INNOVATION FOR INDEPENDENCE
ISSUE 113 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017 £6.95
Physio phone app trialled at Kent hospital
A NEW smartphone app described by the inventor as ‘a physiotherapist in your living room’ is being trialled at a Kent hospital.
The app allows a physio to prescribe a series of exercises and then chart your progress as your phone relays your workout data back to their computer. By a remarkable coincidence the consultant surgeon behind the idea is also one of the first to be putting it to the test after he fell off his bicycle and broke his elbow! Professor Rahul Kanegaonkar, an ENT consultant surgeon at Spire Alexandra Hospital in Chatham, designed the app when he discovered how many patients were failing to do there full physio programme. He said: “I was quite surprised when I heard how many patients were just not completing their physio courses but, after giving it some thought, I could see many reasons why this might happen. “For a start, once you leave the physio ‘you’re on your own’! There’s no-one checking up on you when you get home and, to put it bluntly, it’s easy to cheat! “With this app it’s almost like taking the
physiotherapist home with you! Once you have strapped your smartphone to your arm, I use a jogging pouch, then all your exercises can be seen and analysed. Your physio will be able to keep an eye on the work you are doing and the beauty of this app is that they can change your exercises whenever they think it necessary. “This means you reach your recovery target quicker but also it takes away the need for regular visits to your physiotherapist saving you time and travel costs.” Orthopaedic surgeon Professor Amit Tolat, who treated Prof Kanegaonkar’s broken elbow, is now helping to monitor the trials. He added: “Early results are promising and I feel it could be a major boost to the physiotherapy department at Spire Alexandra and, indeed, many other hospitals”. Physiotherapist Fatimah Parkar added: “It is amazing how I can actually see his progress in graphs from week one to week three. “I can also keep track of his progress and see where improvements or changes are required. It also ensures that I can see that he is also doing all of his exercises – and doing them correctly.”
Digital glasses which assist people who have lost the use of their arms and a wheelchair that goes up and down steps have been crowned the winners of a “Dragons’ Den” style design competition. The Blackwood Design Awards – which discover and champion new and innovative ideas to improve the lives of those with physical or learning disabilities– recently took place at the Dundee Contemporary Arts centre, and saw nine shortlisted inventors pitch for the top spot. Full story on page 4
New physio scheme puts patients at the centre of their own care SALFORD Royal is piloting a new scheme that allows patients to selfrefer for physio for musculoskeletal complaints without having to go to their GP.
Dominic Musgrave Group Production Editor Email: dm@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734407 Olivia Taylor Reporter Email: ot@scriptmedia.co.uk Sales Carole Rice Product Manager Email: cr@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734412 Fax: 01226 734478
In an effort to empower patients to make their own choices about their care, and to reduce the amount of time GPs spend with MSK patents, this collaborative project – funded by Salford CCG, supported by Haelo – will see patients being able to contact the physio service directly to make an appointment.
Gaby Ford, physiotherapist and clinical lead for the self-referral project, said: “This is about putting the patient at the centre of their care and supporting them to self-manage their conditions. “Patients who choose to self-refer may find they are getting a physio
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Editorial Judith Halkerston Group Editor Email: jh@scriptmedia.co.uk
Nationally, up to 30 per cent of GP consultations are taken up with patients who need referral to a physiotherapist for pain that affects the muscles, ligaments and tendons, and bones.
This new route in to the service is called go2physio.
Contacts
Tony Barry Sales and Marketing Director Email: tb@scriptmedia.co.uk Circulation circulation@scriptmedia.co.uk 24 hour hotline: 01226 734695
Louise Jefferson, specialist physiotherapist, Lucy Turner, specialist physiotherapist, Daniel Windsor, specialist physiotherapist, Alex Hardern, highly specialised physiotherapist and Gaby Ford, physiotherapist and clinical lead for the self-referral project.
appointment quicker because they are not having to wait for a GP appointment.” The pilot began recently at Sorrell Bank Group Practice, Langworthy Medical Practice and Ordsall Health. Patients will be able to self-refer in
Design/Production Stewart Holt Studio Manager Email: sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Ben Thornley Graphic Designer Email: bt@scriptmedia.co.uk
a number of different ways over the next few months. If the project proves to be successful, it will be rolled out across the city. Patients can still opt to be seen by their GP rather than self-refer if they prefer.
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ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017
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Ground-breaking designs for people with disabilities win top accolades NEWS
By Dominic Musgrave
a commercial partner and see it transform the mobility and function of people with severe disabilities, and we’re very grateful to now have Blackwood’s advice and guidance.”
DIGITAL glasses which assist people who have lost the use of their arms and a wheelchair that goes up and down steps have been crowned the winners of a “Dragons’ Den” style design competition.
Designer Mehmet Turker entered pioneering product GlassOuse all the way from China.
The Blackwood Design Awards – which discover and champion new and innovative ideas to improve the lives of those with physical or learning disabilities – recently took place at the Dundee Contemporary Arts centre, and saw nine shortlisted inventors pitch for the top spot.
It is worn comfortably on the head like a pair of glasses and is made specifically to help those who cannot use a traditional mouse due to an inability to fully use their hands.
This year, for the first time, the competition was made up of two distinct categories. MEBot, a Mobility Enhancement Robotic Wheelchair was named Best New Concept, while GlassOuse, which uses Bluetooth to connect disabled users to computers, phones and televisions, won the Best New Product title.
GlassOuse helps those people who cannot use a traditional mouse due to an inability to fully use their hands.
MEBot is a robotic-powered, six-wheel wheelchair which has been designed to tackle both kerbs and challenging terrains, such as icy and slippery surfaces, as its large centre driving
While the traditional power wheelchair can get stuck on difficult types of ground, MEBot uses its front and rear caster wheels to inch
wheels can reposition themselves to simulate front, mid or rear-wheel driving.
forward on slick surfaces. It has a seat stabilisation system which keeps the driver safely upright and also stair climbing ability – which is ultimately what sets it apart from other wheelchair designs. The MEBot team, based in Pittsburgh, USA, will now receive a cash prize of £2,000 from BDA sponsor Kingdom Gas, professional support and guidance on design development from one of Scotland’s top product design companies, 4c Design, and backing from business law experts, Harper MacLeod, in addition to that of Blackwood. Rory Cooper, leader of the MEBot design team and director of the Human Engineering Research Laboratories at the University of Pittsburgh, said: “The MEBot was inspired by wounded, injured and ill veterans that would like to be able to do more than is possible with current wheeled mobility devices. “We wanted to provide safe and expanded mobility and a design that is functional both indoors and outdoors. “We entered the Blackwood Design Awards to challenge ourselves and to bring awareness to the needs of and opportunities for those with disabilities. We’re very excited to have won – it’s nice to have the validation of the innovation and hard work that our team put into the MEBot. “It was a fun experience and we would definitely encourage others to participate next year. Ultimately, we’d like to license the MEBot to
The headpiece has been designed for everyone but, in particular, to help those who have suffered traumatic injuries such as brain bleeds and tumours, strokes, spinal damage and cerebral palsy, which have left them needing additional support for everyday tasks. Mehmet said: “The Blackwood Design Awards is something we have heard about for years and we’re absolutely over the moon to have won the Best New Product title. “We entered as we share its aim to enable disabled people to live as independently as possible through designing accessible products in a way that is pleasing to the eye. “Everyone here has worked extremely hard to perfect GlassOuse. Though the headpiece can be used by anyone, we wanted to create something that would also make everyday tasks a lot easier for those who have suffered life changing injuries. “We’re currently designing GlassOuse 2 and are very excited for what’s to come in the future – especially now we have backing from Blackwood.” Fanchea Kelly, chief executive at Blackwood, said the competition is a great way to give designers a chance to showcase their talent, which wholly ties in with Blackwood’s ethos for providing innovative care. She added: “We were blown away by some of the entries and it was extremely difficult to choose just two, but MeBot and GlassOuse are incredibly innovative products and have the potential to be truly lifechanging for those with disabilities. “We would also like to wish all the runners up the best of luck and much continued success in their design endeavours.” The competition has built a reputation of enabling great success for winners, and entries now frequently come in from all over the globe.
“We were blown away by some of the entries and it was extremely difficult to choose just two...” 4
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Advertiser’s announcement
‘Pushing Boundaries’ the theme as BAPO returns to Coventry BAPO is pleased to announce its return to the Ricoh Arena, Coventry for the National Clinical Conference on Friday, March 17 to Sunday, March 19. The Friday programme will focus on health and participation in sport, with Linda Hindle from Public Health England discussing “the healthy conversations” that we as clinicians should be having with patients. Invictus captain Dave Henson and para-athlete Megan Giglia will share their experiences and provide insight into what sport means to those with a disability. Our sponsor Chas A Blatchford invite you to enjoy a bite to eat in the Exhibition hall on Friday evening while you catch up with old friends and colleagues and experience the variety of industry stands. NSP then ask for your company in the Legends Lounge at 9pm where our first 10 karaoke stars can earn themselves a free drink at the bar! The prosthetic programme will look at advances in technology with Professor Al Muderis, discussing Skeletal Fixation and Alex Crick speaking on Residual Limb revision surgery. The Ossur Keynote session embraces the Conference ‘Pushing the Boundaries’ theme by bringing together Nicole Roundy, Richard Whitehead and Richard Nieveen, three motivated people in the world
of prosthetics who have made a difference. A variety of professionals from BLESMA, ex service men and clinicians will discuss the transition from Headley Court back to the NHS. For both patient and clinician this can be a challenging time. The orthotic programme will look at what we can do as clinicians to improve our skills and knowledge as part of the multidisciplinary team and a valued Allied Health Professional. ‘Biomechanics in Sport’ will be the subject for our OETT Keynote speaker Simon Bartold, while Kristian Aquilina, Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon at GOSH will present on Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy. Laura Barr will share her experiences in becoming an extended scope practitioner and Jonathan McConnell will discuss x-ray interpretation and using this in our day-to-day practise. This will lead into the Orthotic Sunday Workshop where a more in-depth practical session will be available to full weekend delegates. The BAPO Benefit Ball on Saturday evening means cocktail dresses and evening suits are a must. We hope our charity raffle in aid of LimbPower will encourage you to have your wallets at the ready! Look out for more detailed information on Conference in issue 1 of BAPOmag
The state-of-the-art virtual training equipment at Bournemouth University.
Transforming lives with technology at gait laboratory A NEW world-class orthopaedic gait analysis laboratory – the ‘GRAIL’ (gait real-time analysis interactive laboratory) – and state-of-the-art virtual reality training equipment have been installed at Bournemouth University’s Orthopaedic Research Institute. The equipment was made possible thanks to a £700,000 local growth fund investment secured by Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership. The GRAIL, one of just three in the UK and 23 in the world, is being used by Bournemouth University to analyse the outcomes on patients of orthopaedic surgical procedures and devices. It includes a self-paced treadmill with integrated force plate, a 10-camera motion capture system and a 180-degree floor-toceiling surround screen featuring augmented reality scenes. The blue-chip virtual reality training equipment is one of the first modules in the world to give surgeons VR training in orthopaedic surgery ahead of actual patient surgery. It includes a virtual reality arthroscopy (a VR training system for hip arthroscopy based on virtual reality VR techniques). BUORI will be the only place in the world to offer this type of keyhole surgery training. Also included in the lab is a virtual reality – TKR (a VR training system for total knee replacement), and BUORI will be the first centre in Europe to offer this facility. The funding secured through Dorset LEP has also been invested in equipment for muscle testing (Primus RS), joint angle measurement, muscle force testing as well as models of hips for demonstrations and video recording equipment. It is anticipated that the cuttingedge laboratory and equipment will further establish BUORI as a centre of
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excellence in orthopaedics, attracting qualified practitioners and students from around the world to train at Bournemouth as well as generate up to £100million of investment into Dorset alongside 500 new jobs. Professor John Fletcher, pro-vicechancellor, research and innovation, at Bournemouth University, said: “This will bring great benefits to the students and qualified professionals being trained, as well as enhancing BUORI’s research activities. The enhancement of our medical science research is a key priority in our regional strategy. This is also a great example of the philosophy which resides at the heart of Bournemouth University’s work – making a difference by integrating our research, education and professional practice – as we believe that each benefits and reinforces the other. We are very pleased to be bringing new facilities to BU that will benefit people in Dorset and beyond.” Professor Rob Middleton, head of BUORI, added: “Thanks to Dorset LEP, BUORI now has world-class research and training facilities here in Bournemouth. Our virtual reality training simulators allow us to train surgeons in the BUORI labs, where in the past they would be going through a learning curve on real patients. It’s a big advance and we’re generating huge interest from around the country and abroad. “The gait lab allows researchers from across BU faculties to study human motion to improve sporting performance and treat injury and arthritis. Its unique contribution for studying joint replacements and their outcomes has attracted over 30 national and international companies to visit BUORI over the last year. “I am pleased to say that nine companies have now signed agreements and partnerships to work with BUORI.”
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Folding Minimo Plus mobility scooter wins BHTA Independent Living Design Award THE latest folding Minimo Plus mobility scooter from mobility specialist TGA won the acclaimed BHTA Independent Living Design Award 2016. The title was awarded to TGA at th British Healthcare Trades Associations Awards dinner – held at the prestigious 155 Bishopsgate Conference & Events Centre in The City of London. Senior managers from TGA and their partners attended this black tie event alongside other successful peers from the healthcare and mobility industry. Everyone enjoyed an entertaining evening hosted by popular TV presenter Penny Smith, who led the award proceedings and congratulated TGA on its success. The award was collected on behalf of the company by Daniel Stone, TGA managing director, and Tim Ross, TGA national sales manager.
delivering independence with peace of mind. “Our folding Minimo Plus provides a trusted solution for those individuals seeking freedom further afield when travelling by car, bus, train or plane. “We work closely with our manufacturers to ensure our scooter designs help resolve the latest challenges of living with restricted mobility. We are always listening to our customers and evolving our range accordingly. Our engineering heritage means TGA products are built well with exceptional reliability and ergonomics for comfortable, confident driving. “The TGA Minimo Plus encompasses these essential facets and will continue to provide a vital means by which people can live life on their own terms.”
Both Daniel and Tim were delighted to accept the award from Penny as it once again reiterated TGA’s focus on product quality and innovation.
The TGA Minimo Plus is a compact, folding ‘car boot’ mobility scooter that includes a high level of specification for advanced transportability, flexibility and comfort.
Daniel said: “The whole TGA team is proud to achieve this award as it symbolises our commitment to
It can be folded single-handedly in seconds and does not need any dismantling for simple lifting and
TV presenter Penny Smith is pictured with, from left to right: Bob Bingley, TGA senior stock controller/replenishment manager; Tim Ross, TGA national sales manager; Sarah Mead, TGA customer services manager; Dom Thomas, TGA service manager and Daniel Stone, TGA managing director.
storage. When levering on a car boot bumper, users only need to lift 9.9kg so strainfree handling is assured for owners or carers. The folding seat can be removed if preferred and an optional lifting handle helps with faster and easier loading into a car boot. It includes
an ultra-lightweight lithium battery as standard so off-board charging is strain-free and pneumatic tyres deliver a smooth and stable ride. As with all TGA products, the welldesigned and engineered Minimo Plus delivers exceptional performance, assured reliability and utmost comfort.
Clinicians launch new shockwave therapy service for injuries ORTHOPAEDIC specialists in Southampton are using a new shockwave therapy machine to help treat patients with persistent and painful tendon conditions such as tennis elbow. The system, funded by the League of Friends at the Royal South Hants Hospital, delivers ultrasonic impulses to break down damaged tissue and increase blood flow to affected areas. Although tendon problems usually develop during sports or activities which involve sudden movements, they can also be caused by repetitive daily routines which lead to repetitive strain injury. Conventional treatment options include physiotherapy and steroid injections which can require multiple hospital visits – compared to around three 30-minute sessions of shockwave therapy. The device will be based at the Royal South Hants Hospital where University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust holds orthopaedic treatment and outpatient clinics. Gorav Datta, a consultant orthopaedic 8
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surgeon at UHS, whose application led to the purchase of the machine, said: “This is a fantastic addition to our treatment options for patients who will often have had chronic tendon conditions that have persisted for many years when other methods have failed. “Shockwave therapy has a decent success rate – around 60 per cent – it is non-invasive and we hope to reduce the number of interventions, such as injections and operations, patients require to treat their conditions, so it really is a fantastic development for us.” “We would like to thank the League of Friends based at the RSH for their support for our service provided at the hospital and this is a great example of how important such charities are to the NHS.”
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Inspirational physiotherapist scoops top leadership award A PHYSIOTHERAPIST who has helped many patients with complex disability following critical illness regain physical function has won a top regional award for his outstanding leadership skills. Gareth Cornell, a clinical specialist physiotherapist in critical care at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, scooped the top prize in the ‘Developing and Leading People’ category at the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Leadership Awards. The Awards, which are run by Health Education England, recognise the ‘extra mile’ professionals working at all levels of the NHS have on improving people’s health and staff morale. Gareth, who is based on General Critical Care at the Northern General Hospital, was recognised in the ‘Leading and Developing People’ category for inspiring his colleagues to introduce new, improved ways of working that have enabled patients to regain physical function following severe acute disabling illness or injury. Alongside work he undertakes with
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a number of leading professional bodies including the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Respiratory Care and the Intensive Care Society, Gareth has promoted high standards of care through supporting staff in developing their clinical skills while working to improve clinical governance and the quality of education and training. In addition, Gareth and the team are working on developing a new role for occupational therapy in critical care in the Trust, as well as embarking on research activity. He said: “I am extremely humbled to have won this prestigious award. “I am extremely grateful every day to be part of such a committed therapy and critical care team, so to be singled out from hundreds of professionals from across the NHS in the region for inspiring and encouraging other NHS practitioners to improve practice for the benefit of patients is a real celebration of the team ethos we share. “Most of our work is aimed at helping people to recover from severe
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017
Gareth Cornell with colleagues Emma Ireland (left) and Lucy Stephens (right), who nominated him.
injury or illness. “We have managed to get patients on ventilators moving around, using the exercise bike and showering, which is really good progress.”
Gareth will now go head to head with winners from across the country in the National Recognition Awards ceremony which will take place in the spring.
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MBE for inspiring physiotherapist and researcher A SENIOR research fellow and physiotherapist at the University of Exeter Medical School has been honoured with an MBE in the New Year 2017 Honours List.
Dr Vicki Goodwin has been awarded the honour, presented for significant achievement or outstanding service to physiotherapy. She said: “I am completely shocked and truly humbled that I am being recognised for my work as a physiotherapist. Ultimately, my work is dedicated to improving the quality of life of older people, but it’s a real team effort. This is more a reflection of my family and friends and the people I have worked with over the years, who have supported and encouraged me.” Vicki is a physiotherapist specialising in the care of older people. Her main research interests are around the rehabilitation of older people, including those with dementia. She particularly specialises in areas including rehabilitation after falls – working towards ensuring older people can have the best quality of life possible. Before moving to academia she worked clinically for more than 10 years in the South Devon area. She currently works for the National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care – South West Peninsula (NIHR PenCLAHRC). Vicki is an honorary physiotherapist for Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation Trust. She has worked closely with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, AGILE (Chartered Physiotherapists working with Older People) and the British Geriatrics Society and has been involved in
Dr Vicki Goodwin
developing national guidelines with the National Osteoporosis Society, NICE and Public Health England. In 2015 she was made a Fellow of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Since Dr Goodwin became a physiotherapist in 1995, she has been committed to promoting physiotherapy and services for older people, providing inspiration, support and clinical leadership. Her support and encouragement has allowed multiple physiotherapists to further themselves and the field. Professor Karen Middleton CBE, the chief executive of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, said: “I am delighted Vicki has been given this prestigious award for her work. “She is an excellent role model for the physiotherapy profession and her contribution to healthcare is significant.”
The emPOWER Ankle is the only prosthetic ankle available on the market for above and below-knee amputees offering powered propulsion. This innovative prosthesis has been upgraded from the first generation to offer amputees the benefits of longer battery life and a more ergonomic design so they have more freedom in their life without having to think about their mobility. Manufactured by BionX and distributed by Ottobock, the emPOWER Ankle is the successor to the BiOM Ankle – the first generation of powered propulsion ankles. It is a bionic solution that replaces the function and power of lost muscles and tendons to help restore quality of life for above and below-knee amputees.
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NEWS
Biomechanics analysis for terminal diagnosis runner A RUNNER who was given three months to live more than a year ago has received a cutting edge biomechanics analysis at Abertay University ahead of a marathon attempt. Eric Hamilton from Dundee will take on the London Marathon despite doctors diagnosing him with incurable lung cancer last spring. The 60-year-old featured in a BBC documentary for Maggie’s Centres last year after a combination of running and the new drug Afatnib appeared to have a remarkable effect on prolonging his life. A team of experts from Abertay conducted a gait analysis session and physical testing in preparation for Eric’s latest challenge. He said: “I’ve had some problems with shin splints and I also wanted to lose a few more pounds before the race so I got in contact with the guys at Abertay for some help. I’m hoping they can sort out my gait and advise me how I should be running. “I’ve not run a marathon for 25 years but I used to do a lot of running in the late 80s and early 90s.” Sport and exercise science lecturer Dr Ashley Richardson, who conducted the analysis, said the results should help Eric optimise his training for the marathon. He added: ‘Efficiency of movement is fundamental when preparing for long distance runs such as a
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Eric Hamilton with lecturer Graeme Sorbie and Dr Ashley Richardson (left) and on the treadmill (right).
marathon. What Eric and other runners alike need is maximal linear translation using the minimal amount of energy. An abnormal inefficient running gait may also increase the risk of injury.
injuries.”
“Completing observational gait analysis can help Eric correct his biomechanics to one that is safer and more economical.
He is the only person in Tayside who has been matched with the drug. After his diagnosis Eric took up running, joined a mindfulness course, learned about cooking and healthy eating, and worked out with a personal trainer.
“This will allow for an improved performance running time and minimise the risk of running
Scans have shown that the Afatnib is stopping Eric’s tumour from growing, however he doesn’t know how long it will keep him alive.
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Paralympian voted Britain’s most influential person with disability
BRITAIN’S most successful Paralympian, Dame Sarah Storey, has been named as the most influential person with a disability in the UK.
disabled people are better represented in the workplace and to eradicate the traditional barriers holding people back from achieving life goals.”
Dame Sarah has come top of the Power 100 List of the most successful people with a disability or impairment in sport, business, politics and entertainment.
The Power 100 List, published by Powerful Media and sponsored by Shaw Trust, is a list of Britain’s most influential people with a disability or impairment as compiled by an independent judging panel, chaired by Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson.
Dame Sarah recently returned from the Rio Paralympic Games where she won three gold medals in cycling taking her overall total of gold medals to 12.
The top 10 on the Power List are: n Dame Sarah Storey - Britain’s most decorated female Parlympian.
Her list of major achievements also include being a 27-time world champion (five in swimming and 22 in cycling), a 21-time European champion (18 in swimming and three in cycling) and holding 72 world records. Dame Sarah said: “It is a tremendous honour to receive this award and I hope it shows that disability or a health condition is not a barrier to achievement.
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n Alex Brooker – from Channel 4’s Last Leg (last year’s number one) n Martyn Sibley – Blogger, TV presenter and social entrepreneur. n Liz Sayce OBE – CEO Disability Right’s UK. n Dame Evelyn Glennie – musician. Dame Sarah Storey
n Ade Adepitan – presenter, athlete.
“The Power 100 List is all about breaking down barriers that society puts up for disable people and acts as a beacon to inspire everyone all those with a disability or health condition who want to achieve their ambitions across all walks of life.”
health and well-being services across the UK, added: “This list plays a vital role in providing much needed encouragement to the young and talented leaders of tomorrow, allowing them to see that aspiration and ambition can be fulfilled regardless of disability or impairment.
n Henry Fraser – Mouth artist and motivational speaker.
Roy O’Shaughnessy, chief executive of Shaw Trust, a national disability charity providing employment opportunities, skills development training and
“Shaw Trust is working closely with the government, employers and local authorities to help halve the disability employment gap, to ensure
n Baroness Celia Thomas of Winchester MBE – Vice chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Muscular Dystrophy.
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n Andrew Marr – TV presenter, journalist. n Frank Gardner – Security correspondent (BBC News)
NEWS
Wearable health technology spin-out secures investment UNIVERSITY College Dublin spin-out company Kinesis Health Technologies has raised €590,000 in its first investment round. The company develops wearable sensor-based technology to provide better clinical insights. It will use the investment to expand global sales of its health diagnostic devices. The funding was raised from a consortium of private investors alongside a High-Potential Start-up (HPSU) investment from Enterprise Ireland. One of its registered medical devices, Kinesis QTUG™ utilises body-worn sensors combined with signal processing and machine learning methods, to provide a quantitative assessment of a patient’s mobility, frailty and falls risk, plus statistical comparisons against population averages for age and gender. “This funding will enable us to expand our engineering and commercial teams and grow sales of our intelligent health diagnostic devices which are addressing a major problem in the global health industry,
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in the area of mobility and falls risk assessment and gait assessment in older adults,” said Seamus Small, CEO and co-founder of Kinesis Health Technologies. Kinesis’ proprietary technologies are used by healthcare professionals to improve their ability to identify those patients at risk of falls and in need of help and intervention, to quantify a patient’s response to therapy and rehabilitation, and to assess patients for neurological disorders. The technology has been scientifically validated through an extensive programme of top-tier internationally peer-reviewed research in falls prevention over the past eight years, based on a large patient dataset. Kinesis has recently released a second product, Kinesis Gait™, a portable and flexible tool for clinical gait analysis. Kinesis Gait™ is intended for use in clinical trials, to assess rehabilitation improvements and to assess for neurological disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. The company has already secured
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017
Pictured at NexusUCD, the Industry Partnership Centre is Colm MacFhionnlaoich, manager, HPSU Industrial Products and Life Sciences, Enterprise Ireland, Dr Barry Greene, CTO and co-founder, Kinesis Health Technologies and Seamus Small, CEO and co-founder, Kinesis Health Technologies.
customers in Ireland, UK, US, Canada and Australia and aims to expand commercial activities in these countries, and in new territories, over the next 18 months. Kinesis was founded in 2013 by Seamus Small and Dr Barry Greene
as a spin-out company from the Technology Research for Independent Living Centre, a large ageing research programme, at UCD. The company is currently headquartered at NexusUCD, the University’s Industry Partnership Centre.
NHS funding for advanced prosthetics may lead to lower patient injury rates NEWS
By Alastair Ward NHS England recently announced that it is making 10 more treatments freely available to patients that were previously only accessible to those on private healthcare. While much attention has been paid to the availability of preexposure prophylaxis to combat HIV transmission, the others also offer huge benefits to patients and potential future savings for the NHS. One such treatment is microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees. These next generation intelligent joints will now be opened up to patients on the Health Service, meeting specific criteria, giving Prosthetists the opportunity to prescribe amputees with the best solutions the market has to offer. Microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees differ from traditional prosthetic models as they are designed with a battery powered, built-in, programmable computer that continuously controls both the swing and stance phase of the user’s walk based on real time data. Access to these microprocessorcontrolled knees will be hugely beneficial to those suffering with above knee and hip disarticulation amputations, particularly K3 walkers who face issues with injury and weight distribution when using prosthesis.
Alastair Ward (right) and Blatchford’s Orion 3 joint, which provides the wearer with support when moving or standing still.
Joints such as Blatchford’s Orion 3 adapt hydraulic resistance in real time, providing the wearer with support when moving in any environment or standing still. This model also has stumble recovery technology, ensuring that the knee remains stable should the user falter. This eliminates the risk of amputees falling or injuring themselves when walking or changing environments, providing users with the confidence and stability needed to move without fear. Such benefits not only make a huge difference to patient safety and quality of life; they also reduce the lifelong care needs of amputees.
Using current systems available on the NHS, amputees may often struggle to stand still as their knees have limited stability. The lack of trust in their prosthetic limb often means that the user will shift their weight on to the none-amputated limb.
Prevention of falls is just one aspect – reducing the chances of acute injuries – but effective stabilisation can also cut the knock-on medical problems often experienced by amputees with conventional prosthesis and joints, such as lower-back pain, arthritis and hip replacements.
This has a detrimental effect on other joints. Users of microprocessorcontrolled knees also benefit from stability on different terrains, slopes and steps, as well as being able to walk more naturally and efficiently at either single or varying speeds.
If patients wearing microprocessorcontrolled limbs are less likely to injure themselves thanks to the advanced technology, this has the potential to reduce costs and waiting times at clinics. If fewer amputees have to visit GPs or hospital wards
due to prosthetic issues or injuries, NHS time and money can be spent on other areas. As well as this, the decision to make microprocessor knees readily available to NHS patients will act as a catalyst to accelerate the development of even more advanced technologies to improve patients’ lives further. Previously, the technology was only accessible to a small market, hindering developer’s potential to grow and expand. Now that the treatment will be available on the Health Service, the amount of people who require these devices has suddenly become far broader. This will provide a much larger user group who can shape the future of the devices. This user input is crucial for Blatchford – we work closely with users to ensure that each solution is attuned to their personal needs, and gather their feedback to develop updates for the benefit of future users. To ensure developers of prosthetics stand out to the NHS as a natural choice, companies will need to make sure that the product on offer provides users with the best functionality possible, whilst also
proving to be the best value for money. This battle within the prosthesis market is only going to increase the pace of development of these limbs, helping create better devices that will benefit all in the future. There are already some highly advanced prosthetics available, and the industry will continue to search for ways to create even more advanced microprocessor-controlled knees in the future. It’s refreshing to see that UK residents will now have access to best-in-class technology that is already widely available in other countries. In a world where technology continues to improve the lives of patients, it is a positive step to see NHS England harnessing what the market has to offer to benefit amputees, as well as investing in preventative measures to reduce the need for future treatments. This is a positive step forward for patients, the Health Service and the industry alike, and stands to only get better as the technology develops and becomes more accessible. n Alastair Ward is a prosthetist, training and education specialist at Blatchford.
Craig named first director of elite health DOCTOR Craig Ranson, programme director for MSc Sport and Exercise Medicine at Cardiff Met, has been appointed director of athlete health at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield, the UK’s largest provider of sport science and medicine to elite sport. This is a newly created role and is key to EIS’ Tokyo cycle strategy (20172021), which will prepare athletes for 2020’s Olympics. The creation of Dr Ranson’s new role reflects the increasing 18
importance of this area of work and is in recognition of the benefits of reducing the number of days that athletes lose to injury and illness. Dr Ranson has extensive experience as a physiotherapist and sport medicine consultant and as well as his role at Cardiff Met, he currently works as sport science and medicine consultant to the International Cricket Council and team physiotherapist to the Welsh Rrugby team. Prior to this, he was chief
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physiotherapist at UK Athletics and head of physiotherapy at the England and Wales Cricket Board. He will lead the EIS’ newly created athlete health department which works with sports to provide injury and illness surveillance and analysis that can be used to inform individualised training programmes and medical plans. Craig said: “I am very excited to be joining the EIS. This new role provides a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the enhancement
of British athletes’ health and wellbeing, and I look forward to working with the EIS team and the sports it supports.” The EIS helps elite athletes improve performance through the delivery of science, medicine, technology and engineering. It worked with 93 per cent of the GB Rio medallists and its 350-plus employees deliver in excess of 4,500 hours of service each week to athletes across more than 30 Olympic and Paralympic sports.
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Ensure the smooth running of your clinic with Locum Notion
LOCUM Notion is well aware that the last thing that service companies want to do is rely upon Locum cover for their clinics; however, we also realise that unavoidable situations may arise in which Locum cover is essential to ensure the smooth running of clinics. The foundation of Locum Notion was based upon the desire to meet the needs of both NHS Trusts, privately contracted service providers, and locum orthotists, with the aim of primarily making the process of covering clinics as stress-free and seamless as possible, whilst providing the highest level of service all round.
Our Locums have experience in all areas of Orthotics including Spinal, Foot and Ankle, Neuro, Paediatrics, Rheumatology, Diabetic and Gait Lab; and have knowledge of NHS IT systems as well as OPAS and CIMS. All Locums are experienced HCPC registered Orthotists, with an advanced DBS available, and we ensure all of our clinicians carry photo ID whilst in clinic.
The Quays Orthotic Practice was established in 2011 by Pam Coulton, who has previously worked as Principle Orthotist within the NHS and more recently as Clinical Orthotic Support for one of the large service providers.
Using the services of Locum Notion removes all of the hassles involved with trying to book Locums for your clinics. With one phone call we can have a Locum booked with all of the correct experience required for your specific needs.
Pam also has many years of experience working as a Locum Orthotist, and has used this to create Locum Notion, the only agency of its kind in the UK.
We will ensure that the Locum is provided with all information needed by them in order to professionally cover the clinic, including; Hospital/ Clinic address, clinic times, contact details, specific tools required etc.
Long or short term cover is possible, meaning that we can
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handle everything from illness or compassionate leave, through to annual leave or even longer periods including maternity cover.
If you’re an orthotist with the
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agency, we will offer work that fits your clinical profile, but we will also book and pre-pay hotels and meals if necessary, pay top session rates quickly on receipt of invoice, guarantee good mileage rates, and provide specific CPD opportunities where possible. Whether you are trying to cover an occasional free period in your diary, or whether you wish us to provide your work year-round, you will be part of
the team, and our professional staff will work to ensure that we take good care of your business. So, if you’re responsible for covering clinics, or if you’re an orthotist looking to fill your diary, call us today, or pop to our stand (19) at BAPO and have a chat with someone from our team, who will be more than happy to fill in any blanks, or give more detailed information on pricing and availability.
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Former footballer graduates as qualified physiotherapist A FORMER Nottingham Forest defender who was forced into early retirement after a traumatic head injury has graduated as a physio from The University of Salford. John Thompson, 35, who also played for Notts County FC and Oldham Athletic FC, suffered a severe injury in a friendly match while playing for Mansfield Town in 2011. He decided to enrol on the University of Salford’s part time four-year Physiotherapy course, partly funded by the Professional Footballers Association. John will now graduate with a 2:1 and experience in industry from undertaking several successful physiotherapy placements. He said: “I am excited to be graduating. The course has been
brilliant and time has flown very quickly. I chose to do my degree at Salford because of its good reputation, and also quite a few retired footballers come here to train as physiotherapists. “When I was forced into early retirement, at first I found it tough physically and mentally. I tried to get back playing football as before but was unsuccessful, but through the course I learned that physiotherapy was a career that I wanted to pursue.” During his course, John has been given the opportunity to undertake several industry placements, including one for six weeks as a physio at his former club Nottingham Forest, and a string of placements within the NHS. “It can be difficult sometimes for me
to juggle my placements with my personal training business and raising my young daughter Darcey,” he said. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my wife Laura, my family, my personal tutor Wendy Monroe and the PFA. “I have made some great friends on this course, not least fellow exfootballers Robert Duffy and Gary Silk who graduated recently. Being a mature student means that I have been out of the education system for a long time, but the lecturers at Salford University definitely made things easier for me.” John is currently deciding whether to begin a career as a health physiotherapist within the NHS or as a sports physiotherapist. He graduated in the ceremony for the School of Health Sciences.
John Thompson
£750k grant to help children who have lost limbs A NEW generation of child prosthetic devices, including state-of-the-art technologies, are to be developed by a Sheffield-based NIHR Devices for Dignity Healthcare Technology Co-operative as part of a £750,000 government-backed initiative. Announced by Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt, the national Child Prosthetics Research Collaboration will bring together clinicians, academics and industry partners so that innovations and research into child prosthetics can be brought to the NHS more quickly and to greater
scale. It is to be led by Sheffieldbased organisation NIHR Devices for Dignity Healthcare Technology Co-operative .
As well as providing strategic leadership to create a national focus on child prosthetics, the collaboration will encourage the development of new research activity by attracting the brightest and most talented clinicians, academics and entrepreneurs to the field. The views and involvement of patients, families and children will also be sought so that new
Orthosis is fabricated to the patient’s unique model BEAGLE Orthopaedic houses a large spinal database of spinal models to suit a variety of patients.
We can also provide a customised combination of products for high thoracic fractures / instabilities. 22
D4D is hosted by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and is one of eight specialist NIHR Healthcare Technology Co-operatives set up by the Department of Health. D4D’s goal is to develop new technologies that enable people with long-term conditions to live more independent lives. It is funded by the National Institute for Health Research
The chosen TLSO is then coupled with components from the Aspen CTO, to provide the stability required for your patient in the upper thoracic and cervical region. This design offers a step-down reduction for on-going rehabilitation therapy. Available in paediatric and adult sizes. Enquiries: Call 01254 268788 or e-mail info@beagleortho.com
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(NIHR), the research arm of the NHS.
Dr Nicola Heron, programme director for D4D, said: “We are delighted to be at the forefront of this exciting national initiative. Prosthetic devices can be pivotal in transforming the quality of child’s life, restoring confidence, mobility, reducing anxiety and social stigma. “D4D and its partner HTCs have a wealth of expertise in working with clinicians, academics, industry partners and patients to develop technology that meets children’s specific needs.”
New private physiotherapy service launches in Suffolk WEST Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust has launched a new private physiotherapy service to help people recover from injury and enhance their wellbeing.
From this extensive library we can manufacture your CTLSO using measures provided from a simple measurement chart, we then adapt the relevant model to meet the specification. Each orthosis is fabricated to the patient’s unique model and your specifications, ensuring the optimum fit, support and comfort. CTLSO’s are available as; bi-valve design finished to completion (no intermediate fitting) with a variety of liners such as cool foam, north foam 33, evazote and lambs wool.
technologies and research can be developed based on clinical and user need and a forum established to showcase cutting-edge technologies and latest research and innovation.
Called West Suffolk Physio, the new service, based in Bury St Edmunds, is staffed by a team of NHS-trained physiotherapists who also work at West Suffolk Hospital. The innovative new service is a tailor-made private option for people who want to top-up on what can be offered by existing NHS physiotherapy services from the hospital. It also gives more choice for people who want to pay for a service that is quickly accessible and convenient for them. Any income generated by the service will be reinvested into NHS services provided by the Trust.
Therapists at West Suffolk Physio can assess and treat a wide spectrum of joint, soft tissue and nerve related problems as well as offering specialist interventions and advice in relation to respiratory conditions, rehabilitation after surgery, continence problems, mobility and falls and pain management.
As well as providing treatments at the purpose-built Hillside Road centre, physiotherapists from the service will visit people in their homes if this is more practical for the client rather than coming to the clinic. Amanda Fairgrieve, lead outpatient physiotherapist at the hospital, said: “We are delighted that we have the opportunity to launch this brand new service which will enhance the existing physiotherapy provision the hospital is able to provide.”