglas Bader Foundation

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 07

EMPOWER: NEWS - THE EAFA > Pictured: Hiro Fukutomi, Takeda UK’s Managing Director, with the GBAF team

Inspirational Great Britain Amputee Football Team head to the Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico

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NITED KINGDOM, 18th November 2014 – Thanks to additional support from pharmaceutical company Takeda UK, Britain’s inspirational amputee football team are off to compete in the Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico.

Staged every two years, the championship is fiercely contested by amputee football teams from 24 countries. Takeda UK’s £10,000 donation means the team has now raised enough to send Team GB to the prestigious event in December.

Great Britain Amputee Football (GBAF) player-manager Dave Tweed said; “We’re absolutely delighted that Takeda UK is once again helping us. All the players are passionate about the game, but we have to do all our own fundraising to raise enough money to get to the host country, which this time is Mexico.

“It takes a lot of training and dedication to qualify for the World Cup and the team’s performance is constantly improving. Over

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the past couple of years GBAF have won or performed well in European group qualifying tournaments, so I think we are in with a really strong chance of performing well in the World Cup”.

Takeda UK’s Managing Director, Hiro Fukutomi, is an enthusiastic supporter of the team: “When you see what these guys can achieve on the pitch, it’s truly inspirational for all of us, as well as other amputees. All of us at Takeda are delighted to be working with the club because its activities prove that losing a limb, whether through cancer, on active service or some other misfortune, needn’t prevent you from leading a full and active life.”

Takeda UK first teamed up with GBAF in 2010 to help raise awareness of the sport and encourage other amputees to become involved by supporting training and international matches, as well as providing sponsorship towards the team’s participation in the 2010 and 2012 World Cups. The GBAF receives no funding from government and the Football Association, the governing body of English football, withdrew funding in 2006.

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The team consists of players with upper or lower limbs missing through congenital deficiencies or amputation – 50% as a result of cancer, and 50% accident victims or as a result of military service. The sport is aimed at amputee players of all ages who are fit enough to compete in the 50-minute matches.

Any organisation or individual wishing to join Takeda in supporting the EAFA and GBAF should contact:

Sarah Robinson

Interaction Marketing and PR

sarah.robinson@interactionpr.co.uk

Tel: 01233 732 769 Dave Tweed

Player-Manager, GBAF fdo@theeafa.co.uk

Tel: 07974 118 717 or donate through

www.everyclick.com/amputeefootball

www.pacerehab.com

CONVERTING PATIENTS INTO PEOPLE

Rehabilitation Services Prosthetics I Orthotics Physiotherapy I Counselling Occupational Therapy Immediate Needs Assessments Expert Witness Services Quantum Reports

Above the knee amputee returns to mountain biking

Back to life – in the saddle National Referral Centre Tel: 0845 450 7357 Email: info@pacerehab.com

PACE Rehabilitation 36 Brook Street, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 2BX

Unit 1, Anglo Business Park, Asheridge Road, Chesham, Bucks HP5 2QA

EMPOWER: NEWS > Grace Matthews, Olivia Story and Sofia Crockatt © Meningitis Research Foundation/Giulietta Verdon-Roe

Website: www.meningitis.org I Twitter: @M_R_F

I Facebook: www.facebook.com/meningitisresearch

Pushing the Boundaries -

life after meningitis and septicaemia

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unique and fun learning day for children and adults living with amputations as a result of contracting meningitis and septicaemia was held in Bristol on 31 October hosted by international charity Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF).

> Edward Bright - © Meningitis Research Foundation/Giulietta Verdon-Roe

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The charity estimates that there are around 3,200 cases of bacterial meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia every year in the UK. They are easily mistaken for milder illnesses, but unlike a dose of flu they can kill within hours and may cause serious life-long disabilities.One in ten of those affected will die and a third of survivors will be left with after-effects, some as serious as brain damage, amputations, blindness and hearing loss.

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Child and adult amputees and their families from across the UK came together to make friends, share experiences and get support and advice from expert clinicians.

A panel of experts answered questions about how to get the best from an NHS prosthetics service and were quizzed on a wide range of topics - how to get a good fit for prosthetics; the best way to treat blisters, what sort of limbs children can get from the NHS and acceptable timeframes for limb provision, from fitting to delivery.

Dr Nelly Ninis, a consultant paediatrician at St Mary’s Hospital spoke about her extensive experience treating meningococcal disease. This was followed by informative talks about common after

MENINGITIS RESEARCH FOUNDATION effects amongst patients with amputations following childhood meningitis and septicaemia, such as the management of problems associated with bone growth and tooth damage. Bristol City Council’s Access Sport’s Ignite programme provided coaches who encouraged the children to take part in sporting activities from cricket and basketball to curling, demonstrating that it is possible to access a range of sports despite limb loss.

Kimberley Brown from Carlisle attended with her 10 year old daughter Olivia. Olivia contracted meningococcal septicaemia when she was 2 in 2006 and had no signs or symptoms of meningitis other than being a little off colour, but she became seriously ill very quickly. Kimberley said: “We spent over a month in hospital with Olivia. Her organs failed and her heart stopped. We thought we had lost her, doctors had to amputate both legs and her left arm below the elbow to save her life. We really enjoyed Meningitis Research Foundation’s Pushing the Boundaries Day. We found it really useful hearing from so many experts and sharing experiences with other parents. Olivia loved making friends who suffer from the same after effects as she does and we are all keeping in touch, which is great.”

Diana Man from Uckfield contracted meningoccal septicaemia in 2007 when she was 25 and as a result had both lower legs and all the fingers on her right hand amputated. She also has extensive scarring and now has epilepsy.

> Diana Man - © Meningitis Research Foundation/Giulietta Verdon-Roe

© Meningitis Research Foundation/Giulietta Verdon-Roe

Diana spoke about her life since she became ill and told attendees “In 2010 I started riding again. I had a hand prosthesis designed so I could hold the rein. I am now hoping to compete in the Paralympics at Rio in 2016. I have also learnt to ski and to run on prosthetic blades. In 2012 I worked as a reporter for Channel 4 on the Paralympics; words cannot describe what a fantastic experience that was. Meningococcal septicaemia is not a disease where one day you are ill and the next you are fine.

I am back living an exciting and fulfilling life, yet I am also still recovering and will go on doing so for many years to come. The journey I have been through, and the people I have met, has taught me a lot about myself. There is always someone worse off. I have realised what is important to me and appreciate how lucky I am in so many ways.”

Shirley Gieron, Head of Membership & Support at MRF, said: “We held our first event last year and it was truly inspiring. We knew that our members with amputations and their carers would benefit from a special day, but to see children meeting and playing with other amputees for the first time in their lives was extraordinary. The feedback from parents and carers was that they welcomed the opportunity to quiz experts and find out more about a variety of issues but especially prosthetics and services available to those affected by the disease.

There were also unexpected benefits for families with some being helped to arrange follow up appointments with their local consultant as a direct result of speaking to expert clinicians on the day.”

Special thanks to our sponsors and supporters Clarke Willmott LLP, Dorset Orthopaedic, Ottobock, Ossur, Blatchford, Novartis, Changing Faces, and Access Sport’s Ignite Programme.

Sports sessions were delivered by Access Sport’s Ignite Programme www.accesssport.org.uk For information on Meningitis Research Foundation and the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia visit: www.meningitis.org

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 11

EMPOWER: INSURANCE

Prosthetic protection increasingly important as costs soar with growing sophistication Provided By: Fish Insurance I Pace Rehabilitation

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dvances in prosthetic technologies are enabling amputees to enjoy more active and comfortable lives as specialist devices enable them to pursue their favoured sports and leisure pursuits.

Thanks to the incorporation of powerful microprocessor controls, Bluetooth functionality, and other sophisticated technologies, modern prostheses bear little resemblance to the rudimentary devices of yesteryear.

But with that growing sophistication comes growing cost. “The price ceiling for an above-the-knee prosthesis a few years ago was around £25,000. The cost now is nearing treble that figure,” comments Scott Richardson of leading independent rehabilitation providers, Pace Rehabilitation.

“Today, a microprocessor controlled abovethe-knee prosthesis, which can be used underwater, costs close to £70,000.”

A large proportion of Pace’s clients were fit and active individuals prior to their injuries and have a litigation claim supporting their rehabilitation costs. Without the financial constraints of statutory provision through the NHS, they can be provided with the most clinically appropriate prostheses to give them with the best opportunity to return to their pre-accident position as possible. “Some of our clients are literally climbing Everest, going to the South Pole and running marathons, so we are experienced in providing high end kit to meet our patient’s very high expectations and demands.”

Scott - himself a below-the-knee amputee following a motorcycle accident at the Isle of Man TT races in 2000 – points out that many of Pace’s clients also own not one but several prostheses. “A typical provision would be three prostheses, one for everyday use, a cosmetically covered device, perhaps for ‘Sunday best’ and a water activity limb.

The discounted premium cover for multiple devices will therefore be welcomed by our patients,” he explains.

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Some patients have more still, as Scott explains: “We have one patient who has 12 devices. He does mountain biking, skiing, running and rollerblading and, because he’s doing a lot of these activities abroad, he has justified the need to have back up limbs.

There’s no point in him travelling half way around the world to compete in an event if his prosthesis develops a problem, resulting in him being unable to compete. So he has doubled up on a lot of his devices.”

The combination of growing cost and multiple ownership means amputees are increasingly financially exposed. “If someone has invested tens of thousands of pounds on a prosthesis and it gets lost or irreparably damaged, I expect they would appreciate some form of insurance.”

In the past, that exposure has been exacerbated by difficulties in securing suitable insurance. Historically Pace advised its patients to contact their home insurance company, but this was not without difficulties.

“Sometimes insurers simply would not be prepared to include a prosthesis as part of their cover. Or they would heavily load the premium. Some patients even reported that their insurer said ‘yes, that’s fine as long as the leg doesn’t leave the home’!”

It’s for this reason that Pace welcomed the arrival earlier this year of a dedicated prosthetic insurance policy – the UK’s first. Launched by disability specialist Fish Insurance this will, as standard, cover prostheses valued up to £55,000 and offer bespoke protection for higher value devices.

The policy, which costs from £99 annually, also protects orthotic devices such as braces for the spine, upper and lower limbs, feet, knees and ankles.

“We introduced the policy having realised from discussion with amputees that the existing insurance provision was pretty woeful, especially in the light of the growing cost of prostheses,” explained Fish’s managing director, John Garrard. “The

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difficulties presented in securing adequate cover meant that amputees faced not just a potentially significant financial loss, but the loss of their independence.”

Scott agrees. “To be honest, it was incredible that there wasn’t insurance for prosthetic cover available before the Fish policy. We feel a lot more reassured that our clients now have access to a policy to specific cover their considerable investment in their prosthetic devices.”

But it’s not just cost, but the inconvenience which irks amputees if they are without their specialist prosthetics. That issue was brought home to Scott when a friend, a Paralympian athlete, had his car stolen. Inside the £300 vehicle was his £16,000 running blade. The loss of the car didn’t unduly bother him, but the loss of the blade obviously did.

“If, for whatever reason, someone loses or damages their prosthesis, they literally want get back on their feet as quickly as possible.

So being able to talk to someone who deals specifically with prosthetic cover has to be beneficial.”

• Founded in 2003, Pace Rehabilitation is a clinician-led provider of specialist prosthetics, orthotics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and therapeutic services. It serves amputees from a National Referral Centre and clinic in Cheadle, Cheshire and clinics in Chesham Bucks and Newcastleupon-Tyne. For further details visit www.pacerehab.com • Established as a disability insurance specialist in 1976, Fish Insurance today protects over 75,000 people with disabilities or mobility issues. For details of the company’s new prosthetic insurance and other specialist policies visit www.fishinsurance.co.uk

EMPOWER: PHILIP SHERIDAN - MY STORY

© Philip Sheridan

Philip Sheridan: Speaker, poet, blade runner.

Website: philip-sheridan.com / philipsheridanflyfishing.com I Twitter: @madeofbeauty I LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/philipsheridan888

Engaged in patient involvement, leadership and coproduction in medical education.

Patron to VX Global - a new dynamic and inclusive sport with an aim on the Olympics. knee, and post traumatic stress disorder.

To hear that it’s not expected that you will live, then when I did, to hear that you may never walk again, then when I did learn to walk, to lose your career, your home and not a few of your friends along the way.

Let’s just say without too much melodrama that I spent many days, weeks and months in the depths of despair and depression.

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ne day twelve years ago I set out on my motorbike to ride to the coast. I never arrived. Not far from my destination I survived a near fatal road traffic accident. That short sentence can’t describe the full impact of my collision with a 25 tonne truck while being fully conscious as I went under the drivers wheel.

The devastation of the crash left me with multiple injuries to my legs, hands, shoulders, head and torso, the eventual amputation of my right leg just below the

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I had worked as a children’s therapist for almost a decade within a dedicated therapeutic children’s unit. I enjoyed the camaraderie of a close knit team and had become a team leader and manager. On my days off I would go to the wonderful hills and mountains close to my home on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales to hike, camp, trail run, and ride my mountain bike.

On weekends I would go with friends to dance until sunrise in the clubs of Leeds.

Over the next 3 years I worked on my recovery and rehabilitation. I drew on over twenty years of martial arts practise to not just learn to walk again but to return to an active lifestyle. No longer able to ride a mountain bike, trail run or walk without

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colossal pain I felt stuck until a I returned to the vertical dance of rock climbing. On the slabs and overhangs of the vertical world I felt freed and became gripped by the close engagement with nature.

I became a keen climber with some classic multi-pitch climbs under my belt both in the UK and Europe. However, eight years later I had to make a fateful decision for one more major operation on my right thigh. With a now long familiar inevitability that I knew so well, I started the laborious process of recovery from a wheelchair once again. I had the potential if the operation proved successful to perhaps run again.

One day I took my first faltering steps from walking to running. I cannot describe the joy nor the hammer blow of realisation at just what a superhuman effort I would need to exert if I wanted to run again. But run again I did. Short intervals of chest heaving jogs that became 100 metre turned into fabulous trail runs through the woods, forests and moorland that surround my home.

© Philip Sheridan

REHABILITATION

In nine months I went from not even contemplating running ever again to the joy of hearing my prosthetist say, ‘Phil, you’ve worked so hard I’ve recommended that you receive a blade.’ The elation of running on a blade compared to the limitations of running on a prosthesis designed for walking feels like removing blocks of concrete from your feet and slipping on the lightest of spiked shoes.

Inspired I set myself the challenge to run the Dalesway, over 135km or 80 mile of trail running, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of surviving my horrendous accident. I raised over £2000 for the charities Mind, Combat Stress, Martin House Children’s Hospice and Survival International. The engagement I had with people inspired by the challenge took me by complete surprise.

Nowadays you will find me engaged in all kinds of activities. I speak at conferences on the lived experience of surviving significant trauma, recovery and rehabilitation. Work part-time as a Facilitator, Mentor and Simulated Patient at the University of Leeds Institute of Medical Education and as a Faculty Associate at the Centre for Innovation in Health Management, Leeds University Business School. I also run fly fishing guide service from my home in Yorkshire, another way into the great outdoors.

At one presentation to a group of students in 2013 I came across a new and exciting sport called VX. Like a cross between lacross and dodgeball, VX has grown from its roots in North Yorkshire to spread around the world. Schools, universities and the arm forces are beginning to adopt this sport with an explicit core value of inclusivity built into it’s aim. Girls and boys play the game together and against one another as do people with various physical and mental impairments. I became the first blade runner to play this game and at the invitation of the founders had the great privilege to become a Patron to the sport.

This summer I ran the 10k leg of the Ripon Olympic distance triathlon as part of the VX team. The scorching hot and humid weather took a heavy toll when I took my leg off to reveal a bloody and skin worn stump. I couldn’t wear my leg for three

days but the elation of completing the course while supporting a worthwhile cause helped ease the pain.

A few weeks later I went to the BBC North studios with the other members of the team to talk about VX. Before we went into the studio I suggested to Helen, a swimming coach, who had swam the 1500m open water leg of the race, that we had played to our respective strengths.

I suggested that for a real challenge we should swap roles for 2015. I used to swim competitively at school and had enjoyed surfing but since my accident I had only taken a few tentative dips in swimming pools or the sea. I had not thought about swimming with any intent to complete a 1500m open water swim.

With the challenge accepted you will find me at my local swimming pool learning to swim again. Like learning to walk its about balance, core strength and coordination.

I have a long way to go but I’m sure with support I’ll be ready for the Ripon Triathlon next year. It feels so good to get back into the water again. I would encourage anyone with limbloss to go swimming.

The buoyancy of the water gives our joints a vital rest from weight bearing and supports joint mobility while building strength.

I’ll post updates and more over future issues about my progress. © Philip Sheridan

One creative turn since my accident took me back to my therapeutic work with traumatised children. I had used creative writing as a means to explore and ease the long terms affects of surviving significant trauma. I now used the medium of creative writing to explore the still raw traumatic experience for myself.

I began to write and collate prose and poetry that I had no intention to publish. With the ongoing support and encouragement from friends and family I produced a short collection of poetry that I self-published as an Ebook in 2012 titled, ‘Heart on the Mountain,’ then as a paperback in 2013. In its production I drew a line between the event that changed my life so irrevocably with its loss and suffering to the life I look forward to now.

In December 2013 I had the honour and privilege to travel down to Westminster, London to receive the Award for Inspiration at the national Limbless Association Prosthetic and Orthotic Awards.

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 15

EMPOWER: SUMMIT MEDICAL AND SCIENTIFIC

RE-IMAGINE REHABILITATION A key objective for amputees is improvement of their limb function to enable their return to community activities, home and work. Having the most up to date prosthetic limbs and expertise of prosthetists is part of the process, but an important role is played by physiotherapists and occupational therapists in helping patients regain their movement, usually in a gym.

Imagine walking through a forest on a path that winds left to right and up and down while learning to walk again, safely supported by a harness so if you fall or become unbalanced you will be prevented from hurting yourself. Imagine walking around a cityscape with all the challenges you would encounter, or perhaps steering a boat around obstacles to train your balance.

CAREN

(Computer Assisted Rehabilitation ENvironment)

Technology developed by Motekforce Link B.V. from The Netherlands means that rehabilitation centres are developing personalised treatment and training programmes which enable patients to make faster progress and work on their balance or walking in a real world situation. For example, patients using the Computer Assisted Rehabilitation ENvironment (CAREN) stand or move on an instrumented treadmill mounted on a motion base that can pitch, sway, roll and move up and down. Cameras capture the subject’s movement and patients are surrounded by a screen showing a virtual environment. Data is combined in software to provide measurement and feedback of the patient’s walking or balancing in real-time.

type of rehabilitation, compared to walking backwards and forwards in a gym or parallel bars. It’s fun!

Therapists and patients get immediate feedback on their progress and prosthetists can also make use of the real-time information from the CAREN and other systems to tune prosthetic alignment.

In the UK, the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde is using CAREN for projects including the validation of prosthetic socket pressure measuring tools and socket alignment.

The Brain and Spinal Injury Centre, Salford (BASIC), is opening a facility in early 2015 with a range of equipment, including CAREN, with some availability for use by amputees for rehabilitation.

The combination of immersion in a virtual reality environment, the “serious games” played and replication of real life situations, but within the safety of a controlled environment, challenges patients to achieve goals or to overcome their fear of moving around in the real world. Patients say how engaging and motivating they find this new

GRAIL

(Gait Real-Time Analysis Interactive Lab)

Motekforce Link is represented in the UK by Summit Medical and Scientific

www.summitmedsci.co.uk

DynSTABLE

(Dynamic Stability & Balance Learning Environment)

Motekforce Link B.V. based in The Netherlands provides innovative products for rehabilitation, orthopaedics, neurology, performance enhancement and research. Integrated Virtual Reality (VR) environments combined with motion platforms, instrumented treadmills, motion capture systems and surround sound are used to train movement functions and improve stability. Game elements, rich immersive interactions and multi-sensory real-time feedback enable fast and effective therapy and training programmes.

For more information contact UK Distributor SUMMIT MEDICAL AND SCIENTIFIC 12 Swanns Meadow, Bookham, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT23 4JX

T: 01372 459 863 - E: info@summitmedsci.co.uk W: www.summitmedsci.co.uk - Twitter: @summitmedsci Page 16 -

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The London Prosthetic Centre is proud to support Heather Mills in her Guinness World Record attempt to be the fastest disabled speed skier.

For your Ski / Sports prosthesis contact the Centre today!

Unit 20, Kingsmill Business Park, Chapel Mill Road, Kingston-upon-Thames KT1 3GZ Tel: 0208 789 6565 Email: enquiries@thelondonprosthetics.com

Call now for a free Consultation.

Photo by Damjan Zibert

For further information visit: www.thelondonprosthetics.com

EMPOWER: ADVENTURE REHAB

ADVENTURE REHAB Physical and personal growth to enable recovery from traumatic amputation

The team encouraging adaption of the usual methods to accommodate prosthetics as required. The flat water of the river provides the perfect dinghy practice, combining a run to the pub, followed by dinner on board, and as the evening light fades the team chat, enjoying the tranquillity of the Dart.

The next day the wind is non-existent. Once the main sail was hoisted there was time for some team building work – continuing the coaching themes which form an integral part of the program. Playing card based challenges on deck really did signal no wind! The gentle passage allowed time for reflection on the past 7 months, and the achievements of all the group, and their families.

Carefully edging between rocks and the wrecks which litter the area, we drop anchor off Elender Cove in dazzling sunshine. The team prepare for a dinghy beach landing, which in slight swell is always interesting, but with a few water sensitive prosthetics to add to the mix, it required excellent teamwork to ensure that everyone got ashore safely and dry.

Website: www.adventurerehab.co.uk I E-Mail: info@adventurerehab.com

I

n March, 3 trans femoral and 3 trans tibial amputees and some of their family members, embarked on the ADVENTURE REHAB 7 month amputee rehab program. The course supports physical and personal growth to enable recovery from traumatic amputation. Using inspiring surroundings of the South West, the dedicated, inspirational leaders use the theatre of the outdoors to get lives back on track. The ADVENTURE REHAB clients are all civilians and all arrive following referrals from their care team. The 2014 ADVENTURE REHAB final week expedition pushed the boundaries further than ever before.

Jim Bonney, lead coach and director of

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ADVENTURE REHAB chose to use Provident, a 90ft Brixham Sailing Trawler, to deliver the ultimate confirmatory week in his seven month programme.

The amputees are welcomed on board Provident in Brixham, by Lara, the skipper and sailing lead. The boat is stacked high with all the kit needed for adventure and sets sail from Brixham in glorious sunshine. She carries on board a special team consisting of sailors, coaches, amputees and their families, for an affirmative, culmination in their rehabilitation.

A gentle sail to Dartmouth, gets a few sails up, and acquaints everyone with the boat.

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Jim and his team lead the amputees on their most challenging walk of their rehabilitation.

For the amputees, the challenge of the final week now dawns, as the steep scramble towers above them. However, the steady and gradual improvement in walking throughout the past 7 months is brought into its own.

With determination and tenacity they tackle the challenge and 30 minutes later the group make a triumphant wave from the top. The shore team continue a 4km walk, with regular communications between Lara and Jim in case a collection of the weary is required. It isn’t, and the team charge on at impressive pace, heading inland, as Provident drops sails for the approach to Salcombe.

REHABILITATION The following day blessed with more wind, sailing skills were developed, the group completing their RYA Start Yachting qualification. An hour before sunset, the anchor was down in Ansteys Cove. Jim encouraged the amputees to remove their legs and take to the water for a liberating lap of the boat. From a boat, none of the beach, sand or water limb issues are present, and you can swim unencumbered by limbs, with that freedom that only open water swimming enables.

End of course meals are always tinged with an element of sadness. 7 months working 1:1 with people is a privilege. To walk side by side with folks and their families as they navigate very challenging physical and emotional ground is a unique opportunity, and one that ADVENTURE REHAB take seriously. With the tales of daring-do getting boarder and longer everyone retires to bed.

Provident is secured in the Harbour and the dinghy heads to the beach, loaded with the sailing team and barbeque. The shore team make their final decent down the rocks, exhausted and satisfied. The chatter is continuous, food is dished out, and a fire and toasted marshmallows top off the evening.

Armed with head torches to light up the rocks, the dinghy buzzes back and fore to the boat, and soon gentle snoring emanates from the cabins. How many amputees have enjoyed cliff paths and beach BBQ’s?

The following morning is another bright one, cups of coffee are sipped as excited chatter continues. Launched from alongside, the amputee team in double kayaks, heads out to sea. Jim paddles them in and out of sight and through scenery only usually the preserve of seals and sea birds that frequent these cliffs, brightly coloured kayaks and helmets with huge grins under them emerge from tidal rock gardens and hidden caves. After a little taste of the swell at sea, the kayakers return to Provident for a well deserved lunch.

The afternoon provides a little bit of down time for the group. Jim (a below knee amputee himself ) runs a master class on prosthetic limb maintenance.

Modern materials have made adventurous environments accessible with appropriate forward planning and care. The course delivers education to amputees, to enjoy the life they want to live, rather than the life they feel that have to live – a difference that a week at sea makes clear, every minute of the day.

Friday dawns grey and cloudy, reflecting the anticipation of the final challenge. Jim and Lara transport groups of 3 with climbing harnesses, helmets and buoyancy aids to the base of the disused quarry. Jim’s team support their scramble to the top of pristine lime stone slab. Rigged and briefed, the amputees then abseil off the high slabs down to the waiting dinghy below.

The abseil complete, the anchor is raised and we motor for home. The talk turns to the future, and plans for holidays, adventure and life are discussed. The group have made friends for life, supporters on their journey beyond amputation.

ADVENTURE REHAB have 2 long-term recovery programmes running in 2015, if you are an amputee or have clients who are- and you are looking for that innovative approach to engage them to regain their independence and confidence then perhaps the program provides the direction to a more effective recovery in the year ahead.

THE AUTHORS Jim Bonney is a former Royal Marines Commando Officer, amputee and adventure leadership specialist with a unique insight into leading adventure activities for disability and coaching resilience in niche groups. ADVENTURE REHAB is his rehabilitation program, delivering innovative, adventure based, residential, personally led recovery programmes for amputees and their families.

Lara Caine is qualified as a higher education teacher and an experienced performance coach. She is one of a handful of female Cruising Instructor Trainers and one of the leading young Gaff skippers in the UK, she has 10 years of experience leading Sail training and adventure expeditions.

Her work has seen her sail from Far North to Far South and occasionally interludes to warm up in between Together they lead ADVENTURE BySeaByLand - a team that leads innovative Sailing, Kayaking and Mountain based adventures for individuals, families and specialist teams looking for that real adventure to share and be inspired by.

Please get in touch for details. www.adventurerehab.com or info@adventurerehab.com

Following an early supper, Lara briefs the crew for a night sail, and the team settles in to a starlit downwind sail under Provident’s full rig. The amputees work confidently on deck to sail the boat, negotiating the dark moving decks with confidence.

Page 19

EMPOWER: SKIING WITH HEROES

We take a group of 20 injured Veterans and for most of them it’s the first time they have been back in some sort of ‘platoon’.

The camaraderie returns, the language is colourful! And most of all they are with others that have all had the same experiences. For most of them they say this is one of the most important things.

We give every skier a Ski Buddy who is there to assist them during the week. Ski Buddies apply to become part of the group and have to fundraise for us to ensure their place, we are oversubscribed 5x over for these coveted places.

During the week we see people change before our eyes. It’s the care and the camaraderie. It makes the biggest difference. Veterans tell us that the week skiing with us has allowed them to “put some demons to bed”, that for the first time they have” been able to sleep a whole night” for the first time in a long time “they felt loved”.

We take an osteopath and physiotherapist and orthopaedic consultant with us to help our wounded skiers with general advice plus to treat the physical toll of skiing on an otherwise compromised body, and in these sessions we give the veterans opportunities to benefit from treatments that are outside the normal NHS provisions, some that may change their future pain management.

Once back each Veteran is given a personal mentor and a business mentor if requested.

We then help them back into careers or to set up their own businesses. This is when the real work starts. SwH has amazing contacts and we can help put our skiers into jobs with the support that they may require.

Website: www.skiingwithheroes.com I Twitter: @SkiWithHeroes

S

kiing with Heroes (SwH) is a UK-based charity that supports wounded ex-Iraq and Afghanistan campaign exsoldiers through a specially designed ski-based development, mentoring and job-finding programme. We are a charity made up entirely of volunteers, no one takes a salary so all monies fundraised or donated go directly to our ski events or mentoring programme.

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Why skiing? Being at altitude, high up in the Swiss mountains surrounded by fresh snow, crisp clean air and awesome views is very restorative. The veterans that we take, have all been medically discharged and are therefore no longer in the army ‘family’.

Many of them are unemployed, and have not entered into ‘civilian’ society either.

These soldiers have given their legs, arms, eyes and peace of mind in the line of duty and we aim to get them back into society.

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The next big project for us is to open a Pain Clinic, when we have asked Veterans which issues and solutions are most important to them, they have invariably responded, “pain management and gaining employment”. Fundamentally, the former facilitates the latter.

We are currently recruiting for our next ski event in Klosters in March 2015, so if you know someone who will benefit, please go to our website and apply for a place.

If you’d like to fundraise for us, become one of our skiers or ski buddies please get in touch via the website or our facebook page. www.skiingwithheroes.com

EMPOWER:

More Rehab offer a high quality multidisciplinary therapy service to patients that require specialised neurological or respiratory care.

The specialised services we offer include: • Hands-On Therapy • Exercise Programmes • Hydrotherapy • Electrical Stimulation (Upper & Lower Limb) • Gymnasium Work • Splinting (Upper & Lower Limb) • FES Bike Assessments & Programmes • Carer Training • Amputee Rehab • Accommodation Assessments • Equipment & Aids Assessments including wheelchair & posture • Vocational Rehabilitation and much more, please contact us for more details.

We have clinics in South Yorkshire, Derbyshire and the surrounding areas.

We are happy to do visits to your home, school or work place.

Tel: 0114 2353150 Web: www.morerehab.com

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 21

EMPOWER: CASE MANAGEMENT

Successful case management is centred around the individual and their specific needs.

CONCEPT 3f : amended

Typeface

CMS UK - Trebuchet MS Reg Typeface for text - Agenda Light

The case study below is a fine example of how effective case management can be invaluable, especially for a young child.

Please read Amy’s story >> CASE MANAGEMENT SOCIETY UK

Written for CMSUK - Author: Trish Gunning, Senior Case Manager - Proclaim-Care, www.proclaim-care.co.uk

A

my’s journey began two months prior to her 11th birthday, becoming an amputee after an RTA, and concluded happily 8 years later when, at 19 years of age Amy travelled abroad on her own and is ready to live independently in her own home.

However, this young lady will now be physically disabled for the rest of her life and the psychological impact on her has been horrendous.

10 year old Amy and a friend were hit by a vehicle when it mounted the pavement. Amy’s friend died on impact.

The vehicle then ran over Amy’s legs whilst she was lying on the pavement.

Amy suffered bilateral multiple lower limb fractures, which were treated by insertion of a metal screw into the left ankle, and an external fixator to the right leg. Then, tragically for Amy, gangrene developed in the right leg, which led to a below knee amputation.

The next obstacle was the breakdown in Amy’s relationship with her mother when Amy returned home. Fortunately Amy’s grandparents lived nearby and Amy moved into their house. The grandparents were a great support, providing Amy with the structure that she required to move on with her young life.

When Amy was discharged from hospital the NHS provided a basic prosthetic’.

Wanting Amy to have a prosthetic more suitable to a growing, active, young lady

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CASE MANAGEMENT

her grandparents took the initiative and sought advice from Dorset Orthopaedics.

That company remained involved for 6 years, providing several prosthetic limbs as Amy grew and matured. Although a painful process, Amy valiantly persevered with many visits for multiple adjustments and fittings to her various new limbs.

To help control the pain Amy was referred to an NHS pain management programme, which unfortunately was not available for children at the local hospital. Amy therefore had to travel long distances to attend pain management in a different area. In addition to attending pain management sessions, Amy had been referred to a child psychology team, again a fair distance away, who she saw bi-monthly.

To supplement NHS provided physiotherapy a privately funded gym membership was obtained. This had a positive impact on Amy’s social skills enabling her to interact with other members and build relationships with her trainers, in addition to building stamina and strength.

At her young age Amy had to cope with pain management sessions, psychology sessions, and physiotherapy sessions over a 6 year period. Her stump also caused problems throughout that period, in particular with bone growth due to Amy’s young age. Surgery and stump refashioning were undertaken, resulting in her prosthetic limb requiring regular adaptations.

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CORPORATE

Amy eventually moved to senior school but due to the number of treatment sessions and appointments her school attendance was poor. School authorities were not sympathetic to Amy’s needs, stating her appointments should be held outwith school hours.

All this was having an adverse impact on Amy’s education and school attendance record. Amy was provided with a support worker at school, but felt ostracised by her school friends, becoming socially isolated which compounded the mental health issues Amy subsequently transferred to a smaller school supporting children with educational needs, and has successfully completed GCSE examinations.

This case has recently successfully concluded after a period of 7 years involvement with Amy’s rehabilitation.

The case demonstrates the various challenges that individuals face, and the benefit of having a case manager to oversee the treatment and liaise with authorities on an individual’s behalf.

It also proves the need for this support within the UK and in particular proves it does not necessarily mean a high cost.

It is more about support, negotiation and facilitation. Had Amy not had the additional support to guide and help her over the last 7 years this story may have been completely different and nowhere near as successful an outcome.

DIG

W

ith over 25 years of experience, Bush & Company are one of the only companies in the UK who can provide the complete range of assessment, rehabilitation and support services for almost any type of disability. Our comprehensive spread of professional expertise enables us to select appropriate specialists to meet each client’s individual needs.

As specialist providers of rehabilitation and case management for adults, children and young people we understand that the individual needs of our clients are central to providing appropriate support, with the ultimate aim of the rehabilitation being to return the client to as near as their preaccident function and independence as possible.

Through holistic and accurate assessment we can make recommendations and provide support to address short, medium and long term needs.

“

Our case managers’ responsibilities are extensive and include;

We understand that the individual needs of our clients are central to providing appropriate support

• Delivery of an individual, personalised and highly professional case management service; • Liaison assistance with experts, local statutory agencies and staff regarding the care and rehabilitation needs of a client; • Research, selection, appointment, training and induction of care staff on behalf of the client and their family;

“

GITAL

BUSH & COMPANY REHABILITATION

“Case Managers are in a unique, privileged and greatly rewarding position to work with clients during a particularly challenging time and enable them to achieve their optimal rehabilitation potential”.

Scott Hodder, Amputee Case Manager at Bush & Company

• Assistance with the purchase of specialist equipment; • All the support needed for, payment of wage and maintenance of the care team; • Assistance with the organisation of any required housing adaptions or where necessary the location and securing of alternative accommodation.

To find out further information about our services please visit www.bushco.co.uk or call 01327 876210 to speak to someone today about how we can help you.

WE ARE SPECIALIST PROVIDERS OF REHABILITATION AND CASE MANAGEMENT FOR ADULTS, CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE WHO HAVE SUSTAINED MODERATE, SEVERE AND CATASTROPHIC INJURIES. With an extensive knowledge of the rehabilitation and the range of available prosthetics our specialist case managers can assist clients with upper, lower and multiple limb trauma and amputation.

To find out more about our service please visit:

www.bushco.co.uk

Tel: 01327 876210 Fax: 01327 872559 Follow us on Twitter: @Bush_Company Registered Office March House, Long March, Daventry, Northants, NN11 4NR - DX 155100 Daventry 4

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 23

EMPOWER: BRIDGE CASE MANAGEMENT

Bridge Case Management specialises in rehabilitation needs for people with complex orthopaedic injuries and amputations.

O

ur team have supported many clients with personal injury claims to get the most out of their rehabilitation. We liaise with our clients’ solicitors and we know how to negotiate for funding through their personal injury claim, so you do not need to worry about the costs. We have assisted clients with enabling appropriate discharge, helped them get re-homed if necessary, and remain in regular contact so that they feel fully supported.

We support clients to get appropriate; • Medical care • Prosthetics and orthotics • Aids and adaptations • Mobility aids • Adapted transport • Assistance returning to work • Retraining for work • Psychological therapy • Support for their family • Help with returning to hobbies and pastimes

“

Our team have supported many clients with personal injury claims to get the most out of their rehabilitation.

If you want help with any of these areas then give us a call, or ask your solicitor to contact us.

01759 372222 mail@bridgecm.co.uk bridgecasemanagement.co.uk

With Bridge Case Management you can be assured that you will receive a high level of service, and prompt, appropriate communication regarding your rehabilitation progress.

YOU WILL RECEIVE: • Continuity • Positive Input • Commitment • Experience and Knowledge • Clear rehabilitation plans • Prompt and proactive service

Page 24 -

Follow us: @Empower_Mag

Testimonials from Claimant Solicitors available on request

T: 01759 372 222 E: mail@bridgecm.co.uk www.bridgecasemanagement.co.uk

medi 4Seal TFS: Grants you greater freedom The medi 4Seal TFS Liner is designed for use in a socket with a distal expulsion valve and provides excellent suspension by means of its four integral seals. • Easy Glide PLUS surface and flexible nature of the seals make it simple to roll on and negates the need for any lubricant when donning the socket. • Umbrellan fabric contained within the silicone as part of the liner matrix, provides both increased durability and is a useful part in the therapy of phantom limb pain, phantom limb sensations and idiopathic residual limb pain.

medi 4Seal TFS

Phone: Fax: Email: Web:

www.ifeelbetter.com

0870 240 4133 0870 240 4779 salesdesk@rslsteeper.com www.rslsteeper.com

medi. I feel better.

EMPOWER: LEGAL

Is amputation ever a choice?

Written By: Liz Phipps of New Law Solicitors I Website: www.new-law.co.uk I Twitter: @newlawnews

Surgery is just the starting point on the path to a successful outcome and there are many more things to consider, so after I have the surgeon’s opinion I will make an appointment with a private prosthetic provider. This allows the client to find out more about the prosthetics options available to them, what is involved in the fitting process and any issues they may face in the first couple of years following amputation.

A

s a solicitor specialising in catastrophic injuries, many of my clients have suffered accidents which have left them with complex fractures to limbs.

I will involve a specialist physiotherapist who can provide insight into the type of rehabilitation programme my client will have to commit to and whether they would benefit from any pre-amputation physiotherapy to build up body strength.

Some of these accidents result in immediate amputation, but not all. Quite rightly, a surgeon’s initial priority is always to try to save the limb. This can mean a series of operations that can span many years and include inserting internal metalwork; fixing intrusive external frames, skin and muscle grafts; and fusion of joints.

Psychological input and assessment is also essential to help the client prepare for the amputation and throughout the recovery process, if necessary. This support may need to extend to family and children as they will also have to deal with the changes.

The aim of these procedures is to try and improve the function of the limb and help ease or eradicate pain. Sometimes the surgery is successful, but I have also witnessed clients go through this process only to find that unfortunately they are no better off than when they started. This is where the question of amputation can arise.

But when someone has invested so much energy into their recovery and committed to saving their limb, how do they make what seems to be an impossible decision?

As with any major life changing decision, information is crucial. When this situation arises for my clients I look to compliment the support and knowledge that may come from those treating them on the NHS. I use their compensation claim to enhance their knowledge, starting by sourcing access to people who have had to make the same decision and can act as a buddy or mentor.

I will also instruct a surgeon who regularly deals with amputations to examine and report on my client.

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Another key aspect for someone already living with pain is to know about what sort of pain (e.g. phantom limb pain) they should expect to experience post amputation and how it will be managed.

There are other practicalities that need to be considered and put in place in advance.

For example suitable accommodation; appropriate transport and care requirements; money for the bills that will still need to be paid etc. Again I use the compensation claim and seek to persuade the insurers to make interim payments to cover these costs. Interim payments are in effect an advance payment of the final award of compensation. Whilst we want to ensure the end payment is protected there is no point struggling through if that is going to hamper and/or jeopardise the final outcome. At the end of the day, the priority for all parties is to help the individual regain as much normality in their lives as possible. Life is unlikely to ever be the same after sustaining catastrophic injuries, but different does not necessarily mean worse and we are constantly amazed by the determination of our clients.

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We only have to think about our Paralympians and war veterans to see that life post-limb loss can be rewarding. As technology continues to advance, so do the options it presents.

However, in my experience, it is not the gadgetry of the prosthetics alone that holds the key to success. The condition of the residual limb and fit of the socket is crucial, as it impacts on the control the individual has over their prosthetic limb.

The residual limb acts as an engine, levering the prosthetic. The reason for instructing a surgeon for a further opinion is often that we want to be sure how much of the limb can be saved. If there is a lifetime risk of an amputation going higher, the more of the limb that can be preserved the better.

Another key issue to the success of the amputation is how the wound will be finished off and with this we are looking to achieve as smooth and even a result as possible. One of the questions to ask is how the bone and muscle will be secured to the remaining limb, which is important as you want a stable base to which the prosthetic can be attached. It may be necessary to consult a plastic surgeon here. After amputation it is important to know how the wound will be managed and what compression will be used to aid in the reduction of swelling. Effective wound management and compression will hopefully mean the process of prosthetic fitting will be kept on track.

All in all, there are many things to take into consideration when deciding whether to amputate or not. As a specialist solicitor, when I have a client faced with this situation I start by asking what they need to know and what information they should have access to. After I’m satisfied that they’re equipped to make their decision, I use my expertise and knowledge to get the right compensation over their lifetime regardless of the decision they make.

Liz Phipps - Solicitor in the Serious Injury Team at NewLaw and Head of Development of the Serious Injury Team

We support you

solicitors

Amputee puts his best (bionic) foot forward Not so long ago, the idea of people being fitted with bionic prosthetic feet would have been confined to the realms of science fiction, but they are now being offered to amputees in the UK for the first time.

Even though he lost his leg in a motorcycle accident in 2009, Jozef Metelka swore that it wouldn’t stop him fulfilling his sporting dreams. The selfconfessed adrenaline junkie from Oxford admits, “The accident turned my world upside down but as soon as I could get out of hospital I was back in the gym and trying to exercise as I was doing before. It was very frustrating in the beginning as I had to get used to the crutches and it was difficult for me to come to terms with the fact that I didn’t have my foot. My first prosthetic was from the NHS and it helped me through the first few weeks after my

new-law.co.uk |

operation but it soon became apparent that, for me to continue my sporting lifestyle, I was going to need something more”.

Hilton Obery, a Solictor at NewLaw, first met Jozef in April 2009 at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. After such a traumatic event Jozef was alone in the country, with little or no understanding of what he should do next. Hilton recalls giving Jozef his mobile number in case he needed any help, “I remember he rang me on Good Friday to explain that he was going to have his amputation the following day. At this stage I was essentially offering the services of a Welfare Officer, as he didn’t have one. We very quickly appointed a Case Manager so that he could get additional support.”

NewLaw assisted by directing the Case Manager to the most relevant experts in their field and organised interim

compensation payments for Jozef, allowing him to move to more appropriate accommodation in August 2009. These interim payments have not only allowed Jozef to continue to do the things that are most important to him, but also enable him to be the recipient of a rather special prosthetic.

In the Summer of 2009 NewLaw referred Jozef to PACE Rehabilitation for an immediate needs assessment and, after initial fittings, the 27 year old became the first recipient in Europe of the American BiOM power assisted ankle system. After being in development for six years the BiOM has been fitted to several hundred amputees in the US and Canada, but only recently became available in the UK. Invented by Professor Hugh Hurr, himself a double leg amputee, its design evolved within the leg laboratory at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Harvard University and is the first prosthetic

...with a little help from NewLaw. foot which provides power to the user, allowing the amputee to walk faster and with less energy.

His solicitor, Hilton, understands the difference this has made to Jozef, “By providing this latest prosthetic technology, we’re giving Jozef the best opportunity to return to as close to his pre-accident situation as possible. We are always looking to assist our clients in getting the newest technology and, in Jozef’s case, he’s the first person in Europe to have this prosthetic”.

At £55,000 for the whole prosthesis, this latest technology is at the cutting edge of design with a price reflecting that.

A representative from PACE said, “We appreciate that it will only be available to the fortunate few at this time. However, we hope that future developments will allow more accessibility for a greater number of amputees who will surely benefit from this design”.

Jozef, who has been skiing and mountain biking since he was three and playing tennis since he was six, could not imagine a life without sport. “I have been very fortunate to receive great prosthetic support and have tried to continue to lead an active life.”

“I have been very fortunate to receive great prosthetic support”

energy, but I still walk faster! It’s unlike any other design I have tried, it’s as if my amputated leg has come alive again and without NewLaw’s help, I wouldn’t be wearing it today”.

Jozef has no plans to stop striving to achieve more and is looking forward to trying out the next addition to his collection, a rollerblading leg!

For more information on how NewLaw can support you,

He is now the owner of 12 specially crafted prosthetic legs, allowing him to compete in cycling races across the world and to become a professional ski instructor, but the sports lover’s favourite prosthetic is his BiOM foot.

“I try to focus as much of my energy to these high level activities, so it’s important that I rest when I can. Using the BiOM foot for everyday use allows me to use less

call Rob Thomas on 0333 321 7496, or email him on Robert.thomas@new-law.co.uk

We support you

solicitors Tel: 0333 321 7496

Personal Injury

Scott’s Story Life for Manchester teenager, Scott Wall, was turned up-side-down when he was knocked down in a ‘hit and run’ incident just a few hundred yards from his home in Droylsden.

Scott, who was 17 at the time, had been making his way to the local gym when he stopped to talk to a friend on the pavement at the side of the road. He was struck by a car driven by an uninsured, unlicensed driver which had sped out of control whilst breaching road traffic signals, pinning Scott against a wall. The driver and passenger of the vehicle fled the scene immediately after but were apprehended after police investigations.

His friend managed to get out of the way of the vehicle, but Scott was not so lucky and sustained serious injuries.

He was rushed to the Accident and Emergency Department at Tameside General Hospital and had to undergo a below-the-knee amputation to his left leg. His lower right leg was also very seriously injured and emergency doctors only just managed to save it.

Positive actions From the beginning, Scott and his family received support from Irwin Mitchell’s inhouse Client Liaison Team. Scott’s Mum was determined to get the best possible care for her son and worked closely with Jonathan Betts and the team to investigate the possibilities of getting an extension annex built at the family home.

Jonathan Betts, partner and a member of Scott’s legal team, commented: “Due to the traumatic nature of Scott’s injuries he could not climb or descend stairs which was a huge issue, as at the time of the incident the only bathroom facilities were on the first floor.”

Personal Injury

“I am so lucky I had such a strong team of people around me, including Mum, who fought hard with my lawyer to ensure I received the best possible treatment.”

- Scott

Working together From the outset, a collaborative approach was adopted in dealings between Irwin Mitchell and the Motors Insurers Bureau (MIB), who were ultimately responsible for handling Scott’s legal claim as the driver of the car had been uninsured.

Irwin Mitchell managed to secure their agreement to implement the code of best practice for early intervention and rehabilitation. This resulted in the MIB providing case management, occupational therapy and architectural assistance together with funds to build a self contained annex to the side of the family house within just three months of the incident.

The annex had its own custom built bedroom and bathroom. This was a real triumph and restored some dignity for Scott who had for a short time been living in the family dining room where all his care and personal needs were met.

The relationship between Irwin Mitchell and the MIB and subsequently their solicitors, was excellent. Interim funds were available not just for Scott’s needs but those of his family too.

Now 20 years old, Scott is currently studying Business Management at Salford Univerisity.

Its only through the collective and dedicated commitment of Scott, his family, the care and legal team that Scott has progressed so far after his incident and he is now optimistic about his future.

Interim payments were also secured for surgery on a private basis and for the provision of vehicles, wheelchairs and other equipment that was needed. Scott hit the headlines in 2006 for being one of the first people in the UK to wear a bionic foot which he had fitted at a clinic in South Manchester.

Dedicated commitment The value of building links between the Irwin Mitchell legal team and that of the Motor Insurers Bureau to ensure Scott’s immediate and future needs, were considered above everything else. Crucially, this ensured that Scott and his family could concentrate on his progress.

To talk to a specialist advisor today simply call free on 08000 23 22 33 or text CLAIM to 61993 and someone will call you back

Irwin Mitchell

Birmingham

Bristol

Leeds

London

Manchester

Newcastle

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Irwin Mitchell Scotland Glasgow Irwin Mitchell Consulting Office† Irwin Mitchell Abogados

Madrid

Leicester Málaga

2011

www.irwinmitchell.com Irwin Mitchell LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Its associated firm Irwin Mitchell Scotland LLP is a separate Scottish legal practice which is regulated by the Law Society of Scotland.

EMPOWER: THOMPSONS SOLICITORS

Helping you get back into the swing of things Losing a limb does not mean losing your independence. At Thompsons, we have helped thousands of adults and children to adapt and enhance their lifestyles following an amputation. With over 90 years of experience, we understand the physical, emotional and psychological impact that losing a limb can have on individuals and their families.

The Thompsons Serious Injury Team brings together the most dedicated serious injury lawyers from every corner of the UK, so there is someone close by wherever you are.

Compensation claim advice: Whether it’s helping you to come to terms with your amputation, accessing the best medical care or ensuring that you regain your independence as quickly as possible, we can put you in contact with a network of experts and support you through a compensation claim.

To help you think about what a claim involves, here are some important points to consider:

Evidence In order to make a successful claim, we will need to prove that someone else was to blame for your injuries. If you were injured at work, your employer at the time was responsible for providing a safe environment and appropriate equipment. If you were injured in a road traffic accident, it may be that another driver was driving without full care and attention. The stronger the evidence, which may include photography of your accident or injuries, the stronger your claim will be.

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Timings In the UK, there is a standard time limit of three years from the date of an accident in which a claim for compensation can be made. It is always best to seek legal advice as soon as possible so that a solicitor can thoroughly prepare your claim and, where appropriate, apply for interim payments to help ease the financial strain during your treatment if you are unable to work. Some exceptions to the time limit do exist, and special rules apply for children or adults who lack legal capacity, but it is always best to take legal advice as soon as possible.

Rehabilitation and care After you are discharged from hospital, you will need a plan for your continuous care.

You may need to see several specialists to arrange long term of lifelong support.

Our close working links with dedicated client support co-ordinators, occupational therapists, prosthetic specialists and the Limbless Association mean you can trust us to access the specialist information and rehabilitation support that you need.

Compensation Compensation is awarded for pain, suffering and the inability to do things you could do before your accident. It can also cover the effects that an accident has had on your physical mobility and mental health. Our team is totally committed to securing the best possible outcome for clients, in the shortest possible time. Compensation claims can cover the following:

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Lost Earnings After an injury, you may be entitled to claim for the loss of earnings to cover time off work, to support you if you are unable to return to work or have to take a drop in wages to carry out a less-physical role.

We can also help you claim all travelling expenses incurred because of an accident, including those of close relatives visiting you in hospital. Keeping receipts will help support your claim.

Healthcare Costs After suffering a serious injury such as an amputation, you will probably need on-going medical treatment for some time. The cost of any medical treatment, including rehabilitation, physiotherapy, prescription costs, psychological and neurological treatment and cosmetic surgery, can all be included as part of your claim.

Adaptations to Lifestyle Adapting your surroundings to allow you to function as normally as possible can be expensive and your claim for compensation can also cover the costs of the full range of prosthetics, a wheelchair or other walking aid, and even a car or an adapted, accessible home to meet your needs.

Call us on 08000 224 224 or visit: www.seriousinjurysupport.co.uk

to get advice from our specialist serious injury team.

“Aer the accident I felt so low, as I had so much taken away om me.

I couldn’t work or cay out normal every day tasks such as picking up a gl…ompsons Solicitors were superb, ering suort and guidance and ultimately suring me a nancial slement that meant I could plore top-end thnology.”

Michal

A refreshing approach Losing a limb doesn’t mean losing your independence.

At Thompsons, we have helped thousands of people to adapt and enhance their lifestyles following an amputation.

The Thompsons Serious Injury Team brings together the most dedicated serious injury lawyers from every corner of the UK, so there is someone on your doorstep wherever you are.

We have expert knowledge of running military, road traffic, medical negligence and industrial accident cases and a proven track record of success. Our close working links with dedicated client support co-ordinators, occupational therapists, prosthetic specialists and the Limbless Association means you can trust Thompsons to access the specialist information, rehabilitation support and legal advice that you need.

Call us now on 0800 0 224 224 or visit www.seriousinjurysupport.co.uk to see if we can help you

Serious injuries can change your life forever.

No-one knows this better than Jamie Bertoux.

Jamie suffered life changing injuries when he was involved in two serious road traffic accidents.

The first left Jamie with a head injury and other neurological damage. The second left him a bilateral above knee amputee.

Jamie was, at first, directed to a solicitor who did not have specialist expertise in injuries of this sort, which meant the complexity of the case was not fully recognised. Had he continued with this solicitor, Jamie would have been significantly under-compensated. What’s more, his future independence and quality of life would have been drastically reduced.

Luckily for Jamie, he was referred to a specialist serious injury lawyer, Huw Ponting of Novum Law.

Huw’s experience in similar cases meant he was able to correctly assess the amount of specialist care and support that Jamie would need.

Huw looked at the physical, practical and financial help that would be needed and also the psychological support that is so necessary in a case like this.

Thanks to this specialist knowledge, Jamie has been able to rebuild his life and continue to enjoy his independence and freedom.

For help and advice for a better future, contact the specialists at Novum Law: 0845 160 2540 www.novumlaw.com

INTO THE

WILD

EMPOWER: LINNITTS SOLICITORS

Accident Claims – What Next?

On the 1st of April 2013, the law changed Written By: Chris Linnitt of Linnitts Solicitors I Website: www.linnitts.co.uk

“

Every time that somebody comes to us, we review their case and we have increased their compensation by 100% or more!

s in M on 30 ltati ee u Fr ons C Call 01626 33 33 80 or Click linnitts.co.uk

Personal Injury

Family Law

No Win, No Fee

Fixed Fees

• All types of accidents/injuries

• Divorce and Separation

• No win, No fee

• Children and Finances

• Clinical Negligence

• Pre-nuptial agreements

• National Coverage

Our Services Include: • Personal

Injury • Family Law Litigation • Employment Law • Wills, Probate & Tax Planning • Civil

Linnitts Solicitors. Suite 1, Wessex House, Tuckers Maltings, Teign Road, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 4AA

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Follow us: @Empower_Mag

I Twitter: @chrislinnitt

Y

ou know those annoying text’s you get “Your claim could be worth £3,750, text 8750 for more info”. If you are like me, then I hate them! I find them irritating and very annoying. I even get harassed by email and when I’m surfing the internet! Arrgh!!!! Well, these come from Claims Management Companies who farm claims and sell your details to solicitors who pay a referral fee for your claim. The Government has banned this referral fee.

You may ask yourself, “Well so what?”. What this means is that you can choose who you wish to instruct or you may even deal with insurers direct.

If you deal with an insurer direct such as AVIVA, Saga, Admiral and many others they may well make you an offer which they call “pre-med”, by this they mean pre-medical report. No medical expert will have assessed your injuries and you may have no idea how long your injuries may last or whether they may re-occur in the future. The insurance company will say that their offer is in your best interests and they are likely to offer you around £1,050.

These offers are temping because of the offer of immediate payment. Many people are under settling their claims as a result.

We have heard this happen so many times. Every time that

somebody comes to us, we review their case and we have increased their compensation by 100% or more!

So if you get an offer, do not accept it in full and final settlement. Accept their offer by way of an interim payment and ensure that it is not in full and final settlement. Then seek legal advice from us.

We are experts in all types of accident claims and clinical negligence claims. Our Chris Linnitt, is an above knee amputee and knows what it is like to be involved in an accident and go through the compensation process. Why not visit: www.linnitts.co.uk/ chris-linnitts-life-story to find out what happened.

To avoid costly mistakes it is wise to instruct a solicitor who has expert knowledge in these areas.

For more information please call Chris Linnitt, Head of the Personal Injury Department on 01626 333380 or out of hours on 07751 868701.

Alternatively, pop in and see us at our offices in Newton Abbot or we will come and see you (even if you’re in hospital!). Our offices are based in Wessex House, Teign Road, next to Tuckers Maltings.

You can also visit our website at www.linnitts.co.uk and we are on Facebook and Twitter!

EMPOWER: MOBILITY

Did you know:

The muscles you sit on are the most important ones for standing up Provided By: oneathlete I Website: www.oneathlete.co.uk I Twitter: @one_athlete

O

ne of the most important muscle groups we use to move also happens to be the ones we sit on most of the day. Our gluteal or buttock muscles are made up of three large muscle groups at the back of your hip.

Their job is to extend and rotate your leg as well as stabilise your pelvis. Ultimately, they play a vital role in keeping you in an upright position for walking, running and keeping you well balanced.

Strengthening your buttocks

In issue 5, we discussed the importance of symmetry and how we should all strive to achieve symmetrical movement by creating a strong ‘pillar’ by strengthening our core muscles. One of the common misconceptions we hear when we talk about core strength is that it’s perceived to mean abdominals. Your core is a lot more than just your abdominals.

It covers all the muscles joined to your spine and/or pelvis and includes your buttocks.

1). While you’re sitting down, just try to squeeze your bottom cheeks. You can tense your gluteal muscles whilst you are sitting, lying or standing and just practicing turning it on and off will be a great way to start strengthening them. Little and often is the best way with this exercise, so try it a few times a day in different positions.

Gemma Jefferson, sports physiotherapist at oneathlete said: “When I worked with new leg amputees in hospital during my early years as a physiotherapist, activating the gluteal muscles were one of the first things I would ask my patients to do. That’s because the gluteal muscles tend to become deconditioned quite quickly and without the strength they provide, tasks such as standing and walking become incredibly hard. Another reason is that when we spend long periods of time sitting down on our buttocks, our hips become stiff and it becomes more difficult to straighten our hips fully and extend our legs behind us. With strong buttocks, I could get my patients to stand up quicker and my patients found they were able to get used to extending their legs quickly when they started walking.”

2). Lie on your side with both of your leg straightened out. Try to lift your top leg up to the ceiling.

You should feel your gluteal muscles working. Doing a few of these leg lifts will certainly make the muscle group stronger. Try lifting your leg to different angles, some with your leg a little in front of you, some straight up to the ceiling and some with the leg behind you.

everyday tasks with your back muscles. If your buttocks are weak, your lower back muscles take the full strain of your body weight and moving you around, leading to back pain.

To help you get started we wanted to share a couple of basic exercises with you so you can get your gluteal muscles switched on and start using them more effectively.

In the next issue, we’ll share some more exercises to help you strengthen your buttocks as well as some other exercises for your core strength. Until then, these two simple exercises will give you a good head start.

If you’d like oneathlete to help you with your training programme, visit www.oneathlete.co.uk

All of our athletes spend time strengthening their buttocks in order to allow them to run faster, jump higher or throw further.

It’s something that every one of us should do more of, as it’s such a crucial group of muscles for good biomechanical movement.

Individuals who suffer from back pain will nearly always benefit from strengthening their gluteal muscles. This is because when your buttock muscles are working efficiently, they can share the load of

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 37

EMPOWER: ELECTRIC MOBILITY Electric Mobility offers local support to those who value guidance in selecting and assessing the correct mobility product through first class service from a company they can trust

R

ascal Rehab was formed as a Specialist Division within Electric Mobility to provide people who require the support of mobility and healthcare products, with a comprehensive range of manual wheelchairs, powerchairs and other specialist products, which have all been designed to make life easier and improve the quality of mobility for people that face challenges during daily life.

The company employs five Area Managers who have over 65 years of experience between them in the Healthcare industry to work alongside the highly trained Mobility & Rehab Retailers across the country.

Electric Mobility is proud to promote the Samm Mid Wheel Drive powerchair from You-Q - this functional powerchair with the centre of gravity located directly beneath you, means it can turn on its own axis. This ensures an ultra-small turning circle for excellent manoeuvrability around the home.

Offering an intuitive drive, the Samm is an ideal solution for those individuals who may have had difficulty driving an electric wheelchair

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using Gyro controls, switches or other speciality controls.

With Samm, driving through doorways, into lifts and around small places will become easier due to the narrow width of the powerchair.

Benefitting from a low seat height of 40cm (15.75“) will assist immensely with transference during daily activities, getting under work and home surfaces or transportation within vehicles.

The Samm indoor / outdoor powerchair has an extensive range of seating and powered options, including seat lift, tilt in space and power leg rests that can be tailored to suit a wide range of conditions, ensuring the assessment / prescription meets your lifestyle requirements and is the best solution for you.

As the newest edition to the You-Q range, it joins the Rascal Rehab family helping to provide a range of powerchairs suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. See the photographs of Samm in the advert opposite the contents page.

Remember - IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

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The premier Rehab products represent just a selection of the range.

Alex – Unprecedented driving comfort with unique VIA suspension for intensive outdoor use Luca – Extremely compact and ideal for indoor and outdoor use, includes sports range option for Football and Hockey XP – No-nonsense, easy to use with a smooth ride and excellent manoeuvrability Samm - Ultra-small turning circle for excellent manoeuvrability around the home or work If you would like more information on the Rascal Rehab range or for general advice on selecting the product that would best suit you, please contact -

0800 252 614 sales@electricmobility.co.uk

WHERE PERFORMANCE MEETS LIFESTYLE

EMPOWER: INCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGIES

£50,000 prize for enterprises and

individuals to create new technologies, products and services that will enable disabled people equal access to life’s opportunities

D

esigners, makers, students and entrepreneurs are being challenged to apply for the chance to gain a contract worth £50,000 and to develop the next generation of products, services and technologies that will make a real difference to the 1 in 5 of us living with limiting long term illness or disability in the UK. The UK’s innovation foundation, Nesta, is working with the Office for Disability Issues, Innovate UK, The Department for Business Innovation and Skills and Irwin Mitchell to champion the issue of assistive technology through the Inclusive Technology Prize. The challenge will encourage innovation through co-creation with disabled people, meeting needs as defined by the users themselves and challenging people to use lived experiences of disability to develop life changing technology.

The competition will be judged by an expert panel, including leading comedians Jess Thom, who has Tourette’s syndrome, and Laurence Clark, who has cerebral palsy. The panel will be looking for ideas that enhance independence by building, inventing, developing and co-creating a more equal and accessible society.

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The full judging panel is available at www.inclusivetechprize.org.

Jess Thom, Inclusive Technology Prize judge, said: “The Inclusive Technology prize is looking for people to apply with products that are beautifully designed, systems that are turned on their heads, and technologies that harness the best of computing and mobile technology to kick start new ideas that will have a long lasting impact for the 12.2 million disabled people in the UK.” The judges are looking for ideas that will fulfill their vision for a more equal society. Products could be functional objects like a watch that tells the time through touch, systems and technologies might include text to voice apps for computers and mobiles that make voting systems accessible by reading and recording the vote by voice.

Constance Agyeman, Programme Manager for the prize, said: “We are excited by the potential of the Inclusive Technology Prize to generate a whole new wave of product design and to encourage people to innovate for independence.

“Together with partners, Nesta is looking for entries that are co-produced

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with disabled people and will improve the lives of the everyday person experiencing day-to-day challenges.

“Assistive technology, aids products and technologies should be readily available for anyone looking for the solutions that will make their life easier and simpler. The Inclusive Technology Prize is about making that vision a reality.”

Submissions must have the potential to make a difference in education, home, work, leisure, or transport, and can have cross over in any or all of these areas.

The Inclusive Technology Prize, which is designed to be accessible to all, is open to individuals, groups or organisations.

The competition has several stages and entrants will be whittled down to 25 semi-finalists who will each receive mentoring and support, and then a final 10 who will develop prototypes ready for impact testing. The winner of the £50,000 contract will be announced in March 2016.

Interested organisations and individuals should visit www.inclusivetechprize.org to apply.

hygiene beyond expectation

Total approach to restoring dignity & independence Be able to go to the toilet without help…

The Clos-o-Mat Palma Vita ‘wash and dry’ toilet restores dignity, privacy and independence.

A built-in douche can be triggered with the flush to wash you clean, and warm air gently and efficiently dries you. The Clos-o-Mat Palma Vita can also be used as a conventional WC. The Aerolet Toilet Lifter gently lowers you to the correct position over the toilet, then raises you afterwards.

For further information, please visit our website.

www.clos-o-mat.com Tel: 0800 374 076 Email: info@clos-o-mat.com

EMPOWER: HANDS FREE COMPUTING

disability. Our company’s motto is “improving working life” and we work closely alongside government scheme Access to Work to ensure individuals with disabilities have access to equipment, training and funding to help them stay in the workplace. We work with a wide range of clients from self-employed individuals, to large organisations such as the NHS.

Website: www.hands-free.co.uk I Twitter: @Hands_Free_UK

Hands Free Computing Company Profile

S

ince 1997, Hands Free Computing has been providing disability software and training. Over the last seventeen years Hands Free Computing has continued to grow and is now the UK’s leading independent provider of assistive technology and training. Our offices, based in West Sussex, supply

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customers all across the UK with help, support and advice regarding they may be facing in the workplace as a result of a disability.

We are passionate about providing high quality software solutions that make technology accessible to everybody, regardless of their

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We believe that it is important to provide specialised training and software to allow those with disabilities to have full access to the world of technology. Having the ability to access computers is now an essential skill required in the workplace and we are here to ensure your disability is not a barrier to using a computer. If you are currently working or about to start employment Access to Work can come and assess your needs and provide funding for any equipment and training you may require.

Our success is down to our wealth of expertise, superior knowledge of the needs of our clients and the excellent customer service we offer.

Our software and training benefits individuals with a variety of needs, from dyslexia to complex physical disabilities. These innovative products make working life easier for so many people and in thousands of cases they also enable employees to remain in their jobs and lead a productive working life.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

“

Everyday our staff are helping to change lives for the better. Our ethos at Hands-Free is to always go that extra mile to help our clients - that’s what has helped us build our reputation and stand head and shoulders above others in the same field.

Product profile:

Managing Director, Lawrence Howard said: “Everyday our staff are helping to change lives for the better. Our ethos at Hands-Free is to always go that extra mile to help our clients - that’s what has helped us build our reputation and stand head and shoulders above others in the same field.”

Hands Free Computing are dedicated to improving individuals working lives, for further information on how we could help you, please contact us on 0845 899 0880 or email quotes@hands-free.co.uk

Hands Free Computing are proud providers of Dragon NaturallySpeaking ProAccess. We are a Premier Partners of Nuance and have been a licenced reseller of Dragon Software. Dragon NaturallySpeaking can change individuals working life and allow them to reach their full potential in the workplace. This fantastic software application will type everything you say, which makes using your computer much easier. Dragon NaturallySpeaking ProAccess can let you edit your documents, send emails and navigate the internet using just the power of your voice! Whether you have RSI, dyslexia or upper body impairment, Dragon will allow you to use a computer productively. Hands Free Computing has a wealth of experience working with individuals with disabilities and advising how Nuance software is suitable for their needs.

Making computers accessible to everyone Hands Free Computing is the leading disability software and training provider.

If your disability is limiting your use of a computer, our specialised software, equipment and qualified trainers will be able to help.

If you are employed or seeking employment you may be eligible for funding and support from Access to Work.

For more information contact 0845 899 0880 or visit www.hands-free.co.uk

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EMPOWER: SANIFLO

Multiple Saniflo solutions for recovering heroes

T

edworth House is a personal recovery and assessment Centre for wounded soldiers; offering support and facilities to those who have suffered life changing injuries and illnesses.

The centre is fully adapted to offer over 50 en-suite bedrooms and four family suites, with a range of specialist rooms for adaptive sports, education courses, relaxation and socialising; ensuring the best possible recovery for patients.

Following renovations of the main house in 2011, a second phase of work to install a wellness centre in to the west wing was completed in 2012. This included The Phoenix Centre, a state- of- the- art gym complex with some of the UK’s most advanced adaptive sporting facilities. It boasts a Skiplex, an indoor ski simulator with a revolving ski slope and adjustable gradient that replicates a real piste, a hydrotherapy swimming pool, strength & conditioning gym, steam room, sauna and sports hall with a sprung floor.

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Building services supplier, AJK Services, carried out major installation work on the project including sanitation facilities in the West Wing supplied by Saniflo. In the Phoenix Centre 3 x Sanishower pumps were specified; one to provide water removal from the Skiplex and 2 further units to remove water from physiotherapy sinks. With only remote soil stacks a solution was required to pump water to the mains – and the Sanishower was the ideal solution pumping waste water up 4m, along 40m through 22mm small bore pipework to reach the main drainage pipes.

A whole selection of Saniflo products was specified for Jimi’s Wing, a new, purposebuilt, 60-room facility, which has provided extra 30 en-suite bedrooms, 4 family suites, a games room, an IT suite, art room and more classrooms. A Sanicubic high performance macerating pump was installed to discharge waste and water from toilets, basins, showers and a cleaner’s sink sited in the basement, whilst 2 Sanispeed commercial pumps for lighter applications are providing the solution for the removal of waste water from sinks in the art rooms.

Keeping the look and feel of the refurbishments as contemporary as possible, AJK Services installed wall hung sanitaryware in two of the en-suites, but, facing similar issues with the remote location of the soil stack, turned to Saniflo for a solution.

Sanipack pumps - designed to work with built-in bathroom units - enabled complete concealment of pipework to provide the flush, modern finish required.

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In addition 4 Showermatics were fitted for the removal of waste water from showers in the en-suite rooms. The plug and go, low level pumps provide the answer where gravity drainage isn’t an option and pumps away up to 12 litres per minute of water.

Tom Partridge oversaw the installation projects for AJK Services at Tedworth House.

“Saniflo has a comprehensive range of products that have helped us to install extra facilities at Tedworth House without having to carry out major alterations to the existing drainage systems. This has enabled us to maximise the space available to provide more treatment for the wounded. It’s been a privilege to work on this job”.

Empower Quarter Page Ad 87x124:Layout 2

23/10/14

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INDEPENDENT LIVING

Helpful Kitchen Aids from NRS Healthcare

Over 2,500 Daily Living Aids Products ideal for amputees Easy ordering - fast delivery Product advice helpline

See the full range online:

www.nrs-uk.co.uk Tel: 0845 606 0911

N

RS Healthcare has a huge range of products to assist with mobility and daily activities such as preparing food.

Our Non-Slip Spreadboards are available in blue, red or white and are a handy addition to the kitchen. Featuring a modern, sleek design, the boards have raised edges to make onehanded bread or toast spreading easier. They have a non-slip base and are of course dishwasher safe. Clip-on spikes are available separately.

Similarly our great value NRS Kitchen Spreadboard with Spikes & Grater helps with not only spreading but also chopping, grating, slicing and peeling. The removable spikes hold vegetables, bread or fruit in place. The removable grater box has 3 grating options and holds the grated food inside for less mess.

Cans and jars are easy to open with our choice of one-handed opening gadgets, such as the Auto Can Opener which clips easily onto the top of a tin and opens it at just the touch of a button; or the Belliclamp Jar & Bottle Opener which sits on your worktop so you can hold a jar in place to open it with one hand.

Visit the NRS website for latest prices or to place an order: www.nrs-uk.co.uk

Anti-slip tray

Thermostatic control

The stunning Kinemagic shower cubicle fits perfectly into the same space as a bath. Its innovative design requires no silicone or re-tiling, meaning it can be installed in just a day.* The ‘Cristal Plus’ glass panels can be configured for a right or left-handed installation and are completed by a high quality grab rail and folding seat, creating the ultimate safe shower experience.

For more information or to request a brochure visit kinedo.co.uk.

Overhead rain shower

SILICONE FREE

2

YEAR

NO LEAKS

CRISTAL PLUS GLASS GUARANTEE

*It is possible to fit a Kinemagic in just one day with two people. However, this is subject to site situations and the competency of your installer.

All it takes to transform a bathroom is a little Kinemagic.

Designed by the experts at

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 45

EMPOWER: QOL - ‘BUDDY’

‘QOL provides Quality of Life and it came into being thanks to one person – Joanna Winslade.

A

successful business woman with an extremely caring nature decided not to simply sit back and enjoy the life she had afforded herself upon her retirement. Instead, her goal was to dedicate herself to others. She nursed elderly relatives with chronic ulcerations and also one who was an amputee. These conditions did not allow those individuals to have a Quality of Life particularly when it came to maintaining daily hygiene – to bath or shower. This troubled Joanna immensely and she felt compelled to unearth a solution. This she did and “buddy” was born.

and is anti-allergenic (latex free). There are patents pending due to the unique nature of the product and “buddy” is a registered trademark.

Produced in the UK, ‘buddy’ is a soft, flexible and reusable cover, giving complete protection for limb wounds and casts in water. We believe we have developed the ultimate solution when protection from water is needed. The innovative medical grade material is not only watertight, but soft, gentle and very stretchy to providing maximum comfort and protection. The material contains anti-microbial agents

We are proud to have in place, overseeing the development of the products and the direction of the business, a team of people with complementary skill sets - a surgeon, lawyer, accountant and sales, production and marketing experts with considerable commercial experience. Our goal is to ensure the success of the business whilst simultaneously safeguarding our ethos – to improve Quality of Life. ‘

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‘buddy’ is the answer to your problem if you need to shower, bath, swim or undertake hydro/cryo rehabilitation! Don’t simply take our word for it, the product has been used by elite athletes who have all been overwhelmed by the simplicity of “buddy” and the advantages it provides. See exactly what they have to say in their testimonials at www.buddycover.com

Follow us: @Empower_Mag

“

QOL are proud of it’s charity work, see our website for recent activities.

EMPOWER: CLOS-O-MAT

Helping increase dignity and independence after amputation E-Mail: info@clos-o-mat.com I Website: www.clos-o-mat.com I Tel: 0161 969 1199 I Freephone: 0800 374076

L

atest statistics show 100 people a week have a limb amputated from diabetes alone. The loss of a limb has a huge impact on the level of independence and dignity in day-to-day life for them and their family/carer- an impact that can be offset through thinking ‘outside the box’.

Installation of a Clos-o-Mat ‘wash and dry’ toilet, and/or Aerolet toilet lift, restores the ability to go the toilet- something we all do on average eight times a day!- without assistance. The Clos-o-Mat looks like a conventional WC but includes integral douche and drier, all operated by simple body pressure on the flush paddle. As a result, it eliminates the need to maneouvre and manually cleanse with toilet tissue.

The Aerolet, also supplied by Clos-o-Mat, replicates the natural motion of standing up and sitting down, gently raising and lowering the user to position them accurately over the toilet as required whilst enabling their feet to remain in contact with the floor and maintaining the centre of gravity above the feet for balance.

Ulem Grant is just one amputee who is appreciating the benefits of a Clos-o-Mat toilet. The Northamptonshire pensioner lost a leg through diabetes in 2010 and can no longer use his fingers. He had his Clos-o-Mat installed under a Disabled Facilities Grant on the advice of his Occupational Therapist, as he was dependant on his wife helping him on and off his conventional WC and was getting frustrated at his inability to flush the toilet on his own.

“It is fantastic, I am over the moon. It was so difficult to go the toilet, but not any more!

I can go whenever I want, without my wife having to help me,” he enthused. Added his wife Dawn, “I use it too! We were using so much toilet paper trying to get my husband clean, and he hated me having to help him all the time.”

Former physiotherapist Neil McCarthy similarly had a leg amputated as a result of diabetes, and has a Clos-o-Mat with optional arm supports. He says, “It has given me back my independence. However much you love someone, it’s not nice having to take them to the toilet and clean them afterwards. Before, if I had tried to ‘go’ on my own, I would have

fallen off the toilet when I tried to clean myself. The Clos-o-Mat cleans me, and the arms mean I have additional support if I need it.”

The Clos-o-Mat is the only unit of its kind developed specifically for disabled people, and is also the only one which carries WRAS approval for legal connection to the mains water supply. A range of accessories, including integral fold-down arm supports, soft arm sleeves, a touch sensitive switch and passive technology proxy switch, enable the Clos-o-Mat to be precisely tailored to individual and changing needs.

A choice of supply options is backed up by a comprehensive nationwide service and maintenance package, meaning a Clos-o-Mat will deliver up to 30 years’ reliable service for as little as 20p/day (refers to the initial purchase price of an Aerolet or Clos-o-Mat if used for 30 years). Clos-o-Mat has been manufacturing and supplying its toilets from its Manchester base for 50 years, and today has over 40,000 installed in locations from individual’s homes through leisure facilities and public buildings, and even on a tall ship.

> Clos-o-Mat Aerolet - In situ

> Clos-o-Mat Palma - In situ

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 47

Natural freedom from phantom limb phenomena Rachael Horton, hypnotherapy expert, explains how being mindful of the present moment can help eliminate phantom limb pain giving more joy and relief for phantom limb sufferers

Photographer: Dik Ng

EMPOWER: PAIN MANAGEMENT

Written By: Rachael Horton, Clinical Hypnotherapist I Website: www.change-4-life.com

H

ave you ever noticed when absorbed in something really enjoyable, such as gazing at a beautiful sunset, or relaxing with the sun gently warming your face, that phantom limb sensations diminish? This natural ability to dwell in a pleasant timeless present moment of the here and now is known as mindfulness.

Mindfulness has been found to ease pain by enabling us to observe thoughts, physical sensations and emotions without automatically reacting to them. Often alongside pain are pleasant sensations such as the warmth of your hands, or the softness of your breath. By simply

observing thoughts as if clouds gently passing in the sky creates a sense of freedom and kindness towards them offering relaxation and relief.

Experience mindfulness

Next time you eat, take a small mouthful of food and chew it fast without thinking about it.

Now repeat, but this time chew it very s-l-o-w-l-y. Experience the sensations of chewing, savour the taste and flavours, feel the textures and temperature. How does your experience compare? You’ll probably find that being mindful made the experience more pleasant and memorable.

Our patented range of socks, supports and sports recovery wear are scientifically proven to increase blood and oxygen supply by up to 17% to the required area. They are made from natural carbonised bamboo charcoal material and are moisture wicking, anti-microbial and odour free.

We have had amazing results in particular with the diabetics socks as foot health care is essential and our knee supports have made significant difference to the quality of life for anyone with knee problems.

Benefits: • Reduced pain and swelling • Foot health care (*Diabetics) • Warms feet by 3degC • Increased mobility • Faster recovery from injury • Faster recovery from exercise

Tel: 0113 239 7236 E-Mail: sales@incrediwear.co.uk Web: www.incrediwear.co.uk

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Follow us: @Empower_Mag

Want to get more out of life?

If you think back to a pleasant holiday you’ll remember only the most exciting times as these forced you to be mindful. Being mindful allows you to recall your past life better and enables us to get the most out of life by enjoying and appreciating the pleasant things and people around us.

Mini Mindfulness Methods

Here are some great ways to bring more mindfulness into your life.

Breathe and relax

Take a couple of minutes to follow your breath. Feel the gentle rise and fall of your abdomen and just observe your breathing as it begins to slow. Then visualise beautiful scenes such as a tranquil meadow and enjoy the pleasant feelings of relaxation. Making time to relax and ‘just be’ instead of always filling time doing will help improve your health and enable you to become more mindful.

Calm your mind and emotions

To calm your thoughts imagine a still lake a night with the moon reflecting off the crystal clear water. The calm stillness of the lake represents a mind free from worries. If you notice any changes in the water – perhaps choppy when anxious, then return your lake to a peaceful stillness.

Recognise thoughts are just thoughts

Thoughts are not solid facts and are constantly changing. Avoid buying into them by becoming a silent observer. Acknowledge thoughts, emotions and feelings. Then let them float by like gentle clouds or simply watch them as if you were an outside observer or actor in a movie.

Focus on pleasant experiences The key to mindfulness is to seek out positive experiences in everything you do and then tune into your senses. Focus on feeling good and enjoying the pleasant

things in life. Milton Erickson (an American psychiatrist) helped an amputee overcome PLP by changing their focus from what is painful to what is pleasant. If you experience discomfort at any time, simply shift your focus to pleasant sensations. For instance, if you’re lying in bed, it may be as simple as noticing the softness of the pillow beneath your head.

Spend time in nature

Spending time and appreciating nature is a great way to begin your mindfulness journey. Become openly aware of sights, sounds, tastes, feelings, sensations, smells.

Take time to pause to take in all of the senses. Notice if your mind wanders from the present moment, and gently return it back to your breath. Very quickly you’ll begin to notice when you ‘zone out’ and become naturally mindful.

Choose how you want to feel

How you feel at any moment and what you experience is always your choice. Choose how you want to feel right now, such as relaxed. Then let that chosen feeling instantly flow through your body. You can use this technique whenever you need to.

Laugh 40 Laughs

Laughter makes us feel good by elevating our mood and also reduces pain. It’s infectious too! The more you laugh, the more people join in and want to be with you.

It’s so wonderful to see the smiling happy face of young children who laugh around 40 times each day.

However, this tends to reduce to just 17 times (less than once per hour!) as we get older. Throughout each day, remind yourself to laugh (faking laughter counts too!). Aim for 40 laughs and keep a tally. Each day try to beat your previous days total.

Find out…

In the next feature, how to get a good night’s sleep when experiencing phantom limb pain and sensations.

EMPOWER: BIOELECTRONICS Advertorial

New Pain Relief Therapy for the Amputee

By Dr Kotak MA(Oxon), FRCA, MRCP. ActiPatch® Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy

Limb pain is a common and distressing problem following amputation and can severely impact quality of life. The aetiology of post amputation pain is often multifactorial, difficult to self manage, as well as posing a challenge to medical management.

Amputees experience various types of pain from a number of different causes including: immediate post-operative pain; extrinsic residual limb pain that is usually mechanical in origin related to the prosthetic socket or other prosthetic components; intrinsic residual limb pain that is often due to underlying disease process, surgical trauma, bone abnormality, local scar, neuroma, or central neuropathic phenomenon; and phantom limb pain.

ActiPatch® is an innovative technology in the form of a small, light wearable, noninvasive microelectronic medical device. The device emits a pulsatile electromagnetic field that penetrates the body without sensation to induce an electric field in the affected tissue or joint. ActiPatch reduces pain, inflammation and improves blood flow in the localized treatment

A

ActiPatch is available at most Boots stores and online at www. boots.com and costs £19.99 for 720 hours of treatment.

About the Author Get a sample at www.actipatch.com/sample

ActiPatch EmPower Mag UK A4 Half Page Advertorial 11-10-14.indd 1

ctiPatch works through clothing; it can be attached to the outside of a sock or tubigrip. Do not place the device between the prosthesis and stump, as there could be a risk of pressure related skin problems. Pain relief is not instantaneous; it builds over several days because the device alters the brain perception of pain as well as decreasing inflammation

site. As well as inducing a central neuromodulatory effect, caused by the stimulation of afferent nerves resulting in decreased pain perception by the brain, ActiPatch offers a new, economical, easy to use, drug free therapy to treat the different types of pain that amputees suffer from, without adverse side effects.

Dr Kotak is the Executive Vice President at BioElectronics Corporation, the manufacturer of ActiPatch® Therapy.

11/10/2014 3:44:27 PM

and pain locally. The device should be warn as much as possible for the first 7 days, initially at least 8-12 hours a day, but ideally continuously (move the device from the stump to as close as possible to painful site when wearing a prosthesis). Use ActiPatch in the worst area of pain, if there is more than one area, do not rotate between different areas every few hours as this decreases effectiveness.

ActiPatch has been trialled in a small number of amputees and the experience of most of them was very encouraging. The various types of pain suffered by amputees can be very recalcitrant to medical therapy and the drugs used for pain themselves often cause undesirable side-effects. ActiPatch decreased stump pain at rest and on movement as well as decreasing phantom limb pain and improving sleep. It does not reduce the pain to zero and does not work in all people; ActiPatch represents a new non-drug therapy that can help amputees’ better selfmange their pain and potentially have less reliance on drug therapy with its attendant problems. ActiPatch is very effective for musculoskeletal pain such as chronic low back pain and arthritis pain so it can be used in the other sorts of chronic pain that amputees might suffer from.

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 49

EMPOWER: PHYSIOPOD

FAQ prepared by: Mary Fickling, Director, PhysioPod UK (Left) and Elaine Cruickshank MacNicol RGN (Right) and Lymphoedema CNS

1. What are the clinically proven effects of the DEEP OSCILLATION® Personal?

• • • • • • • • • • • •

A significant reduction in pain Anti-inflammatory effect Anti-fibrotic effect Breakdown of hardened scar tissue Muscle relaxation Oedema reduction Haematoma absorption Stimulation of dynamic wound healing Movement facilitation Reduction of skin irritation Detoxifying effect Improvement in tissue quality

2. How can a person with an amputation benefit from using the treatment?

Following surgery this can result in localised swelling of the remaining limb.

This can also occur with atmospheric pressure changes and day to day wearing of their prosthesis. The increased swelling, caused by excess fluid, will exert pressure on internal structures and may result in tingling, numbness discomfort or indeed pain. Swelling can also alter the secure and very necessary fit of the prosthesis and make daily wearing of it uncomfortable.

Regular self-treatment with the DEEP OSCILLATION® Personal will help to reduce swelling; manage and control pain; lessen bruising; and reduce and smooth

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out any hardened scar tissue. All our pre-programmed conditions will naturally improve poor circulation too, thus improving any sensations felt in the remaining limb – in particular the cold feeling which is often experienced. The equipment is fully portable; applied by applicators and can be used in-flight and post flight to minimize swelling that has occurred.

Predominantly a person with an amputation would use this treatment to maintain circulation in the limb; to reduce swelling; minimize pain, and to reduce the reliance and need for prescribed medication. And, yes it can be used safely over implanted pins and plates.

3. How does the treatment work?

Will it hurt?

The contraindications outlined below are also in the manual accompanying the unit:

When the hand applicators are circled over the tissue layer an intermittent electrostatic field is created in the tissue layers to an 8cm depth (*Source: Cuban Burns Study). The tissue layers are attracted, and released from 5 to 250 times per second depending on the programme selected. This mechanism allows excess biological matter and abnormal fluid build up to be drained from the tissues, therefore allowing blood, oxygen and encouraging nutrients to re-enter the tissues. This accelerates the natural healing process. It is an extremely pleasant sensation and does not hurt at all.

• • • • • • • •

4. How many treatments will I need?

The treatment is available across the UK and Republic of Ireland and reputable Therapists are listed at www.physiopod.co.uk/ therapist-map.shtml

This type of treatment works very quickly, most patients initially follow a regime of once/twice a day; reducing to once a day; and then once on alternate days. This can be further reduced to perhaps once or twice a week depending on symptoms. It really depends on the individual. We need to stress, this cannot be ‘overused’.

5. Why would a person with an amputation use this? Can it be used over implanted pins and plates?

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6. Any safety precautions?

Acute infection Infectious skin disease Active tuberculosis Untreated thrombosis or vascular disorder Erysipelas or Cellulitis Untreated malignant diseases Untreated heart complaints or disease Cardiac pacemakers or other implanted stimulators • Pregnancy • Sensitivity to electrostatic fields

7. Where is the treatment available how much will it cost?

A session can vary between £25 - £75 depending on Therapist and location. It is recommended that individuals book in for a session to assess suitability and effectiveness of the treatment, before making the decision to invest in a DEEP OSCILLATION® Personal.

EMPOWER: SPORT

activity. Individuals with an above-knee amputation or multiple limb loss may need to focus on a sport you can do with or without your prostheses on as a good entry point.

However nothing is impossible, and some double and quadruple amputees participate in many different sports, including athletics cycling, swimming, sitting volleyball and basketball.

Provided By: LimbPower I Website: limbpower.com I Twitter: @LimbPower

How to get back into Sport post amputation

O

ne in six disabled people take part in regular exercise, yet according to our research many amputees of all ages and all abilities want to get back to fitness or to a sport they participated in preamputation, but they don’t know how to get started, who to talk to or where to go.

The main barriers to participation in sport for amputees and the ambulant disabled are: • Cost • Not having a comfortable leg/s • Unsure where to start • Physical pain • Self-conscious • Not having a leg/s that fits • No energy • Unable to get to facilities • No access to the venue • Not made to feel welcome • Health reasons Most of these barriers can be overcome by choosing a sport or activity which is suitable to your level of amputation and circumstances (If you have an uncomfortable socket you can choose a sport where you don’t wear your socket, such as swimming or sitting volleyball), other barriers, such as access and education of staff are being tackled by Sport England and the EFDS. LimbPower are working on education and access to information, working with amputees and the ambulant disabled on

how to get a better service and better fitting sockets, as well as sharing information and creating opportunities to enable participation at entry level in a safe and conducive environment among peers.

The first step is to choose the most appropriate sport for you, but how do you do this? If you were active in a sport before your amputation, this can seem like the most obvious choice, but that isn’t necessarily so. Your level of amputation, number of amputations and general fitness will influence which sport is best suited to your ability and lifestyle. Sometimes focusing on a sport you did pre-amputation is a good goal and can help you get back to the life you had before, but sometimes a new sport, or a new challenge can be just as rewarding and liberating, without the downside of not being as good as you were pre-amputation.

You can use the Parasport website to identify which sport is best suited to your level of amputation, as well as to find local clubs where you can play (www.parasport.org.uk).

If you are a below-knee amputee and you have a comfortable socket then you can take part in most sport that an able-bodied person can do. You might need to adapt the sport or equipment to suit your personal situation, but it should be possible. If you have lost your limb/s due to a pre-existing medical condition then you must consult with your doctor before taking part in any physical

Good entry points to sport to improve fitness and wellbeing are low cost and low impact options such as swimming, walking and cycling. The number of sports you can take part in are vast; Sport England recognise 185 sports ranging from the mainstream such as football, athletics and cycling through to the more unusual such as shooting, wakeboarding, ballooning, parkour, bobsleigh and croquet. There are various tools available on the Sport England website such as SpoGo (www.spogo.co.uk) which helps you find the nearest sports facility and local clubs, and Sportivate (www.sportengland.org/sportyou/give-sport-a-go/sportivate) aimed at 11-25 year olds and tells you what is available in your county.

The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) manages the Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI), with over 400 IFI Mark accredited gym facilities across the country, with trained staff and facilities specifically designed to helping disabled people access sport and fitness.

Enter your postcode to find your local IFI Gym (www.efds.co.uk/inclusive_fitness/ ifi_gyms).

LimbPower is a National Disability Sports Organisation whose aim is to provide amputees and ambulant disabled with the core skills and support to assist them in accessing sport. Through events such as ‘Learn to Run Clinics’, the ‘Advanced Rehab’ events and the ‘LimbPower Games’ we equip people with the knowledge to attempt a range of sports to find what best suits you. LimbPower also draws on a panel of experts to provide advice on nutrition, prosthetics, stump care, fitness, motivation and contacts for each of the individual sports and their National Governing Bodies. In 2015 LimbPower will be launching a series of ‘Introduction to Sport Workshops” as well as offering events in partnership with WheelPower and CP Sport to widen access to as many people as possible.

In addition to this LimbPower has thriving community groups where amputee and ambulant disabled people can share experiences, encouragement and friendship.

The benefits of getting active and taking part in sport are far-reaching and life-changing, so if you would like to get involved get in touch and take the first step. www.limbpower.com

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 51

EMPOWER: ENGLAND AMPUTEE FOOTBALL What’s the sport’s biggest challenge?

“Funding, without a doubt. Fundraising is tough at the best of times, but even more so this year because we have to get the team to Mexico for the World Cup. We’ve had no funding from the FA since 2006, but fortunately this year we received support from Scantec Recruitment.

Takeda’s support since 2010 has been fantastic – ultimately, that’s what has allowed us to compete in two World Cups, and to raise public awareness and increase participation by producing our brochure. Amputee football is a minority sport, and it’s amazing that a big company like Takeda had the vision to support us. They recently donated a further £10,000 to cover the costs of taking the GBAF international squad to Mexico for the World Cup.”

“

¡Hola Mexico we’re on our way to the World Cup!

“

A

s the Great Britain Amputee Football (GBAF) team gets ready to play in the Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico in December, Empower magazine caught up with playermanager Dave Tweed to get the lowdown on the fast moving sport.

How can readers get involved with amputee football?

“We welcome anyone. They can go on to the website, or call the Association. Attend one of the training sessions. We’d love to hear from anyone interested in playing or supporting the team.”

Who can play amputee football?

“The sport is aimed at amputee players of all ages who are fit enough to compete in the 50-minute matches. Players include cancer survivors, ex-services personnel, accident

Page 52 -

Sadly, we lost our Captain Tom Jordan to cancer earlier this year. Although we miss him greatly, the reaction has been really constructive from everyone who knew him (and some who didn’t), in that they’ve celebrated his life and memory by helping the charities he supported.” victims and people born with congenital limb deficiencies. The England Amputee Football Association (EAFA) was founded to give all amputees and others with restricted use of their limbs the opportunity to play football at every level: locally, nationally and internationally.”

How big is amputee football in the UK at the moment?

“We have around 80 amputees playing football in this country, and we’re hoping to attract many more. The EAFA league has been really successful over the past couple of years in organising five monthly meetings during the season, with a league cup competition at the FA’s national football centre, St George’s Park. The team members are inspiring examples to others who refuse to allow limb loss or limb disability to limit their lives. Our junior sessions started really promisingly, but inevitably the number of participants gradually fell away because of the distances involved. In the first instance, we tend to signpost both junior and adult players to local pan-disability sessions, and then get them together at our monthly EAFA league meetings, where our experienced coaches can provide some coaching support.”

What about women players?

“Not yet, but we’re working on it. The Polish, American and Irish teams have female players, but unfortunately none have expressed interest in joining the GB squad so far. It’s a pity, because when we run our awareness sessions for schools and sports groups, girls seem to enjoy the experience just as much as the boys.”

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Have you ever thought of holding the World Cup in the UK?

“The World Cup is the pinnacle of the game, and every player wants to compete at that level. We’d love to host the world championship one year, but the expense would be prohibitive. We have a couple of partners in the Lancashire FA and Stockport Sports Village, where we know we could hold the event very successfully, but it comes down to cost. The best we can hope for at the moment is to host mini-tournaments, as we have in the past, to keep the international game visiting these shores.”

What of the future?

“Having the GB Amputee Football team competing in the World Cup helps us to raise the sport’s profile at home and recruit more support for the team as well as providing inspiration for the many amputees and other disabled people who may be sitting at home thinking that there’s nothing out there for them take part in.

To develop the sport in general and the national squad in particular, we really need to employ a professional development officer, who could help us achieve a lot more than we currently do as volunteers. That post also requires funding of course, so if there are any other imaginative and far-sighted sponsors out there…”

You can contact Dave at fdo@theeafa.co.uk To find out more about amputee football in the UK: www.theeafa.co.uk. Donations: www.everyclick.com/amputeefootball

EMPOWER: PACE REHABILITATION

The Personal Touch Website: pacerehab.com I Twitter: @PaceRehab I E-Mail: info@pacerehab.com

T

hanks in part to increased media exposure, amputees are now often proud to show off their prosthetic devices and regularly want to personalise them with a funky appearance.

As prosthetist Howard Woolley explains, “Shaping prosthesis with foam and covering with a stocking is one option for finishing a prosthesis, but there are some exciting alternatives which many people are exploring.”

Prosthetic manufacturers have reacted to this patient demand, with companies such as Ottobock and Ossur providing their own solutions to protect and aesthetically cover their sophisticated Genium and Rheo knees respectively.

Independent companies are also producing some stunning and innovative solutions, for example UNYQ create a computer generated model from a series of measurements and images to provide a 3-D printed cover that exactly fits a prosthesis.

Patients can select from a wide range of designs and colours for their bespoke cover, as Manuel Boza (UNYQ’s Chief Creative Officer) says, “We are providing patients with real choice and are excited that Pace Rehabilitation has embraced this by becoming the UK’s first provider of our bespoke covers.”

A cover can also provide a discrete and functional solution to restoring the user’s body shape, enabling clothing to hang more naturally over a prosthesis.

Another popular solution to personalise a prosthesis is to incorporate a material design or pattern into the final stages when manufacturing the socket. This typically suits a pin lock or seal-in suspension system, where the prosthetic socket is not obscured by a suspension sleeve.

As Howard explains, “Having achieved comfort and function for the patient, they will often ask us to incorporate a design of how they want their prosthesis to finally look. Their idea can be on a scrap of paper, something they have seen on the internet, or more simply reflect their football team or pastime.”

Adding, “Not everything is achievable, but by using processes such as hydro coating or laminating in a material design, we can provide a prosthesis with a finish and appearance that they are proud to wear and show off.”

amputation can be profound and long lasting for some and challenging for others. The benefits of incorporating some personalisation should not be underestimated. It not only gives the user a greater sense of participation in their prosthetic manufacture, it can also be an aid to acceptance”.

Sue adds, “By putting a little of themselves into the prosthesis, the whole dynamic changes. A young patient recently told me that knowing his personalised leg looked so cool gave his confidence a much needed boost.”

Ultimately, a clinician is endeavouring to deliver a functional prosthesis. Often patient satisfaction can be enhanced by personalising a prosthesis, so the team at Pace are always happy to try to accommodate potential personalised options with their patients.

The effects of personalising a prosthetic can go beyond the aesthetics, as Pace Specialist Counsellor Sue Turner explains, “The psychological effect of

www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 53

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• Improves thermo-regulation • Improves cell metabolism • Increases blood circulation • Increases tissue oxygen levels • Reduces muscle spasms • Increases extensibility of collagen tissues • Speeds recovery in Sport

Follow us: @Empower_Mag

• • • • • •

Improves thermo-regulation Reduces muscle spasms Speeds recovery Reduces swelling Reduces pain Improves blood circulation

> For a complete list of benefits and applications visit: www.absolute360.co.uk

@absolute360

absolute360.co.uk

info@absolute360.co.uk

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h t t p : / / w w w. a b s o l u t e 3 6 0 . c o . u k

• Far Infrared Knee Support

C L O T H I N G & A P PA R E L

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Wear ABSOLUTE 360 during any physical activity for more power and endurance, as a recovery aid after exercise, when recovering from injury, or every day for improved well-being and as part of a healthy life style.

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• Far Infrared Long Socks

Far infrared rays are invisible waves of energy that can penetrate all layers of the human body, right into the innermost regions of the tissues, muscles and bones, naturally generating heat by causing the subcutaneous proteins, collagens, fats, and water molecules to vibrate, elevating

tissue temperatures and causing the blood vessels to dilate.

Scientific studies show that this improvement in blood circulation delivers more oxygen to the tissues, which provides a range of therapeutic effects. Far infrared rays help to gently heal, soothe, stimulate and detox the body.

• Far Infrared Leggings

ABSOLUTE 360 Clothing and Apparel with a difference – The difference is infrared. ABSOLUTE 360 clothing and apparel are at the cutting edge of technology of textile innovation. They are the most advanced range of products for wellness, performance and recovery. They are made from an innovative fibre that produces a natural and constant infrared emission (FIR) on the body, improving the body’s own physiology and offering everyone an improved physical and physiological state of well-being.

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EMPOWER: SPORT

®

Welcome to the dark side CarbonFX® is a revolutionary range of decorative finishes designed to enhance the look of your laminated prosthetic socket. Based on carbon fibre and glass fibre materials, the final product looks eye-catching and dynamic.

Currently available in six colours/designs, North Sea Plastics CarbonFX® raises the bar for prosthetic socket design.

SilverShield® antimicrobial thermoplastic - proven to prevent bacterial growth.

Available on a range of North Sea Plastics products, SilverShield® contains an antimicrobial additive using Silver ion technology which inhibits bacterial growth on the surface of the material. As a result SilverShield® helps to eliminate unpleasant stale odours.

Independent laboratory tests show a >99.99% reduction in the bacteria count after a 24 hour period.

For more information - www.northseaplastics.com

EMPOWER: DISABLED ACCESS DAY

Disabled Access Day is all about getting out there and trying something new Website: www.DisabledAccessDay.com I Twitter: @Access_Day I Facebook: facebook.com/DisabledAccessDay

I

t is hoped that on the 17th of January 2015, attractions and venues will use the opportunity to show off their disabled access and that people will discover new places to go.

involved, demonstrating their commitment to accessibility.

Details of the latest events taking place throughout the country can be found at www.

DisabledAccessDay.com.

Anyone can take part in Disabled Access Day. We are encouraging people to visit somewhere that they have never been before. That could simply be trying a different cinema or café for the first time, a day out to visit a museum you’ve always wanted to visit or even something more adventurous, like a trip to Amsterdam with one of the travel agencies taking part. It is a day to explore places near and far.

Businesses of all different sizes will be taking part in the day. From national tourist attractions to local businesses, there is a great variety of activities on offer.

We are pleased to be supported

by BT, Standard Life, Visit England, Visit Scotland and Visit Wales. Visit England have said that they are ‘delighted to support Disabled Access Day, helping people with access needs discover great accessible experiences throughout England’. Visit Wales are taking part in the event to ‘raise awareness of the wide variety of accessible attractions, activities and accommodation establishments that Wales has to offer’.

Many other groups, organisations and businesses are also getting Page 56 -

If you are in London, there is a hub of activity along the river from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge. We are pleased to welcome The National Theatre, the Tate Modern, Houses of Parliament and Borough Market to our list of participating venues.

North of the Border there are also many events planned. In Edinburgh, the flagship event (no pun intended!) will be held at the Royal Yacht Britannia where there will be discounted entry and fun activities to keep the children entertained. There will also be an opportunity to meet assistance dogs and learn about the work they do.

Others are getting involved and events being organised as we write – The Deep in Hull won in Visit England’s Gold “Access For

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All” award in 2011. On Disabled Access Day, visitors will be able to enjoy access the aquarium, home to a whopping 3,500 fish, at a discounted rate. The Roald Dahl Museum is also taking part and aiming to give all its visitors a buzzwangling experience!

Euan’s Guide, the disabled access review website and app, is lead sponsor of the initative. Kiki MacDonald, Co-Founder of Euan’s Guide, commented: “Promoting good disabled access is at the core of what we do, so this campaign is close to our hearts. We hope many people get involved with the initiative, and feel inspired to see a part of the country they’ve never seen, or engage in activities that they don’t typically do.”

Whatever you do for Disabled Access Day, make sure that you share your experiences by telling your friends or through social media. By talking and tweeting about great disabled access, more and more businesses will realise that by improving their accessibility they will attract new customers. The message of Disabled Access Day is simple: Get exploring!

Get involved now by visiting www.disabledaccessday.com.

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Sage Gateshead offers a wealth of music and musical learning opportunities for individuals who have special educational needs and/or disabilities.

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www.empowermagazine.org.uk - Page 57

Legal Advice from Irwin Mitchell Compensation is only part of the story as limbloss and amputations have a dramatic and life-changing impact not only for the person injured but also for those who are close to them.

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Personal Injury

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