Assistive Technologies by Script Media

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INNOVATION FOR INDEPENDENCE

ISSUE 86 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012 £6.95

Muscle signal development excites experts By Helen Williams

surface, back to the half-centre.

THE muscle signals that control walking have been recreated in a robotics version by a team from the University of Arizona.

Matt Thornton, gait analysis laboratory manager at the UK's Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, said: “Previous robotic models have mimicked human movement: this one goes further and mimics the underlying human control mechanisms driving that movement.

Experts in the UK have hailed the work as having “very exciting implications for increased understanding of patients with spinal cord injury.” Writing in the Journal of Neural Engineering, the team described how they replicated the central pattern generator (CPG) – a nerve cell (neuronal) network in the lumbar region of the spinal cord that generates rhythmic muscle signals. The CPG produces, and then controls, these signals by gathering information from different parts of the body involved in walking, responding to the environment. This is what allows people to walk without thinking about it. The simplest form of a CPG is called a halfcentre, which consists of just two neurons that fire signals alternatively, producing a rhythm, as well as sensors that deliver information, such as when a leg meets a

“It may offer a new approach to investigate and understand the link between nervous system control problems and walking pathologies.” Existing systems for analysing how people walk, so-called gait analysis performed by the RNOH and others, accurately measure hip, knee, and ankle joint movements in 3D while patients walk on a treadmill. Matt said: “The robotic model may go one step further than conventional gait analysis, in linking these problems to the nervous system, which actually controls the movement.” He added: “The implications for increased understanding of, for example, patients with spinal cord injury are very exciting.”

Oscar Pistorius has become the first amputee sprinter to be selected to compete in the Olympics. Oscar was banned from competing alongside able-bodied athletes just before the 2008 Olympics – a ruling he later had overturned. He has expressed his delight at being selected to run in the individual men’s 400m and 4x400m relay on behalf of Team South Africa. Full story: Page 21

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Law change on medicine prescribing By Helen Williams PHYSIOTHERAPISTS and podiatrists in England are to get the right to prescribe medicines by themselves. Ministers agreed to the change in the law after carrying out a consultation, but it will be 2014 before it is fully rolled out. When physios and podiatrists do start prescribing they will become the first in the world to be given such powers. And it will mean patients do not have to go back to GPs to get drugs such as antiinflammatories and painkillers.The changes have still to be approved by Parliament. But the decision by ministers to press ahead marks a significant milestone in the

long-running campaign to extend prescribing powers. Over the past ten years senior nurses have been given more responsibility for prescribing and it has long been argued that other health professionals should also get the powers too. Health minister Lord Howe said: “By introducing these changes, we aim to make the best use of their skills and allow patients to benefit from a faster and more effective service.” Dr Helena Johnson, of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, said the move would “hugely improve” the care physios could provide. “Patients will now receive a more streamlined and efficient service, meaning they get the medicines they need more immediately,” she added.

Double amputee soldier beats Death Valley challenge A FORMER soldier who had an arm and leg blown off clearing land mines has completed one of the world’s toughest ultra marathons. Double amputee Chris Moon, 50, was celebrating after finishing the 135-mile Badwater run in Death Valley, California, in 55oC temperatures at the end of July. The ex-Army officer from Strathaven, Lanarkshire, lost his right arm and leg in Mozambique in 1995. He finished the course in less than 42 hours – an hour ahead of his target time. Afterwards, the dadof-three posted a snap of himself online with his medal. He added: “Finished! 41 hours, 58 mins, 38

Contacts Editorial Judith Halkerston Group Editor editorial@assistivetechnologies.co.uk Dominic Musgrave Healthcare Editor Email: dm@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734407 Helen Williams Reporter Email: helenw@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734694

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Chris Moon

secs. Hurrah. Huge thanks for all your support. Time for a sleep.” Chris had previously done the course in 53 hours. His efforts will raise funds for charities including O2E, which helps disabled and disadvantaged children.

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Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all contents, the publishers do not accept liability for any error, printed or otherwise, that may occur.

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TrustLink to share its expertise with UK partners CHESHIRE-based telecare specialist TrustLink has launched a consultancy advising on support services for independent living. Set up by Peaks & Plains Housing Trust, TrustLink is a not-for-proft organisation. It advises on all aspects of telecare support, from systems and processes to manufacturer and supplier connections, joint procurement initiatives, product intelligence and installation techniques. The TrustLink team includes specialists in emerging technologies, a control centre delivering 24-hour support and a response service tailored to customer needs. The organisation plans to work with a limited number of partners each year, to maintain its commitment to quality standards and carefully manage its growth. It has established its reputation over the past 30 years and earned the Platinum membership accreditation from the TSA (Telecare Services Association). Andy Lofthouse, new business manager from Peaks & Plains, said: “As a not-for-profit organisation, we have reinvested continually into the TrustLink service to ensure it is in a prime position to take to market. “We’re looking to team up with selected organisations that fit with our brand and our commitment to excellence and sound ethics.”

Have you got a story for us? Call our newsdesk on 01226 734694 or email helenw@scriptmedia.co.uk

Wounded soldiers tackle long-distance challenge By Helen Williams A TROOP of wounded British soldiers embarked on one of their most challenging tours yet, travelling from Inverness to Plymouth on a motorbike and sidecar from the 1930s in just seven days. The four soldiers were aiming to raise £10,000 for Troop Aid and Pilgrim Bandits, two charities who have supported them since they were injured. They took it in turns to travel the 643 miles, stopping off at Best Western hotels along the way. Sergeant Colin Hamilton from Inverness and John Sandford Hart from Christchurch shared the driving of the classic ‘BSA G14 Combo’ motorbike from 1937, provided by the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham. Sapper Jimmy Wilson and Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson took it in turns to accompany them in a side car to complete the journey. Starting on July 9 in Inverness and finishing in Plymouth on July 15, the riders were accompanied by a ten-strong team following them along their epic journey providing support and essential care and refreshments. The support team included a physiotherapist and the mother of a fellow seriously injured soldier. The route was carefully chosen so that not only could the team use A and B roads for careful motorcycling but could also benefit from the complimentary accommodation and meals at Best Western hotels along the way. All having received serious and multiple injuries the soldiers were hit in action between 2001 and

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Ben Parkinson, right, with Sgt Colin Hamilton

2011. Both Colin and John received right leg amputations, whilst Ben and Jimmy needed both legs amputating after life threatening injuries. Colin was serving in Kosovo when he was injured by an electric cable whilst John was injured in a boat accident whilst serving in the TA. Both Ben and Jimmy were hit by

IEDs (roadside bombs) in Afghanistan. The route saw the team stop off in Pitlochry, Dunfermline, Selkirk, Sedgefield, York, Doncaster, Kegworth, Coventry, Birmingham, Swindon, Wells, Yeovil, Newton Abbot and Exeter before reaching its final destination of Plymouth.

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World first in splint design A DESIGN and technology consultancy and a start-up company worked together to develop the world’s first disposable orthopaedic splint. Cambridge Design Partnership teamed up with medical technology business Flexycast Ltd to develop the easy to use splint. Each day in England around 2,000 patients seek treatment for limb injuries and ‘ResQSplint®’ is designed to allow first responders to quickly and effectively stabilise these in one simple, safe process. Currently, first aid limb splints are bulky and often ill-equipped to deal with the full variety of limb injuries that present to emergency care teams. ResQsplint® is a compact, adaptable, single-use splint that improves the immobilisation of the injured limb as well as reducing pain and collateral damage to limb tissues. All the first aider has to do is to take the splint from its protective pack, activate it by squeezing and then gently form it around the broken limb, securing it in place with the Velcro ties. Within a few minutes the splint

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automatically hardens supporting the limb ready to transport the patient to hospital. Because it is single-use, the splint can also help reduce the incidence of infection associated with open wounds and fractures, and in turn significantly improve clinical outcomes and reduce costs to the overall healthcare system. The splint could potentially be used

beyond the traditional emergency services in any environment, such as sports venues and workplaces, where first aiders encounter broken limbs. The ResQsplint® concept was the brainchild of British orthopaedic surgeon Charles Stacey. He said: “After years of working in A&E, prehospital care and disaster relief, it was clear that there was a need for

a better splinting solution. The initial treatment of a fracture plays a crucial role in the outcome for the patient. The ResQsplint® disposable splint design promises to offer better immobilisation of the limb reducing pain for the patient, and later-stage injury complications.” Cambridge Design Partnership and Flexycast are now seeking potential licensees for the new technology.

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Melanie Reid, right, with Annie Maw, Trustee of the Southern Spinal Injuries Trust.

Occupational therapists taught me how to live again ... AWARD-WINNING columnist and writer for The Times, Melanie Reid, addressed the College of Occupational Therapists’ Annual Conference in Glasgow. Melanie, recently named Columnist of the Year at the British Press awards, described how occupational therapy helped her cope with daily living after being paralysed from a horse riding accident in 2010. A keen horse rider for 30 years, Melanie was thrown from her horse, breaking her neck and back. She was airlifted to the Southern General Hospital in Glasgow where she received expert care and rehabilitation for 12 months. Melanie said: “I didn’t really have a clue what an occupational therapist did until after my accident. Quite simply they taught me how to live again, in a practical sense. My occupational therapists at the spinal unit in Glasgow, and then in the community when I returned home, showed me the art of the possible – how to use my hands, make a coffee, put on my clothes and shave my legs. Along the way they provided me with huge emotional support and some great laughs, for which I will always be grateful.”

Wounded soldiers take on one of world’s toughest endurance contests SERIOUSLY-wounded British soldiers defied the odds to complete a 3,000-mile cycle ride across the US. Eight disabled servicemen received a heroes' welcome on crossing the finishing line in Annapolis, Maryland, just seven days and eight hours after setting off from Oceanside, California. Covering up to 500 miles per day and scaling heights totaling more than 100,000ft, the adapted bike riders raised almost £100,000 for Help For Heroes. They rode in relay around the clock, one on the road at a time and averaging more than 17 miles

per hour, followed by 18 support crew. Amongst ‘Team Battle Back’ was Sgt Simon Harmer, who lost his legs to a bomb, and who said the 3,051-mile relay was “one of the hardest things I've ever done.” The Bosnia and Iraq war veteran, married to Marisa with whom he has ten-month-old daughter Sophia, used a 'sit-down' bike to cover the distance. The coast-to-coast Race Across America (RAAM) is one of the world's toughest endurance contests.

Crossing 12 states, through deserts, mountains and plains, it is further than the Tour de France. Alice Robson from Help for Heroes said: “It really was incredible, the team completed the race in just seven days, seven hours and 38 minutes ... smashing their eightday target. “They received a huge hero's welcome as they arrived into Annapolis. The cheers were deafening and everyone wanted to shake their hands and show their admiration for completing such an epic challenge.”

Californian company develops custom ‘fairings’ for prosthetic limbs A COMPANY in California is offering custom coverings shaped to fit the contours of a prosthetic limb, which can be designed by the amputee. Bespoke Innovations has developed a covering, or 'fairing', for prosthetic limbs, which can be made from different materials, finishes, patterns and graphics, including chrome plating, nylon fabric, leather and illustrations mimicking tattoos. Using 3D technology, the company scans both the prosthetic limb and the unaltered limb to create a fairing that is proportional and based on the contours of an amputee's body. The amputee can then design their own 6

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custom fairing using an online tool, the Configurator. The fairings weigh about 6.6 ounces and can be easily cleaned in a dishwasher. Company spokesman Chad Crittenden said: “In theory, people from anywhere in the world can access our services. “It is a matter of sending photos, getting a scan – most of the time we host scan candidates here in San Francisco – and designing the fairing. “We're very close to the point where prosthetists/candidates can send in their own scan data for our use.”

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Trials and tribulations in the spotlight

Mountaineer and ex soldier Henry Chaplin watches Private Jaco van Gass test his prosthetic ice axe.

THE Walking With The Wounded Everest 2012 team, supported by Glenfiddich, presents the trials and tribulations of the expedition at an event in London. On September 5 at the Royal Geographical Society, the team will not only talk about their experiences on the mountain, but the selection and training they underwent to successfully summit the world's 8th highest peak, Manaslu, some 8,156 m (26,759 ft) in October last year. The team had to abandon the Everest attempt in May because of safety concerns that the unusually warm weather had turned the mountain into “a death trap”. They did, however, reach the summit of

20,000ft neighbouring Lobuche. At the London event, they will also discuss their own experiences of being wounded and how they have faced new challenges as a result of their injuries. Tickets are £25 each with proceeds going to Walking With The Wounded. The charity – which counts HRH Prince Harry and actor Brian Blessed among its supporters – has partnered with Chelsea AutoLegends (CAL) for 2012 and gives another presentation at the CAL dinner on September 1. They will be fundraising at the motorsport festival in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea on September 2.

Olympic torch bearer Bobby overwhelmed JUST 20 months after elective leg amputation surgery, 32-year-old Bobby Griffin carried the Olympic torch through Bitton near his hometown of Bath. Bobby was overwhelmed by the public support and encouragement he received as he jogged with the golden torch, displaying his belowthe-knee prosthesis. After passing the Olympic flame onto the next torch bearer, Bobby reflected on the past two years. “It has been a challenging journey. From some very dark days, when I was still considering having the amputation, to now running with the Olympic torch. It has been an incredible chapter.” Bobby’s remarkable rehabilitation has seen him win medals at the Limbpower Amputee Games, just weeks after his amputation. He then progressed to National, European and International success at ParaBadminton, as well as playing in disabled golf competitions. Recently he also trekked up North Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Toubkal and completed a lap of the Isle of Man TT circuit on a mobility scooter, all for charity. In among all this, he even got married to his university sweetheart Lauren. 8

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Ian McPherson, Simplicare group managing director (left), Sophia Warner, and Laurence Faulkner, Simplicare Centre director.

By Helen Williams

Paralympian opens Brighton centre BRITISH Paralympian gold medal hopeful Sophia Warner took time out from her hectic training schedule to open the new Simplicare Centre in Brighton. The centre comprises a care and mobility store and offices providing care and disability products and services, incorporating domiciliary and care recruitment agencies. It is the first to be launched by Simplicare in the region. Sophia Warner, a sprinter in the T35 100m and 200m class, currently ranked number one in Europe and number two in the world, has cerebral palsy and juggles her athletic career while being a mother of two young children.

Toy robots are controlled by minds in study She said: “My cerebral palsy can affect my day to day life but there are so many aids to assist life and help control my condition. Centres such as the Simplicare Centre are essential to people living with disability, as they offer choices which extend freedom and independent living.” Demands on the care sector in Sussex are going to increase over the next 14 years with an expected growth in the population aged over 85 of 31,000. That works out as a 64% rise on today's numbers. With this added population will come increases in cases of dementia and other health-related issues. Services such as telecare and telehealth that the Simplicare Centre offers will help meet those needs.

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BRAIN researcher Nick Ramsey of the University Medical Centre (UMC) Utrecht in the Netherlands has managed to get study subjects to control a toy robot with their minds. The breakthrough forms the basis of a brain-computer interface that will allow paralysed people to control a computer. In the study, subjects had to lie still in a powerful, 7T MRI scanner, while the computer screen showed them what a toy robot’s camera could ‘see’. The subjects did not move, but had to keep their eyes focused on a single point. As the MRI scanner measured the brain activity, the computer learnt when the subjects were thinking left, right or forwards. In this way, Ramsey and other UMC Utrecht colleagues have enabled four subjects to control a robot. The robot successfully completed a

course of about nine metres with four stops along the way, while the ‘driver’ was lying elsewhere in an MRI scanner. “All four study subjects were able to control the robot very quickly,” said Ramsey. “They all felt in control of the robot. This means that this type of braincomputer interface is very easy to master. Training is barely needed.” Ramsey is working on a braincomputer interface that will allow paralysed people to control a computer, and to achieve this, hopes to implant electrodes into these patients’ brains to measure brain activity. Ramsey believes that controlling the robot through the MRI scanner will be a first step for these patients. If the paralysed people manage to control the robot, the investigators and doctors may then decide to implant electrodes in their brains.

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Amputee Natalie rises to the O2 building challenge NATALIE Harris-Gregory has become the first amputee to stand on top of the O2 building, having successfully ascended one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Natalie took the challenge in her stride, although she was forced to wait before being allowed to make her walk over the 365-meter diameter construction.

The challenge was part of ‘Up at The O2,’ one of the capital’s newest and most exhilarating experiences, with participants scaling the 50-metre high canopy section of the world famous building.

She said: “The organisers were asking me so many questions. They wanted to put an extra person on just for me, but there was no need.”

After returning safely back to ground, an exhilarated Natalie said: “The view of the London you get up there is well worth the climb.” Natalie had accepted the gauntlet laid down by her prosthetist Jamie Gillespie a few weeks previously. In 2005 she had sustained a below the knee amputation of her right leg, following a road traffic accident. Despite her injuries, she has never shied away from a challenge, having also completed a 13,000 feet free-fall parachute jump for charity in 2009.

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Once on the summit, Natalie posed for photos, proudly holding her prosthesis. She said: “This and the parachute jump prove that your life doesn’t have to end after a serious accident. Jamie and the team at PACE Rehabilitation provide me with a prosthesis that lets me get on with my life, so I do.”

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‘Wearable robot’ creator opens first Ekso store

Technology on show

EKSO Bionics, designer and creator of exoskeletons that physically augment humans, has opened its first Ekso Store in Melbourn, Cambridge.

The event returns to London next March as a key element in the NHS’s drive to transform its health care services. It features such keynote speakers as health secretary Andrew Lansley and NHS chief executive Sir David Nicholson.

The project is in collaboration with Prime Physio, a physiotherapy centre specialising in sports injury and rehabilitation. Ekso is a ‘wearable robot’ that powers wheelchair users up, enabling them to stand and walk. The battery-powered bionic suit is designed for users with spinal cord injuries, lower-limb weakness/paralysis and pathologies that inhibit their ability to walk. The store will give people the opportunity to better understand the technology, its potential and clinical benefits of bionic exoskeleton technology. Ekso will be available to purchase for home use under clinical supervision with delivery in September this year. The suit is strapped over the user’s clothing and can be adjusted in a few minutes to fit most people

Pictured, from left, Andy Hayes of Ekso Bionics, Dr Mark Bacon of Spinal Research, Mark Pollock an inspirational speaker and Ekso pilot, and Andy Galbraith of Prime Physio.

weighing 100kg or less, and standing between 157cm to 188cm, with at least partial upper body strength. It met Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements earlier this year and has received the European CE Marking Certification, qualifying as a medical device to be incorporated into rehabilitation programmes. In the past four months, Ekso Bionics

has delivered the suit to the top ten rehabilitation clinics in the USA and recently started deliveries in Europe. A pan European study is underway to quantify the benefits of being upright and walking. Andy Hayes, MD of Ekso Bionics EMEA, said: “Nearly 300 people have walked in Ekso and the Ekso Store challenges people to come and try this technology for themselves.”

EXHIBITORS will showcase technologies and devices ranging from surgical robotics to telemetry equipment at the Healthcare Innovation Expo 2013.

Now in its third year, the expo takes place at the ExCel exhibition centre on March 13-14. It will feature over 250 organisations, as well as 100 seminars led by international experts, and is expected to draw an international audience of 10,000 delegates from the public, private, academic, scientific and business communities. Miles Ayling, director of innovation and service improvement at the Department of Health, said: “Now, more than ever, innovation has a vital role to play in delivering higher quality care and value for money while at the same time driving economic growth.” The NHS is currently committed to producing £20bn of efficiency savings by 2015.

Scanner launches in UK A new MRI scanning technology has launched into the UK – with the aim of making quick, low cost scanning possible in any primary care setting. Esaote’s O-scan combines compact MRI technology with a simple user interface to offer GPs, primary care centres and specialist clinics access to instant imaging. It is designed to challenge perceptions that MRI has to be big and expensive. Esaote says O-scan is space saving, easy to install and easy to use. The scanner is geared for physicians to scan a patient in situ and capture images quickly to be easily shared with specialists (radiologists) as required, so enabling faster diagnosis and treatment. The product features a fully adjustable chair system for patient comfort and flexibility of scanning, and comes with all network, archiving and documentation features. Cor van der Flier, Esaote’s UK managing director, said as the NHS 12

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reshapes and reorganises, it is expected that demand for compact MRI systems will increase in the UK – as it has in continental Europe. Dr Marco Davico, an MSK Radiologist at the Medicine, Sport & Research Clinic in Turin, Italy, has been using the O-scan for a year with patients. He said: “Our clinic is busy, with three exams per hour, twelve hours a day. So far, we have scanned over 4,000 patients, of which only ten had to be re-scanned – usually due to a suspected tumour. We sometimes opt for the O-scan having already tried a large MRI, because studying the peripheral joint of the upper limb is more comfortable for the patient, particularly if they are elderly.”

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F YE FLYERS FLY ERS S BROCHURES BR B RO OCHU UR RE ES NEWSLETTERS NE EW WS SL LET TT TERS S E-SHOTS E-SHO OT TS S POSTERS PO P OST TE ERS S LOGO LO L OGO D DES DESIGN SIG GN N STATIONERY ST S TAT TIO ON NE ER RY Y WEBSITE WEB W BS SIT TE E DE D DESIGN SIGN N Script pt Media Design ign and Print off offer a dedicated ted service that hat is second-to-none. to-n This me means that you ou n not only gett th the very highest standards, get a focused team of experts from start hig ard you also ge d te erts who will look oo after everything ryth tar to finish. We would ld like to see iff th there is an opportunity pp to wo work with you u on o any upcoming om guides,, brochures, b leaflets eafl or newsletters. sle By working together you will be able to offload any design the absolute ork er to t achieve the very best results, res offl esig or print job to us with th nfi hou the whole ep ns confidence that ev every detail will be looked aft after throughout process. Ourr co commitmentt to customer se service means that we will liaise step off the what you need. th iais with you every ev th way to achieve chie exactly w ed.

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Farm injury ‘more Teenage athlete likely to lead to amputation’ Sophie By Helen Williams US farmers injured in their line of work are two and a half times more likely to require amputation than workers in any other sector, according to a report by Northwestern University. The findings, published in the journal ‘Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology,’ suggest that although most amputations involve fingers or toes, protheses for hands, arms, legs and feet are not durable or adaptive enough for individuals who return to work on the farm. Options available are frequently unaffordable. Stefania Fatone, research associate professor in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Feinberg (the school of medicine at Northwestern University), said: “There are lot of issues and challenges to farming with a prosthesis. These workers often need to climb ladders and silos, lift bags of feed and seed and walk on uneven terrain, in all kinds of weather conditions. Also, a dairy

farmer may have very different needs than a corn farmer or cattle rancher.” Over 2,400 people in the US agricultural sector require amputations each year. Farmers who have suffered amputations from farm injuries say that being in a rush and not following safety rules cost them their limb. Adhering to strict safety precautions would greatly reduce the number of amputations among agricultural workers each year. The Northwestern study notes several areas in which existing prosthetic options have proven problematic, according to interviews with amputee farmers. Many study participants said they had fallen or received secondary injuries while using their prosthesis. Breakage from exposure to weather, dirt and extreme heat and cold also proved serious issues, and amputations were costly for farmers who frequently did not have insurance.

wins bronze medal

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YOUNG athlete Sophie Kamlish, 15, made an inspiring debut at the Paralympic World Cup (PWC) at Manchester’s Regional Arena. The Bath schoolgirl, who has a below knee amputation, competed in her first ever international competition, in the T42/43/44 100m and 200m events. She achieved a 3rd (200m) and 4th (100m) place finish, winning a bronze medal and smashing her personal best times in the process. In her 100m race, she was just 0.03 seconds behind third place finisher and Team GB’s number one female

sprinter, Stefanie Reid. Sophie’s prosthetist at PACE and former Paralympic sprinter Jamie Gillespie said: “What she has achieved in such a short period of time is terrific.” After the event, Sophie and her parents met Lauren, another young female amputee whom PACE has been supporting. Lauren underwent her amputation only recently, but as PACE’s Scott Richardson explained: “The girls are at either end of the rehabilitation spectrum, but Lauren and her family found it very beneficial to meet Sophie and her parents.”

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16&17

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UK launch announced for ‘alternative mobility solution’ Suit helps Paralympic ski racer JANE Sowerby, a 37-year-old Paralympic ski racer from Bedfordshire, was left paralysed from the waist down after a fall in 2003. Now she has walked for the first time in nine years using the Rewalk. Keen to regain independence after the accident, Jane, pictured above, began skiing in 2005, before embarking on a Paralympic ski racing career which saw her scoop several medals and join Team GB for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. In 2011, she approached Cyclone Technologies in a bid to improve her general health,

circulation and range of motion via the company’s specialist Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) cycling therapy. After working with Cyclone for around a year, Jane received a call from company founder, Stuart Dunne, who told her about Rewalk. After only four days of training, Jane could stand, ascend and descend stairs and walk indoors and outdoors on mown grass, ramps and up curbs. She said: “It’s such an amazing feeling to be standing for the first time in five years, and walking for the first time in nine years.”

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CYCLONE Technologies has announced the UK launch of the “first ‘personal’ alternative mobility solution to the wheelchair”, ReWalk-P. The ReWalk-P enables individuals with lower-limb disabilities such as Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) and Spina Bifida to stand, ascend and descend stairs and walk indoors and outdoors on mown grass, ramps and up kerbs. This can be done independently and on a daily basis. Invented by the Israeli entrepreneur, Dr. Amit Goffer, who became a quadriplegic in 1998, ReWalk provides individuals with user-initiated mobility through the integration of a light wearable brace support suit, a computer-based control system and motion sensors. By a shift in the wearer’s balance, sensors recognise a change in position and trigger the desired knee or hip movement to take a step forward and make ‘walking’ relatively easy for the user. Dave Hawkins, managing director of Cyclone Technologies, said: “As any wheelchair user knows, myself included, keeping fit is paramount to maintaining and controlling a good level of independence. By keeping users upright

on a daily basis, and exercising even paralysed limbs, the ReWalk enables users to do exactly that. “At the same time, it alleviates the numerous health problems associated with long-term wheelchair use, such as pressure sores and complications of the urinary, respiratory, cardiovascular and digestive systems, reducing healthcare costs and improving overall health.” The ReWalk-P is available when a user has begun ReWalk training at Cyclone’s purpose-built CyclonePlus rehabilitation and training facility in Ottringham, East Yorkshire, and when all parties are satisfied with the device and the individual’s ability to use it. Crutches are also required for users to maintain their balance when walking and standing. The move follows the launch of the ReWalk-I, currently available for training and therapy purposes within institutions such as a dedicated medical facility. The technology was recently used by jewellery designer Claire Lomas, who despite being paralysed from the chest down after an equestrian eventing accident, completed the 2012 London Marathon unaided.

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OT ‘vital’ to stroke recovery

Ottobock factory prepares for the Paralympics

Equipment in good hands EVERY athlete in the London 2012 Paralympic Games – the second largest sports events in the world – will have full technical back-up thanks to Ottobock Healthcare. The company, official technical service provider for the games, has sent around 15,000 spare parts to London as it prepares for its role servicing equipment for 4,200 athletes. In total, it will send 13.7 tonnes of equipment to the capital from its head office in Germany. Philip Yates, managing director for Ottobock Healthcare UK, said: “The team is very experienced and their

creativity and knowledge means no job is too challenging. Whether it is welding flag holders on to wheelchairs for the opening ceremony or mending a prosthetic knee joint, our team will be on hand to help. “As in Athens and Beijing, more than 2,000 repairs are expected to be made, requiring more than 10,000 hours of work.” In London, 80 prosthetists, orthotists and wheelchair technicians from 20 countries will make up the technical service team. There will be one main workshop in the Paralympic Village which begins operations a week

ahead of the opening ceremony. Athletes who need prostheses, wheelchairs, or orthoses to participate can have their devices checked and repaired by Ottobock experts before they compete. Nine other workshops at the various venues are also responsible for repairs during competition. The wheelchairs used for rugby and basketball are subjected to damaging impact-intense competition and welding is in high demand throughout the event. An additional mobile workshop is available for the hand bikers’ street race.

A SURVEY has found there is a need for more occupational therapy in stroke recovery. In the survey, The Stroke Association urged commissioners to use the expertise of allied health professionals (AHPs) to achieve greater care for people affected by stroke. Feedback indicated that people valued the expert skills of occupational therapy, which helped them get the most from life and in some cases exceed expectations about their future. Ninety-seven per cent of respondents stated that support to remain in their home, a core component of occupational therapy, was extremely important. People also highly valued home adaptations provided by occupational therapists. Julia Scott, chief executive, said: “We are concerned that this survey shows there are inconsistencies in occupational therapy provision across the UK. It is unacceptable that people are experiencing delays in getting occupational therapy and other support on discharge from hospital. We urge commissioners across health and social care to use the expertise of AHPs to achieve the best possible care for people affected by stroke.”

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NEWS

A teenager with muscular dystrophy is among torchbearers in the 24-hour Paralympic torch relay, starting at Stoke Mandeville on August 28. Helen Williams looks at the achievements of those living the Paralympic values.

Carrying the torch with courage Blazing a trail ...

ROBERT Taylor is 15 and has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which currently has no cure and causes his muscles to weaken over time. However, he has kayaked in Scotland, plays the guitar and has taken up archery.

Torchbearer Arun Patel set up the Polio Children charity which has raised over £1,000,000 and helped thousands of children.

Robert attends Acorns Children`s Hospice in the West Midlands, a charity offering a care network for children and young people who are not expected to reach adulthood. These young people can require specialist care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Alexandra Blunt is part of the youth advisory board of the National Deaf Children`s Society and has helped inform the charity’s strategic direction.

His torchbearer team was nominated through the Sainsbury’s public nomination campaign and includes Alexander Curtis who also attends Acorns, and Sue Curry, Kayleigh Hawkins and Nazmeen Bi who work there. Seb Coe, chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG), said of the torchbearers’ inspirational stories: “They have all demonstrated how they are living the Paralympic values of courage, determination, inspiration and equality.” One of the torchbearers, Mike Mackenzie, sustained spinal cord injuries in 1993 whilst working for an aid agency in Bosnia. He has helped raise £750,000 for spinal injury and blind charities. Mike is also chair of the Poppa Guttmann Trust, which celebrates Ludwig ‘Poppa’ Guttmann. In 1948, Dr Guttmann organised a wheelchair archery competition at Stoke Mandeville hospital for World War II soldiers with spinal cord injuries. Four years later, more sports were added and the international Paralympic Movement was born.

Acorns Hospice Team (Robert Taylor on the right)

based at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. WheelPower is the national organisation for wheelchair sport in the United Kingdom, and aims to help people with disabilities improve their quality of life. Fellow torchbearer Chris Channon MBE also competed in 1984 and won a Paralympic medal. Chris has since been a regular volunteer member of the Notts Police’s Disability Advisory Group and developed a system which is used by police forces to help those with spoken communication issues to contact the police.

Mike’s team, nominated through the BT public nomination campaign, has unveiled a life-sized cast-bronze statue of Dr Guttmann, sculpted by torchbearer Mark Jackson, which will stand at Stoke Mandeville Stadium during the games. Other torchbearers recently announced were nominated through the Lloyds TSB public nomination scheme and include two Paralympians from previous games. Martin McElhatton played wheelchair basketball for Great Britain in the 1984 games and is now chief executive of WheelPower, an organisation founded by Dr Guttmann and

Poppa Guttmann Celebration Team

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

As a judo coach for the last 15 years, Andrew Burt has taught disabled and able bodied children with behavioural problems and has also been actively involved in coaching the Welsh disabled team.

Paralympic Torch Relay dates 24 August 2012 – London Flame lighting event 25 August 2012 – Belfast Flame lighting event and Flame Festival 26 August 2012 – Edinburgh Flame lighting event and Flame Festival 27 August 2012 – Cardiff Flame lighting event and Flame Festival 28 August 2012– Stoke Mandeville Paralympic Flame Lighting ceremony to bring together all four Flames to create the Paralympic Flame and 24-hour relay begins 29 August 2012 – Paralympic Flame arrives at the stadium in time for the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games.

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Next year the Mobility Roadshow celebrates 30 years of bringing mobility technology and innovation to the public. Helen Williams reports on the 2012 show in Peterborough.

NEWS

Praise for roadshow product range The new Sirius Fiat ‘Future’ wheelchair passenger up front vehicle

PEOPLE are ‘future proofing’ their homes against ageing and disability. And now they are doing the same with mobility, according to Jacqui Jones, executive director of the charity Mobility Choice which organises the Mobility Roadshow. Jacqui said: “We saw more older people attending, planning ahead for when they need to review their motoring options and look at alternative or complementary options.” Visitors praised the product range and the chance to compare different brands on one site. One said: “I had

felt isolated, now I don’t feel so alone and I am confident that there is much to help me be more independent.” The roadshow opened in buoyant mood, although it was one of this summer’s worst wet and windy days. Despite the current economic climate, over 180 exhibitors attended with more than 40 making their debut. Around 60 adapted or converted vehicles were on the test drive track and new products ranged from the latest robotic innovations to gadgets for everyday living.

Stair-climbing wheelchair

Visitors see new ideas from all over the world VISITORS could see wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) in the motoring arena as well as new hoists, restraint systems, accelerating and seating systems. From China came the Maximus, a new stair and ramp-climbing fourwheel-drive power wheelchair that revisits gyroscope technology. Also popular was a product from Australia that converts existing sliding patio doors into automatic doors. On view were simple gadgets such as Medi-popper for easy access to blister-packaged pills to hi-tech exoskeleton ‘bionic’ walking systems like ReWalk. Three of the first UK

paraplegics to be trained in ReWalk also shared their aspirations for the future. In the new Cyclone Fitness Zone visitors tried out high tech rehabilitation and therapy equipment, including FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation) equipment for use at home. Winning most visitor votes on the ‘Cool Wall’ was Safesip, a silicon cover that stretches over glasses of many shapes and sizes to prevent spillage, and Wheelchair Grippers – silicone grips that cover the push rim of a manual wheelchair to give the user more grip.

Julie Fernandez tries the Trekinetic

More ‘fun and colour’ ... ACTRESS and disability rights campaigner Julie Fernandez opened the roadshow. Julie, who has brittle bone disease, is known for playing ‘Brenda’ in BBC sitcom The Office. She said: “I’m pleased to see the emphasis on improving design, ‘looks’ and technological investment in products helping people remain independently mobile for as long as possible – something I am passionate about.” She called for more fun and colour in low cost wheelchair accessories like mobile phone or drink holders, saying they should be available in

easily-accessible mainstream retail outlets. Paralympian and presenter Ade Adepitan and members of the Tour de Forces team also attended. They talked about their challenge to run, cycle and hand cycle 3,000 miles around the coastline of Britain, raising money for four forces charities. During the show, disabled motorsport marshal Steve Tarrant smashed the record for the longest distance travelled on a mobility scooter in 24 hours, despite incessant rain and windy conditions.

The Mobility Roadshow 2013 will be held at the Telford International Centre on June 27, 28 and 29 20

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Tennis ace Esther is going for fourth gold WHEELCHAIR tennis ace Esther Vergeer – who has shared coaching with Roger Federer – is warming up to win her fourth Paralympic gold. Oscar Pistorius in action.

Ossur salute Oscar’s Olympic first OSSUR has saluted Oscar Pistorius for becoming the first amputee sprinter selected to compete in the Olympics. Oscar was chosen to run in the individual men’s 400m and 4x400m relay on behalf of Team South Africa. Jon Sigurdsson, president and CEO of Össur, said: “With this extraordinary accomplishment, Oscar Pistorius has achieved what no other lower-limb amputee has ever done, and helped make Össur’s Flex-Foot Cheetah a household name. As the ‘Blade Runner’, he is one of the most recognised and influential amputees

in the world, embodying what it means to live life without limitations.” Jon added: “We are inspired by all he has accomplished, and humbled that he chooses to wear Össur prostheses both on and off the track. We wish Oscar continued success as he claims his place in the pantheon of athletic greatness and enters the world stage of athletic competition.” Oscar, who will also compete at the Paralympics, was named in a 13strong group of athletes by the South African Sports Confederation

and Olympic Committee that completes their team for London 2012. Tweeting after receiving the news, he said: “Today is really one of the happiest days of my life! Will be in London 2012 for both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Thank you to everyone that has made me the athlete I am. God, family and friends, my competitors and supporters! You have all had a hand!” Oscar was banned from competing alongside able-bodied athletes just before the 2008 Olympics – a ruling he later had overturned.

NEWS

Vergeer competed in a test event at Eton Manor, the only venue built specifically for the Paralympics, in advance of the wheelchair tennis competition starting on September 1. She last experienced singles defeat in January 2003 and since then has won 457 matches. Vergeer was left paralysed after surgery on her spinal cord when she was eight.

If you have got a story for us then please email helenw@scriptmedia.co.uk or ring Helen Williams on 01226 734694

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NEWS

Catapult foot first for American sportsman AMERICAN sportsman Richard Browne will be the first athlete to use Freedom Innovations’ Catapult Running Foot at the London 2012 Paralympics. Browne, pictured right, of Jackson, Mississippi, was nominated to the US Paralympic Track & Field Team and is due to compete in the 100-metre dash and the high jump. A below-the-knee amputee due to an accident in 2009, he attributes much of his success to supporters including his family, coach, sponsor Freedom Innovations and prosthetist Brett Lee of ProCare Prosthetics in Jackson. As the first sprinter in the world to train with the Catapult Running Foot, Browne believes the technology provides him with unique benefits. He said: “The design provides up to 30% more energy return and directs that energy in a more forward motion, while allowing me the

flexibility to make alignment and stiffness adjustments as I go." Freedom Innovations, a developer of lower-limb prosthetic medical devices distributed in 41 countries, offers brands including the Plie 2.0 MPC Knee and the Renegade Prosthetic Foot.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

Projects win funding from ‘assisted living’ programme A HEALTH project called The Feelgood Factory in Liverpool is among those to win funding from the UK’s ‘delivering assisted living lifestyles at scale’ or ‘dallas’ programme. The Technology Strategy Board (TSB) announced the projects under the programme which explores ways of using innovative products, systems and services to create more independent lifestyles. The target is to help around 170,000 people by summer 2015. Dallas tasks four consortia with running this programme and testing it with UK communities. The consortia has been awarded £25m of government money, to which they have added their own financial contributions, making a total investment of some £37m. TSB has developed the programme with joint funding from the National Institute for Health Research and the Scottish Government. The projects to receive funding are: i-Focus – a nationwide programme offering people a range of products and services to help them feel more comfortable

in their homes. For example, the Warm Neighbourhoods scheme, which uses online and mobile technologies to enhance and organise informal care networks. Year Zero – an online application that empowers individuals to actively manage their health information from cradle to grave. The tools include a digital version of the paper-based Red Book that is given to all new parents to record their child’s health, Family Health Tree – to help people plot their family’s health genealogy – and Rally Round, a social networking and planning tool to connect family, friends, carers and healthcare professionals. The Feelgood Factory – encourages people living in Liverpool to plan for their future in order to better manage their health and social care needs, supported by Life Enhancing Technologies (LETs). Living It Up – focuses on developing innovative solutions that will enable people in communities across Scotland to live happy, healthy and safe lives. The Hidden Talents element also encourages people to identify their talents and share them with other members of the community.

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Aimee back home New range created after quadruple amputation By Helen Williams A STUDENT who contracted a flesh-eating infection resulting in quadruple amputation has returned home from hospital. Aimee Copeland, 24, of Georgia in the US, lost her left leg, right foot and hands after contracting necrotizing fasciitis following a zip line accident. She spent nearly two months battling the rare infection, but, incredibly, could feed herself and brush her teeth after just four days of rehabilitation. Her father Andy Copeland and his wife Donna spoke to the Today show about their daughter's progress and her hope to walk again by her graduation. In his blog called 59 Days Andy revealed how much the family will need for Aimee's prosthetic limbs and their battle with the insurance company to extend coverage of their current

medical plan. Andy said: “We have come to realize that our first estimate of $150,000 for prosthetics may have been a conservative one. “Aimee will require a set of body-powered limbs and a set of myo-electric limbs. “She will also need ongoing fittings for the ever-changing condition of her amputated limbs, which is required for continued comfort.” He has asked his insurance company to extend the coverage of prosthetics beyond the sum of $50,000 that is allowed under the family’s medical plan. Aimee was released from hospital after six weeks of recovery, at the beginning of which the doctors warned that she would likely die. She returns home after a spell of intense rehabilitation to a house completely redesigned to aid her recovery.

OTTOBOCK Healthcare worked closely with amputees to create a new range of carbon fibre prosthetic feet. The Triton family of products meets the demands of an active lifestyle and offers comfort and stability under heavy loads. Springs within the feet dampen load impact and the shortening of the heel lever allows maximum control when bending the knee for greater confidence and safety. A high-performance polymer spring system throughout the range links the forefoot and heel, and stores energy during heel strike. Gradual release of this energy allows for a more natural roll-over movement of the foot. The base spring contained within Triton feet has been specially formed and is split at the forefoot section, so

effective foot length reaches the big toe. This allows the wearer to perform powerful transitions to the swing phase and to walk at variable speeds more comfortably. Roll-over and heel characteristics can be adapted and customised to individual needs. The Triton family of products consists of three prosthetic foot solutions, with a range of options from a slim footshell to increased vertical shock absorption.

NEWS

TalarMade partners with Baltic Orthoservice TALARMADE has announced a partnership with Baltic Orthoservice as UK distributor for the EasyWalk® ankle foot orthosis (AFO) range. Based in Lithuania, Baltic Orthoservice, more commonly known by the brand name Ortho Baltic, has been manufacturing high quality orthopaedic devices in Europe since 2001. The EasyWalk® AFO range is a new generation in prefabricated lightweight AFOs. Manufactured using carbon fibre, composite materials and prepreg

technology, the products have been designed by orthotics and physical therapy practitioners to help in effectively treating drop foot and ankle instability. There are four products within the EasyWalk range: EasyWalk Advance, Eco Advance, Fixation and Stability. TalarMade MD Ian Leddy is delighted to be able to offer the range to the UK market. He said: “These are state-of-theart, high-quality products which are a perfect complement to our existing product range.”

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sponsors podiatry

PODIATRY

Health service criticised over footwear failure By Helen Williams

Cautery of skin lesions and verrucae was among subjects at this year’s Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists’ conference. The event took place at the Conference and Exhibition Centre in Southport and featured four workshops and four lectures, all by eminent speakers. They included cautery of troublesome skin lesions and verrucae using hyfrecators, a padding and strapping workshop, and a demonstration on the practical application of nail surgery and use of local anaesthesias. The president’s reception was sponsored by podiatry product specialists Canonbury Healthcare.

Laser treatment has no side-effects LASER company Cynosure UK is introducing the PinPointe FootLaser – a light-based device for the treatment of onychomycosis, better known as toenail fungus.

causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin.

The condition affects one in every 100 people in the UK and an estimated 10% of the population worldwide.

Alternatives include a course of oral drugs prescribed by a GP, or topical ointments, which are only 30-50% effective, and often have painful side effects.

It alters the look of nails, making them unsightly, and can be painful if the infection spreads, causing problems when walking. PinPointe FootLaser uses laser light to kill the fungus that lives in and under the nail without

Treatment typically takes 20 minutes, there are no side effects and just two to three sessions are needed.

In a 12-month study conducted on more than 250 patients, more than 70% experienced continuous improvement, and were fungus-free after a single treatment.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

A NEW report has criticised the health service for its “longstanding failure” to provide arthritis patients with appropriate footwear. Without good quality therapeutic footwear, people with rheumatoid arthritis are often left unable to walk, and the condition of their feet degenerates. The research – from UK experts in foot health and the medical research charity, Arthritis Research UK – showed widespread dissatisfaction with all types of therapeutic footwear. Patients raised concerns around poor fit, appearance, weight of shoe and comfort. Rheumatoid arthritis affects nearly half a million people in the UK. It is a chronic, disabling condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints. As the disease progresses, feet become more damaged and deformed. Nine out of ten rheumatoid arthritis patients complain of foot pain, with seven out of ten having difficulty walking and a further 80% reporting problems with their footwear. Arthritis Research UK medical director Professor Alan Silman said: “The right therapeutic footwear can make the difference between someone being able to walk or not. “For a relatively low cost, we can give people their independence and mobility. “If we do not improve the current

system, we will collectively fail people with rheumatoid arthritis, causing them greater long-term problems, as well as increasing the cost to the NHS.” The report made a series of observations and recommendations for the current service: Patients reported limited access to orthotist or podiatry services; referral pathways were unclear and subject to frequent delays. Where referrals were made to external agencies, there was insufficient communication between teams. 62% of people with rheumatoid arthritis felt they had received an inadequate assessment of their needs. 89% of service users had problems with the choice and style of footwear. 90% were embarrassed about their appearance and felt that they had to hide their shoes from other people. The report said health care professionals routinely failed to understand the needs of patients, resulting in shoes being made that people would not wear which could lead to further deterioration and greater health problems. The charity is calling for improved training of podiatrists, orthotists and primary care specialists, to ensure effective provision of appropriately designed footwear to meet the needs of people with rheumatoid arthritis.

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New sock could help cut number of amputations among diabetes patients A NEW sock that could help reduce the number of amputations on people with diabetes is being launched in the UK. Sufferers often encounter problems with their feet as reduced sensation means they are unaware of the development of serious skin conditions such as ulcers and gangrene. These conditions lead to amputations, and currently 70 a week are being carried out on people with diabetes. The PROTECT iT sock, developed in Switzerland, acts as a ‘second skin’, eliminating friction and drawing away moisture to combat bacteria. It has received endorsement from the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. Vice chairman Michael O’Neill said: “The sock provides the protection needed by diabetics to prevent the skin conditions which can cause serious infections – the infections that lead to amputations.”

The socks provide protection around the ball of the foot, heel and the toes and are not too tight around the ankle, so do not cause a problem with swelling. Diabetes UK said: “Disease of the foot remains a major threat to people with diabetes. People with diabetes are more likely to be admitted to hospital with a foot ulcer than anything else. The right socks help keep feet healthy, so choice of footwear is very important. Diabetes sufferers should avoid socks with wrinkles, prominent seams or elastic tops that restrict the circulation.” Intelligent Texture worked with medical specialists, textile engineers and diabetics to develop the sock – which features all the requirements set out by leading diabetes organisations.

Government urged to protect title ‘surgeon’ A ROW has broken out involving the job title ‘podiatric surgeon.’ The Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) is calling on the government to legally protect the title ‘surgeon’ and wants only those with a medical degree and surgical training to be able to use it. Those who the RCS feels should not use the title include podiatric surgeons, who do not complete medical degrees but are trained in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of the foot. However, a spokesman for the Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, which represents podiatric surgeons, defended the use of the title. He said: "Podiatric surgeons are specialist foot surgeons who have trained exclusively for up to 12 years in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of the foot and

associated structures.” He added that they develop "highly skilled and meticulous surgical techniques", and had to undergo six years of podiatric medicine training before completing a masters in podiatric surgery in order to qualify for the title. The Department of Health fully supports podiatrists who have undergone the appropriate training performing surgery of the foot and ankle. It said: "These professionals are regulated by the Health Professions Council (HPC) to ensure that they deliver high quality care for patients." Another group the RCS feels should not use the title surgeon are ‘aesthetic surgeons’, who may not have a medical degree or undertaken specialist training.

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KIDS

sponsors Kids

Baby is fitted with prosthetic legs ... MENINGITIS baby Louie Jenkins has been fitted with prosthetic legs a month before his first birthday. Louie, of Colne in Lancashire, had both legs amputated from below the knee after contracting the potentially deadly disease in January. He was given the legs at a specialist prosthetics unit at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds. He also lost all the fingers on his left hand and the tips of his fingers on his right hand. His parents, Julie and Warren, were thrilled that he would be able to start learning to walk. Julie said: “It was weird looking at the legs and thinking Louie will learn to walk with them on. We were so nervous before he got them. We were worried that he may not like them or feel uncomfortable.” But when Louie had the legs put on, he grabbed his shoes and smiled. Julie said: “We were so pleased. He was so comfortable in them that he fell asleep wearing them in the car on the way home. “We have been told to let him lead how much time he wants to spend wearing the legs. If he wants to wear them for a little as half an hour a day we will let him.” Louie’s family have set up the Little LAMB (Louie’s Amazing Meningitis Battle) Appeal to help buy equipment needed to support him as he grows. They aim to be able to have enough money to buy specialist prosthetic legs at the cost of £7,000 per leg by the time he wants to take part in sports.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

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Warning signs of child eye cancer to be issued official information on the signs of the disease to alert parents.

By Helen Williams EVERY new parent in the UK will soon be told about the subtle warning signs of the deadly eye cancer retinoblastoma, after a campaign by a children's cancer charity. The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust conducted a year-long campaign calling for Department of Health approved publications for parents on the aggressive condition. Backed by Damian Hinds MP, parenting website Mumsnet and optician Vision Express, the campaign gathered thousands of signatures using Twitter and Facebook. Retinoblastoma generally affects eyes of children from birth to six years old. A tumour can develop as cells mutate within the eye or eyes during rapid growth periods in the early years. The disease is rare, with 40-50 cases diagnosed in the UK each year, but it can be life-threatening. Now the warning signs of the condition will be included in

Damian Hinds, MP for East Hampshire, lobbied ministers on behalf of constituent Katy Bishop, who spearheaded the campaign after diagnosis of her baby son, Owen, was delayed by several months. Katy and Owen

each new copy of the Personal Child Health Record (known as the red book or PCHR), distributed to every parent in the UK on the birth of their child. The charity said parents will now have a fighting chance of seeking medical help for their child in time to save their sight and eyes. Currently the majority of children with the condition will have to lose an eye, and occasionally both, in order to save their life. This is often because diagnosis comes too late for alternative treatments. Until now there has been no

Katy, from Petersfield, Hampshire, said: "If we'd have known that a glow in his eyes in a photograph could be something to be concerned about we would definitely have pushed for Owen to have been seen sooner.” Owen was finally diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma, meaning he had cancerous tumours in both eyes, and started chemotherapy immediately. He is now 12 months post chemo and nearly three years old. His tumours started growing again at month four, despite the chemo, and he returns every six weeks for further examinations.

Conference aimed at health professionals working with children A CONFERENCE is taking place in Surrey for nursing, medical and allied health professionals working with children and young people with disorders of consciousness. The Children’s Trust in Tadworth hosts the event on October 18 for those working with youngsters in a minimally conscious or vegetative state. Keynote speakers are: Dr Caroline Schnakers, University of Liege, Belgium, Dr Judith Allanson, Evelyn Community Head Injury Service, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, and Dr Chris Kidson, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Scotland. Presentations and workshops during the event will include: Recognising disorders of consciousness and understanding the implications Care and therapeutic interventions Structuring a child/young person’s day Interpreting behavioural responses Pain and nociception Using the nociception coma scale to recognise and chart pain responses Legal and ethical implications of withholding or withdrawing medical treatment Combining palliative and rehabilitative approaches The conference costs £110 per person including refreshments and lunch. For further information, email contactus@thechildrenstrust.org.uk or call 01737 365865.

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Play expert seeks special school for demonstration site PLAY expert Sutcliffe Play has launched a new inclusive ballcourt.

ballcourt means it can be tailored to suit any location, even a sloping site.

The company consulted with Dutch sports specialist Nijha and two special schools in Yorkshire, Highfield Special School and Oakfield Park Special School, to launch the modular ballcourt that features six different games courts.

George McBride, head of PE at Highfield Special School, said about the new ballcourt: “We are very keen on the small, easily defined cross courts as very often we work with a small number of children in a group.”

Viv Jebson, managing director at Sutcliffe Play, said: “Our standard ballcourt has been a resounding success so we used this as a starting point and looked at ways to adapt it to make it more inclusive and accessible for users of all abilities to play side by side.”

Among the features of the new inclusive ballcourt are a soft surface – EDPM wetpour (rubberised) with strong line markings and colour contrasts to define mini courts, and a wheelchair race track.

The new ballcourt has wider access points, smaller side courts for small group work and lowered side basketball goals for easy reach from wheelchairs. Visual impairment has also been considered in the design with the addition of contrast colours in the goal backs. This has all been combined with Sutcliffe Play’s standard ballcourt features including durability, flexible heights, unique noise reduction and slope adjustment. The modular construction of the

The design of the new ballcourt was led by Sutcliffe Play’s design director, Dave Brady, who started his career designing wheelchairs, which fostered his passion for inclusivity. Sutcliffe Play is looking for a special school to become a demo site for the new inclusive ballcourt. The school will be able to purchase the ballcourt at a discounted price in return for providing feedback and allowing a small number of other schools and local authorities to visit. For more details phone Tom Matthews 07825 059723 or email Tom@sutcliffeplay.co.uk

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

Dion Harrison on the AlterG at the Triathlon Show.

Injured footballers use ‘anti-gravity’ treadmill INJURED athletes including premiership footballers are using an ‘anti-gravity’ treadmill developed in the US by NASA. The AlterG treadmill is the only device of its kind in the world that uses differential air pressure to ‘un-weight’ up to 80 per cent of a person’s body weight, allowing for stable support in rehabilitating from injury. AlterG Europe has built up a reputation in the sports, healthcare and medical markets, selling treadmills into 16 out of the 20 UK Premiership football clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool.

Dion Harrison, 2008 amateur long distance world triathlon champion, demonstrated AlterG's anti-gravity at the Triathlon Show in Surrey earlier this year. Andrew Caudell, general manager for AlterG Europe, said: “The AlterG is great for anyone who wants to reduce impact during exercise or have a smooth rehabilitation after surgery or injury, and is preferred and used by leading medical professionals and the world's best athletes and teams.”

It has also supplied clubs like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich and several premiership rugby clubs.

The treadmill enables injured athletes to run and walk without bearing their entire weight, reducing the impact on the body to optimize rehabilitation and physical therapy outcomes.

In the US, the treadmills are used by Olympic distance runners, US athletic programmes for the National Football League, collegiate and university sports programmes and the US Olympic Training Centre.

AlterG’s other UK customers include health and leisure club operators, private hospital groups, military rehabilitation units, sport physiotherapists, personal trainers and sports coaches.

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Chaneco extends spinal brace range ACCORDING to The National Osteoporosis Society, almost three million people in the UK have osteoporosis. The charity has recently been the focus of the BBC’s monthly television appeal – Lifeline – with Craig Revel Horwood making an appeal for donations. As the condition is affecting more and more people, Chaneco was pleased to extend its range of spinal bracing that helps to support patients with degenerative

disorders such as osteoporosis. Only available from Chaneco, the Orthoservice Spinal Plus is an ultralight thoracolumbar brace, with an adjustable internal structure constructed from radiotransparent aluminium alloy. Customer feedback has highlighted how well suited the spinal brace is to elderly or frail patients, being only 528g in weight, with an extremely low profile and having features such as self-directing fastening and padded shoulders.

Once fitted properly by a technician, it is easy for patients to put on and take off themselves, even in cases of limited mobility - not a common feature of most spinal braces. Available in sizes X-Small to Large, the Spinal Plus can also be used as a conservative treatment for juvenile osteochondrosis, as well as a general post-surgical support. Delivered next day before 12 noon as standard, the Spinal Plus is fast becoming one of Chaneco’s most popular products.

INDUSTRY NEWS

New features make show bigger and better Knee brace enhances swimmer’s training CHAMPION German swimmer Yannick Lebherz has commended medi UK’s M.4 X-lock knee brace after qualifying for the Olympic Games following surgery to the meniscus (in the knee). The brace allowed the 23-year-old – a champion over the 400-metre medley relay and the 200-metre backstroke – to quickly get back into training after the operation. Late last year, Yannick incurred a lateral meniscus tear in his right knee during athletic training. The knee broke away to the side when he wanted to turn quickly during weight training. But thanks to the M.4 Xlock he was able to get back in the water just two weeks after surgery. Yannick said he would have been out for longer if he had not used the lock. He added: “Before then, I was not aware of a brace with which I could work so well in the water. Putting it on and taking it off always went fairly quickly. But actually, I had the M.4 X-lock on all the time. Day and night.” The first week, the brace was fully locked. Then it was set to 30 degrees of bending, another week later to 60 degrees of bending, and finally to 90 degrees.

ORGANISERS of Naidex South at London ExCel from October 17-18 are making the show bigger and better – with new features like a ‘Naidex Village’ and a Sports Zone. The Naidex Village will provide an area where those offering smaller products can take credit card sales, while the Sports Zone offers a niche for exhibitors involved in sports and rehab. This area is intended to encourage disabled visitors to become more involved in sport and will focus on the Paralympics legacy. This year’s Naidex South also sees the

launch of an exclusive VIP Day for networking and buying, with a drinks evening held directly after the show on the first day and a Trade Lounge for meetings and networking throughout. Running alongside Naidex South at ExCeL is a new event, Naidex Care, for care home owners, managers and care providers. Seminars will run throughout the two-day event and visitors can expect to hear from influential speakers such as Professor Alistair Burns, national clinical director for Dementia Care at the

New therapy from Ottobock MINOR restrictions in everyday life make it difficult to cope with an illness. For example, many people who have had a stroke can no longer lift their foot properly – this is called dorsiflexor weakness, or ‘drop foot,’ and is caused by central nervous system damage. Walking with drop foot requires full concentration and any small obstacles could mean a stumble, a frustrating reminder of an illness in every step. As a new therapy developed by Ottobock, ActiGait® is a partially implantable medical device for functional electrical stimulation (FES). It uses the principle that muscles can be activated by electrical impulses to make life easier for people with dorsiflexor weakness. The system is easy to operate via an implant inserted into the thigh and connected to the common peroneal nerve during a surgical procedure; other

components are external and easy to wear. When the foot is raised, a wireless heel switch detects the lift and triggers the control unit to stimulate. The stimulus is transmitted to the implant by the antenna. The implanted electrode, when stimulated, activates the muscles of the lower leg to properly lift the foot and toes during walking. The result is a smoother, faster and safer gait and the tip of the foot no longer gets caught as easily, reducing the risk of falling. ActiGait® is an important step forward for many affected by drop foot and one less obstacle on the way to a more normal life.

Collar set to revolutionise the market place BEAGLE Orthopaedic has introduced the Aspen Vista 464 TLSO as a follow up to the Aspen Vista Collar – the first universally sized collar to revolutionise the market place. The Vista 464 delivers an all-in-one system that offers patients support from S1 – T8, providing a versatile system that accommodates the appropriate motion restriction throughout the healing process. The Vista 464 was commended throughout testing on its ease of application – especially to usually non compliant patients – and the advantage of the modularity.

The Sure Slot System comfortably fits waists from 26”–60” without compromising the effectiveness of the brace. The height adjustment technology means that just one TLSO fits patients ranging from 4ft 8in – 6ft 8in. Finally, the Vista 464 offers three styles of strap configurations, which are easy to set up, giving plenty of flexibility depending on individual patient needs. All this can be done without any tools, which makes this the most versatile and easy to use TLSO brace available. It also represents a cost saving, in that this versatility means stock holding is a thing of the past.

Department of Health. Prof Burns will chair a debate on the future of dementia care, while Sarah Pickup, president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, will address what the care sector must do to cope with the nation’s ageing demographic. Naidex South has invested heavily in research, namely an in-depth report produced by Years Ahead. The aim is to produce a comprehensive overview of the market so that Naidex South can identify needs and adapt in a way beneficial to exhibitors.

Range launched TALARMADE has launched Neurotec – a range of innovative neurological orthoses designed by orthotics and physical therapy practitioners. The orthoses help in effectively treating contractures and postural deformities, and the range has been designed to treat patients who suffer from cerebal palsy, CVA (stroke), multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain/ spinal cord injury, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. These patients have often lost range of motion, resulting from adaptive tissue shortening due to immobility compounded by altered and varying muscle tone. Unlike orthopaedic contractures, these patients rarely present with adhesions which require aggressive stretching to restore full range. This kind of treatment could result in unnecessary pain and potential injury, and may actually stimulate the stretch reflex causing the affected area to pull even further into flexion. The rationale behind Neurotec is to provide comfortable, well-padded orthoses, which provide a low load progressive stretch to the affected area to gradually improve range of motion and reduce underlying tone. These devices allow a limited amount of flexion and can adapt with the patient during high tone episodes, returning via a spring back effect to their original position once the episode has passed. The range incorporates Outlast® Technology, originally developed for NASA. Products using this material technology are able to continually regulate the skin’s microclimate. As the skin warms, heat is absorbed and as it cools, heat is released, optimising patient comfort levels. Ian Leddy, TalarMade MD, said Neurotec offered advantages in comfort and compliance, combined with postural improvements. He said: “The benefits of improved respiration, circulation and pressure reduction contribute greatly to improved physical and emotional wellbeing.” ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

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BEAGLE EXPANDS PORTFOLIO

FLEX-FOOT CHEETAH®

BEAGLE Orthopaedic custom fabrication department has added another product to its growing portfolio. The ‘Torticollis Orthosis’ is designed to offer patients needing such a brace a long-term, comfortable solution to integrate into their daily life. The orthosis is constructed from thermoformable plastics. Depending on expected function, the shoulder and head components are linked using an innovative hinge. This comprises multidirectional adjustment in the flexion/extension plane, rotational adjustment to ensure optimal stabilisation when correction is applied to the joint, and also allows the head component to be raised. The orthosis is secured with a circumferential strap with ultra low profile buckle. Optional fastenings can be applied at supply to control the head.

THE Flex-Foot Cheetah is a carbon fibre prosthetic foot designed for amputees who participate in high impact sports like running and jumping. It stores and releases energy produced when the user is running. On impact it compresses and absorbs high level loads that would otherwise be taken by the runners’ lower limb joints. It then returns back to its original shape, effectively propelling the runner forwards. Unlike a normal prosthetic foot the Cheetah has no heel component.This ensures that the prosthetic foot’s reaction accurately mimics that of an able-bodied runner. A number of configurations are available to suit individual need. The Cheetah is the favoured prosthetic foot for amputees ranging from recreational runners to medal winning Paralympians.The Flex-Foot Cheetah is used by an increasing number of amputees keen to engage in sport. It has been used to break many sporting world records such as the new T44 100m record of 10.85s which was set in Indianapolis earlier this year. For further information, contact Paul Jamieson on 07788 726511.

Enquiries: Contact 01254 268788 for further details.

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE

GENU AREXA – INNOVATION IN DETAIL

WHAT is BioniCare? – It is a nonsurgical alternative treatment for uni, bi and tri-compartmental knee osteoarthritis. It reduces the pain and symptoms associated with this condition. By simply wearing a knee brace in conjunction with a (patented) electrical impulse system, BioniCare provides a clinically proven and cost effective alternative to knee surgery without any of the associated risks. Now available in the UK, the BioniCare knee system has been used on over 80,000 patients in the USA with outstanding life changing results.

THESE days we put a lot of value on good design and perfect function and this was our guide in developing the Genu Arexa.We wanted to show that rehabilitation devices can be just as visually appealing as they are effective.The Genu Arexa fits the knee like a glove thanks to autoadaptive wings, the innovative Click 2 Go system and smart padding solutions. So, for those who are suffering from ACL/PCL ligament ruptures, collateral ligament injuries or following capsular ligament surgery this fusion of function and design means they will get the best rehabilitation possible.

For more information, please visit the website www.bionicareuk.com, contact the customer service team, call 0121 475 1101 or email info@bionicareuk.com.

Enquiries: For more information, contact customer services on 0845 600 7664, speak to your local representative, or visit www.ottobock.co.uk

THE ADVANCE OF SKINGUARD® TECHNOLOGY

INTRODUCING THE DYNAPRO™ TORTICOLLIS ORTHOSIS

SKINGUARD® Technology protects the product and also the skin which comes into contact with the product against a broad range of microorganisms. It reduces the formation of odours and discolouration, extends the lifespan of the products, resulting in healthier skin and greater comfort for the wearer. Various anti-bacterial substances based on different active principles are used. In addition to the 6Y75 Transtibial and 6Y85 Transfemoral SkinGuard® Technology SIL Liner, Ottobock is now able to offer the SkinGuard® Technology also with our 6Y522/6Y523 Simplicity® Tapered PUR and 6Y512 Anatomic 3D PUR Liner. Enquiries: For more information contact customer services on 0845 600 7664, speak to your local representative or visit www.ottobock.co.uk

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

THE DynaPro™ Torticollis Orthosis is the latest addition to the OCSI range of stock orthoses distributed by Trulife – available for next day delivery from their head office in Sheffield. Designed to treat lateral flexion of the head and neck, this new orthosis features a ‘Bend to Fit’ shoulder cuff which allows for quick and easy customisation to allow for restorative torticollis therapy. In addition, the semi-rigid heat moldable upright with ‘flex’ technology allows for a gentle stretch to reverse tissue shortening or manage lateral cervical flexion spasticity. Using the DynaPro™ Torticollis Orthosis can significantly improve functional alignment of the head and neck facilitating improved vision, swallowing and performance of ADL’s. Enquiries: For further information contact Trulife on 0114 261 8100 or email info@trulife.co.uk

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