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INNOVATION FOR INDEPENDENCE
ISSUE 96 APRIL/MAY 2014 £6.95
Muscles being created from fishing lines By Nicola Hyde RESEARCHERS are using fibres from fishing line and sewing thread to create inexpensive artificial muscles that could be used in medical devices, humanoid robots and prosthetic limbs. In a study published in Science, international researchers – including University of British Columbia Electrical and Computer Engineering professor John Madden and PhD candidate Seyed Mohammad Mirvakili – detail how they created inexpensive artificial muscles that generate far more force and power than human or animal muscles of the same size. Seyed said one of the artificial muscles is so strong it can lift a two-litre bottle of pop. Professor John Madden added: “In terms of the strength and power of the artificial muscle, we found that it can quickly lift weights 100 times heavier than a same-sized human muscle can, in a single contraction. “It also has a higher power output for its weight than that of an automobile combustion engine.”
Artificial muscles have been made successfully out of materials like metal wires and carbon nanotubes in the past. But researchers and device makers have found these artificial muscles expensive to fabricate and difficult to control. Professor Madden and his colleagues used high-strength polymer fibres made from polyethylene and nylon, the common materials in fishing lines and sewing thread. The fibres were twisted into tight coils – like you would twist the rubber band of a model toy airplane – to create an artificial muscle that could contract and relax. The artificial muscles contract and relax in response to changes in temperature, which can be controlled by an electrical heating element. This system has been demonstrated by using such muscles to manipulate surgical forceps. The artificial muscles may also find use in robots and low cost devices that help those with impaired mobility, the researchers say.
Presenter Alex Brooker will be visiting Naidex on the morning of April 29 to share his journey since bursting onto television screens in 2012 where he reported on the London Paralympics. He will also be discussing his appearances on The Last Leg, The Jump and Alex Brooker: My Perfect Body at the annual exhibition, which takes place at the Birmingham NEC from April 29 to May 1.
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Paralysed ex-model to do charity virtual cycle By Nicola Hyde
Lolly Mack, 40, from Hackney, East London, has already started the 264mile cycle using her RT300 SLSA functional electrical stimulation (FES) bike, which she got from Cyclone Technologies shortly after her accident 10 years ago.
Lolly set herself the target of covering 15 miles a day to complete the challenge within a month. She said: “After the first few days, I was having sleepless nights as my muscles were aching, but it was a good feeling. It reminded me of when I used to go to the gym before my accident – it feels like I’m giving my body an intense workout.
Editorial Judith Halkerston Email: jh@scriptmedia.co.uk
Group Editor
Dominic Musgrave Group Production Editor Email: dm@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734407 Nicola Hyde Reporter Email: news@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734715 Sales
AN ex-model who was left paralysed after a nightclub accident is doing a virtual cycle from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to raise money for spinal cord injury charities.
The FES cycle stimulates the lower motor neurons and evokes patterned movement of the arms and legs, and, since using it, Lolly has regained the use of her arms and it has given her greater independence.
Contacts
Carole Rice
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Product Manager
Email: cr@scriptmedia.co.uk Tel: 01226 734412 Fax: 01226 734478 Tony Barry Sales and Marketing Director Email: tb@scriptmedia.co.uk Circulation circulation@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 24 hour hotline: 01226 734695
Lolly Mack is aiming to ‘cycle’ from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.
“One of the key aims of the cycle challenge is to raise awareness of SCI and to raise funds for charities that will fund research for a cure for chronic SCI. I’m very positive that, in time, a cure will be found.” Lolly became paralysed in an accident in March 2004, while at a nightclub with her friends. She bought a drink at the bar and headed to the dance
Design/Production Stewart Holt Studio Manager Email: sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Laura Blackburn Graphic Designer Email: lb@scriptmedia.co.uk
floor, when a drunken 24-year-old man, who was on ecstasy, leapt from the balcony above and landed directly on top of her. Lolly has already reached her target of £1,500 and the LA to Las Vegas cycle is the second charity challenge for her. Last year, she did a skydive for Spinal Research and raised more than £3,000.
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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Dennis feels in real time thanks to wired hand NEWS
By Nicola Hyde
Rehabilitation and injury management company RehabWorks has announced the appointment of a new director. Jason Blackman has been with the business, which has bases in Suffolk and Scotland, since late 2012 but now takes the promotion to the role of Finance Director. Jason will lead the financial strategy of RehabWorks, with significant growth predicted and a rebrand of its current online presence already under way. RehabWorks has more than 20 years’ experience of providing injury management and rehabilitation programmes.
AN AMPUTEE from Denmark has become the first in the world to feel in real time thanks to a prosthetic hand wired to the nerves in his upper arms. Dennis Aabo Sørensen - who lost his left hand in an accident nine years ago - could grasp objects intuitively and identify what he was touching while blindfolded. Silvestro Micera and his team at EPFL (Switzerland) and SSSA (Italy) developed the revolutionary sensory feedback that allowed Sørensen to feel again while handling objects. The study is published in the February 5, 2014 edition of Science Translational Medicine, and represents a collaboration called Lifehand 2 between several European universities and hospitals. Dennis said: “The sensory feedback was incredible. I could feel things that I hadn’t been able to feel in over nine years. “When I held an object, I could feel if it was soft or hard, round or square.”
Glen Kiernan has been appointed as national sales manager for Promedics, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience from companies such as DJO and Medi. Promedics MD David Baxendale said: “We are thrilled to be able to welcome Glen to head up our successful sales team. His experience will help us to continue the growth of Promedics range and also those from our partners Breg, Orfit and North Coast Medical.” Carol Leech – who has been National Sales Manager for the past three years – moves to a new role of business development manager.
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In a laboratory setting wearing a blindfold and earplugs, Sørensen was able to detect how strongly he was grasping, as well as the shape and consistency of different objects he picked up with his prosthetic. Micera and his team enhanced the artificial hand with sensors that detect information about touch. This was done by measuring the tension in artificial tendons that control finger movement and turning this measurement into an electrical current. But this electrical signal is too coarse to be understood by the nervous system. Using computer algorithms, the scientists transformed the electrical signal into an impulse that sensory nerves can interpret. The sense of touch was achieved by
Dennis Aabo Sørensen wearing the hand wired to the nerves in his upper arms.
sending the digitally refined signal through wires into four electrodes that were surgically implanted into what remains of Sørensen’s upper arm nerves. “This is the first time in neuroprosthetics that sensory feedback has been restored and used by an amputee in real-time to control an artificial limb,” says Micera. “We were worried about reduced sensitivity in Dennis’ nerves since they hadn’t been used in over nine years,” says Stanisa Raspopovic, first author and scientist at EPFL and SSSA. These concerns faded away as the scientists successfully reactivated Sørensen’s sense of touch. The scientists believe the clinical
study provides the first step towards a bionic hand, although a sensoryenhanced prosthetic is years away from being commercially available. The next step involves miniaturising the sensory feedback electronics for a portable prosthetic. In addition, the scientists will fine-tune the sensory technology for better touch resolution and increased awareness about the angular movement of fingers. The electrodes were removed from Sørensen’s arm after one month due to safety restrictions imposed on clinical trials, although the scientists are optimistic that they could remain implanted and functional without damage to the nervous system for many years.
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Yorkshire-made hand stars in Super Bowl commercial A COMMERCIAL featuring a myoelectric prosthetic hand that was made in Yorkshire has been viewed by over 100 million people after it aired during the American Super Bowl. The video which features the bionic hand bebionic3 has had almost three million views on YouTube, appeared in over 100 different news features from every continent, and headlined conferences throughout the world. The minute-long Microsoft commercial featured a number of people who use technology to overcome physical handicaps. This included Nigel Ackland, who was fitted with the bebionic3 after losing his forearm in an industrial accident several years ago, and was narrated by NFL player Steve Gleason, who now suffers from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and uses eye-gaze technology to speak. Paul Steeper, managing director of RSLSteeper Prosthetics Division, was
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“To have that ad shown during the Super Bowl in front of millions of people around the world is simply mind blowing.”
By Nicola Hyde
‘overwhelmed’ with the response. He said: “We are extremely proud of the technology behind bebionic3 and the impact it has had on the lives of people, like Nigel. However, we could never have prepared for the remarkable worldwide reaction that has taken place since we launched the product. “How can you prepare for a call from Microsoft to discuss the use of your product on one of the world’s biggest commercials in front of 100 million viewers? It’s truly amazing. “We just ensure that our focus is, as ever, on improving people’s lives. We developed the bebionic3 hand not
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I APRIL/MAY 2014
Nigel Ackland with the bebionic3 hand.
only to be the most advanced compliant hand on the market but also to be easy-to-use and accessible to as many wearers as possible. That will never change.” Nigel Ackland, the 53 year old former precious metal smelt worker, said: “My life has been extra-ordinary since being fitted with the bebionic3 hand and taking part in a Microsoft ad showing how technology is
helping ordinary people was a privilege in itself. “To have that ad shown during the Super Bowl in front of millions of people around the world is simply mind blowing.” RSLSteeper is one of the UK’s leading providers of prosthetic and orthotic clinical services and a major manufacturer of upper extremity product systems.
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Firm behind first foldable wheelchair scoops award THE COMPANY that developed the world’s first ever foldable wheelchair wheels has won an award for innovation. Bel-Art’s engineers has been commended by Popular Science magazine for its Morph™ Wheels the product received the Popular Science “Best of What's New” award in the Health category. Shirley Miller, director of marketing, said Morph wheels were originally conceptualized as a folding bicycle wheel by Duncan Fitzsimmons, a graduate student at the Royal College of Arts in London.
She added: “Calls from the wheelchair community for a similar product inspired Fitzsimmons to work up an initial design for a folding wheelchair wheel. “When folded, the compact size of Morph wheels makes them particularly convenient for travel. “For example, Morph Wheels fit into the overhead bin of an airplane.” Since being introduced, Morph wheels have won several design and innovation awards including Attendee voted Best New Product at Medtrade Spring 2013 trade fair.
Matt Short and Abdo Haidar.
Prosthetic skiing leg helps Matthew push his dreams forward By Nicola Hyde AN AMPUTEE from Kent is pushing forward with his Paralympic dreams thanks to a specialised prosthetic skiing leg developed by The London Prosthetic Centre. Matthew Short, 22, from Paddock Wood in Kent, was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2007 and, despite months of treatment, had to have his leg amputated below the knee. The trainee solicitor suffered a relapse in 2010 but became determined to make a return to sport and began learning how to ski again – training alongside the British Disabled Ski Team. He said: “Skiing with the development squad was fantastic and joining the team is something that I’m very keen to do. I’m still fairly new to it all, but I’m hoping to be good enough to take part in the 2016 Paralympics.” Matt’s NHS prosthesis allows him to engage in a range of sporting activities, including playing squash,
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walking and running, but it is not well-suited to the slopes, due to its lack of stability and manoeuvrability. Abdo Haidar, consultant prosthetist at The London Prosthetics Centre, was referred to him by Heather Mills, with whom he was training on the development squad. He said: “The key benefit for Matt will be that this new leg has been specifically designed for skiing, and to meet his exact requirements. Our aim is to provide Matt with the ideal solution, to help him achieve his goals on the slopes and embark on his Paralympic dream. Once the leg is complete, I’ll be visiting the indoor skiing slope at Hemel Hempstead to watch Matt ski and see if the leg requires any alterations.” The London Prosthetic Centre is the only one in the capital to provide cutting-edge prosthetic care within a private facility equipped with a modern workshop and silicone facilities.
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Robot expected to give amputee musicians control and creativity By Nicola Hyde
his right arm below the elbow.
A ROBOT that can be attached to amputees is expected to bring more control and creativity to amputee musicians worldwide.
The Atlanta Institute of Music and Media student built his own prosthetic device shortly after the accident. It wasn’t very flexible. He could bang the drums by moving his elbow up and down, but couldn’t control the speed or bounce of the stick without a wrist or fingers.
Professor Gil Weinberg at Georgia Tech has created a robot that can be attached to amputees, allowing its technology to be embedded into humans. The robotic drumming prosthesis has motors that power two drumsticks. The first stick is controlled both physically by the musicians’ arms and electronically using electromyography (EMG) muscle sensors. The other stick “listens” to the music being played and improvises. Professor Weinberg said: “The second drumstick has a mind of its own. The drummer essentially becomes a cyborg. It’s interesting to see him playing and improvising with part of his arm that he doesn’t totally control.” The prosthesis was created for Jason Barnes, a drummer who was electrocuted two years ago and lost
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That’s when Weinberg stepped in to create a single-stick device with sensors that responds to Barnes’ bicep muscles. Jason said: “Now I can flex and send signals to a computer that tightens or loosens the stick and controls the rebound.” Professor Weinberg added: “Jason can pull the robotic stick away from the drum when he wants to be fully in control. Or he can allow it to play on its own and be surprised and inspired by his own arm responding to his drumming. “Music is very time sensitive. You can hear the difference between two strokes, even if they are a few milliseconds apart.
Drummer Jason Barnes tries out the robot.
“If we are able to use machine learning from Jason’s muscles (and in future steps, from his brain activity) to determine when he intends to drum and have the stick hit at that moment, both arms can be synchronized.”
Picture credit: Rob Felt/Georgia Tech
For Jason, it’s all about the music. Because an embedded chip can control the speed of the drumsticks, the prosthesis can be programmed to play two sticks at a different rhythm. It can also move the sticks faster than humanly possible.
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Limbcare founder Ray stars in ITV drama NEWS
THE FOUNDER of a charity that supports amputees has featured on ITV crime drama Law & Order. Limbcare founder Ray Edwards MBE appeared alongside Bradley Walsh on the show where he played limbless jeweller Harry Bernstein, who is found dead after a horrific car crash. Ray said: “They wanted a real person in the role, who didn’t have any arms and legs, not a dummy, and they gave me the star treatment on set. “I even had my own caravan. I would be very happy to do it again.” Ray has been a quad amputee since 1987 when he lost all limbs as a result of blood poisoning. He has inspired people through motivational and inspirational speaking and in 2007 was awarded the Douglas Bader Inspiration Award for his work with amputees. He added: “I wanted to do this to prove to others that you can get work and there is life after something like this happens to you. “Law &Order: UK is a unique way of showing that life goes on – although admittedly – I do play a corpse.” The programme aired in March.
Ray Edwards MBE
Helen Chapman with her new bespoke running blade.
Helen’s in the pink ahead of Marathon A WOMAN who launched her own fund-raising campaign to buy some running blades is now gearing up to take part in the London Marathon.
And now she has her own bespoke running blade, supplied by Pace Rehabilitation, finished in a signature colour of shocking pink.
Helen Chapman was injured in a road accident when she was 10 – and after 20 years of struggling – opted for an ankle disarticulation (Symes) amputation.
LimbPower CEO, Kiera Roche said Helen is now a trustee.
She’s already done a number of challenges to raise money for LimbPower: she’s walked Hadrian’s Wall and took part in the Paris Nightrider cycling event.
She added: “We couldn’t be happier to see Helen with her amazing new blade. She has been an inspiration to us all and such a fantastic supporter of LimbPower, we are just so pleased that we could help her to achieve this long-held dream.”
VX ambassador role for Phil TRAIL-BLADE runner Phil Sheridan has become an ambassador for the sport Global VX – previously known as Rock-It-Ball. Phil, from Keighley, West Yorkshire, survived a near fatal road accident in 2002 and had his right leg amputated below the knee. He said: “In December 2013 I came across VX at an event hosted by Leeds Trinity University. At the invitation of Dr Paul Hildreth and Helen Mackenzie I took the opportunity to give it a go. “Fast paced, fun and dynamic. VX 10
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places a strong emphasis on fair play, inclusivity and respect, core values we can all aspire to. Phil, who speaks and lectures on the lived experience of surviving significant trauma, recovery and rehabilitation, works as a simulated patient for the University of Leeds Institute of Medical Education and offers consultation to clinicians on affective communication with patients. He will now be joining the team in a triathlon to raise money to help send the squad to compete in the World Cup in the USA in 2015.
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sponsors kids
Paediatric prosthetics present a unique set of circumstances CHILDREN’S prosthetics shares many common areas with that of adults, when it comes to fitting principles, component selection, treatment regimes, facilities, resources and so on. But in fact treating children with limb loss presents a set of unique circumstances to the clinical team, be it related to amputation management and rehabilitation, prosthesis provision or anything that is compounded by their continual changing circumstances. Around the world, care regimes differ considerably, ranging from specialised paediatric rehabilitation and treatment centres to indistinguishable care provision within a predominantly adult healthcare system. Irrespective of amputation causation, prosthetic intervention is essentially occupied with an increasing dynamic and rapid growth. The notion of in-built adjustability is common in children’s prosthetic
practice. Making sockets with removable pads or liners made from material that is easy to modify to cater for both increasing longitudinal and circumferential size is popular.
necessary. Now Össur is pleased to announce a new range of products that add to an already comprehensive and popular range of Junior Solutions.
Associated with increased growth and activity is ever-changing alignment requirements.
The new Cheetah® Xplore has the function associated with its adult counterpart, allowing low build height fitting options, but uniquely features a full length sole and foot shell, over which regular shoes can be used.
Finally, this leads to the modular concept of fitting components that can adjusted for length and foot size. Whereas this can be cost effective, it can often be at the expense of function, something at the very heart of watching children grow and getting active. Until now there has been little true choice for children to enjoy functional prosthesis like those worn by active adults, despite their hunger for running around and keeping up with their peers. Össur Flex-Run™ Junior is a foot that offers such function and has been used with great success by many
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A multi-purpose option that offers children the function they deserve in all environments. The Vari-Flex Junior.
children. Often chosen for recreational use, many then go on to use this prosthesis full time. Its lack of cosmetic appearance has not been an issue for children, or most parents. However, in certain environments like school, for example, can cause issues with other children or multi activities where a change of footwear is
Additionally there is also the Cheetah® Junior, a recreation specific option, and a junior version of the popular Vari-Flex®, offering modular construction. Recognising that kids are more active than adults and that they deserve solutions that liberate their energy and enthusiasm, this range of new products allows greater and more appropriate choice for all children.
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KIDS
The toileting challenge for children with disabilities FOR A child with multiple physical disabilities, toileting can be challenging and difficult.
However, if provided with the right environmental modifications and positioning aids, most children can improve their toileting skills resulting in effective elimination and increased independence levels. The question is how to best facilitate this outcome. Transfers on and off the toilet are central to the toileting sequence and help build independence. Ironically, many parents discontinue their child’s toilet training routines precisely because lifting their child onto the toilet becomes too strenuous. However, if given the opportunity, children can learn to participate in these transfers. For those who struggle with weight-bearing or walking, a vertical changing station or padded table can help them perform a pull-to-stand transfer. Their body-weight can be supported on the padded surfaces while carers adjust the clothing and roll a commode in from behind. The transfer to the toilet can then be used as an opportunity to practice sit-to-stand and weight-bearing skills at the same time. Ultimately, this will result in improved transfer skill performance and decrease the strain and risk of injury to the carer as they assist with these transfers. The next step is toilet positioning. Adaptations are usually necessary to accommodate deformities, muscle tone, and lack of postural control while at the same time ensuring that the child is stable, comfortable and positioned in the best possible way for effective elimination. Without optimal positioning, children with disabilities may not be able to completely empty their bowel and bladder, putting them at an increased risk for urinary tract infections, constipation and other complications. Providing a feeling of stability on the toilet is key to this process. If children are well positioned and balanced in sitting, they will also be relaxed, which allows the abdominal muscles to relax. If children are continuously fighting to maintain an upright posture on the toilet, they will be unable to relax and concentrate on 12
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the toileting task at hand. The use of adaptive toileting chairs can help create an environment of stability and allow a child to comfortably maintain balance without fear of falling off the toilet. What constitutes an effective adaptive toileting chair? The recommended basics include a firm base of support with the feet planted, a good back support and a grab bar or other support in front. As with active sitting, a forward positioning of the shoulders and upper extremities (as when holding on to or leaning against an anterior support) enables better head and trunk control and stability. Ideally the lower limbs should be positioned in such a way that the knees are slightly higher than the hips, which aids better bowel and bladder elimination. For children with extensor tone or poor postural control, additional seat-to-back angle adjustments or other external support systems may be necessary. In addition to feeling stable and relaxed on a toilet, the child also needs to feel comfortable. Children with disabilities often need more time to complete the toileting task, so comfort is important. Smooth contoured surfaces or padding on weight bearing surfaces can certainly provide an improved level of comfort. Essentially, for children with disabilities, toileting can be used as an opportunity to enhance skills and independence. The key is to find ways to make the toileting task easier and more effective, through improved methods of transfer and positioning. Adaptive toileting chairs can facilitate both – yet the design of such chairs has, until recently, fallen short in optimising positioning and comfort. With proper technique and proper equipment design, most children with disabilities can learn effective toileting and therefore achieve more fulfilling, independent lives. Article based on paper by Elena Noble, MPT, for Rifton. Full article can be viewed at http://www.rifton .com/~/media/files/rifton/whitepapers/toilet-positioning-physicaldisabilities.pdf
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Blade helps Rio run Leon dreams of becoming in a pair of trainers the world’s fastest sprinter for the first time A FIVE-YEAR-OLD boy has run in a pair of trainers for the first time after being fitted with a newly designed version of the Cheetah Running Blade.
important elements for Rio as he can now fit in with all his friends and wear a pair of shoes when he plays with his friends or a pair of trainers in PE at school.
Rio Woolf was fitted with the blade from Ossur, which is tailored especially for children.
Paul Neve said: “The footplate creates a huge advantage as Rio now has a heel. This means that he can walk heel-toe, heel-toe, rather than only being able to bounce on the blade.
The Junior Cheetah Xplore prosthesis is the first of its kind in the UK and is based on the original Cheetah used by leading Paralympians such as Jonnie Peacock. Dorset Orthopaedic and Ossur worked closely to provide Rio with this custom designed prosthesis, allowing him to run in a pair of trainers for the very first time. Ossur positioned a footplate on the bottom of the blade so that Rio’s prosthetist at Dorset Orthopaedic, Paul Neve, could cover it with a basic foam covering in order to create a foot. The foot was one of the most
“The foot gives the blade the capacity to allow the user to stand still rather than constantly bouncing from the spring that you would encounter with the original model. Rio can run, jump, stand, walk and play. “The key thing is that it is a lightweight high activity leg. It will flex and bounce back with an element of springiness. “Rio will get back almost 100 per cent of the energy he puts into the blade, making it very efficient for any of his activities.”
A BOY who has dreams of becoming the fastest amputee sprinter in the world is racing to success after one of the country’s leading suppliers gifted him with an award-winning prosthetic leg.
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Leon Meal-Moss, 10, caught the attention of Dorset Orthopaedic who were so impressed by him that they decided to fit him with the first paediatric limb to be covered with the new ‘Easyfit’ silicone cosmesis – which won the award for best product innovation at the 2013 Limbless Association P&O awards. Leon was born with medical problems that resulted in the part amputation of his lower left leg at eight months old. After approximately 44 operations, a further part of his lower leg was amputated before Christmas last year. But after becoming the first child in the UK to be fitted with the prosthetic, he now has more suspension so he can play football
Leon Meal-Moss Picture credit: ©BNPS.co.uk
with his friends and brother. He plays for Bournemouth ‘Ability Counts’, the disability team. A spokesman for the company said: “Dorset Orthopaedic wish Leon all the best with his new prosthetic and are confident this latest technology will benefit him with his many running and football aspirations.”
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KIDS
ProCare line extended with MiniTrax launch DJO Global has extended its popular ProCare product line with the launch of MiniTrax.
Your new UK supplier for Piedro therapy footwear PIEDRO Ltd are the new UK based sister company to Piedro Verkooporganisatie in Holland and has been established to provide a first class product range, delivery service and excellent customer support for the supply of Piedro children and adult’s specialist therapy footwear. Piedro’s modern, comprehensive range of footwear meets a wide range of medical and therapeutic needs featuring five footwear construction styles – AFO, reverse lasted, stability, rehabilitation and
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multi-purpose, in sizes 15 to 46 and eight different widths. Our direct link with our head office and warehouse in Holland enables us to ship all stock item orders on the same day with delivery in 24-48 hours for a seamless and efficient delivery service. Piedro are excited about the new changes and look forward to work directly with our UK customers. To place an order call 0845 617 1976 or fax 0845 617 1977, alternatively email your order details to sales@piedro-uk.co.uk
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I APRIL/MAY 2014
MiniTrax is the only paediatric walking boot to feature child-friendly design elements that make wearing a boot less intimidating - and it provides ideal support for your smallest patients with mild to severe foot and ankle injuries. The MiniTrax is colour coded for fast and accurate size selection, with appealing animal images on the side of the boots to ensure kids will be keen to wear them. The lightweight design features anatomically shaped uprights to facilitate fit, whilst the low-profile rocker sole of the MiniTrax features a durable, non-slip tread tough enough to withstand the test of time. The boot is easy to apply and adjust with a simple strapping and liner system.
For more information, visit www.DJOglobal.co.uk, email ukorders@DJOglobal.com or telephone 0800 587 0857.
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David McConnell was born with Ohtahara Syndrome, a rare condition characterised by seizures and severe disability. He was one of the first in the country to be diagnosed with this rare condition and is now benefitting from new technology which allowed him to be fitted with a bespoke wheelchair seat designed around the shape of his body. Case study: Ottobock
New chair improves David’s life DAVID, 26, was born with Ohtahara Syndrome, a debilitating progressive neurological disorder and is incompatible with life. He has been confined to a wheelchair since birth. He suffers frequent seizures, has trouble feeding and poor skin development. David’s health and happiness is very much tied to the wheelchair he uses. His father Michael said: “I would do anything to ensure that David is well, comfortable and as happy as possible and for sufferers of Ohtahara Syndrome, much of this rests on the quality and design of the wheelchair. Posture is absolutely crucial to David’s development, feeding and comfort.” Custom seating is the only solution for people with complex shapes and needs. A moulded seat is designed to conform exactly, to the contours of a client’s body shape. Ottobock uses advanced technology to create a digital ‘image’ of a client’s seat shape.
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“The result of this chair on the quality of David’s life is beyond words.” Foam is then computer carved, to exact specifications – ensuring a perfect fit. The digital image can then be kept on file for further use. Michael added: “Ottobock seating engineers visited our home and assessed David’s needs. They covered joint movement and range, sitting balance, alignment and flexibility of the spinal column. “They also took further steps by looking at his vision, reflexes, eating needs, breathing needs and a host other factors that affect his positioning. The ideal posture was agreed and David was modelled within a moulding bag. “Using bespoke shape software, the seat was then fabricated by a complex carving machine and team of experts in Leeds.
David McConnell and his father Michael.
“The result of this chair on the quality of David’s life is beyond words. David has never been so happy or so healthy. He is unrecognisable from the boy he was two years ago. Everything about his life has improved. For a parent, this is
all we can ask as we look ahead to the future.” Custom seating can improve patient comfort and function, where standard seating equipment fails, by preventing further deterioration of physical deformities.
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Charity to drive forward plans to be nationally recognised for sport A CHARITY which supports amputees in the sporting arena has announced plans to drive forward its plans to become a nationally recognised sports organisation. Kiera Roche was the founder of LimbPower in November 2009 and has been combining the roles of chairman and CEO – but her roles have been formally separated in order to allow the growing organisation to focus on a longterm strategy. Trustee Cathy Booth has stepped in and taken over the role of chairman. Cathy said: “We are delighted that after the years of hard work we are now able to make this important development in our organisation which recognises the effort that has been put in, and allows us to focus on the direction in which we would like to progress. “Kiera will make an excellent CEO and we feel confident that she will
Michael Lewis
Gripping aid helps Michael make weight-lifting return Kiera Roche
continue to lead us in our bid to enhance the lives of as many amputees as possible.”
AN INJURED soldier has been able to return to the sport of weight-lifting thanks to using Active Hands gripping aid.
LimbPower has appointed a sports and fitness officer, Gemma Trotter, who will be the key contact for amputees wishing to access appropriate sports and activities.
Michael Lewis was serving as a section Commander in the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment when he was involved in a blast while under heavy fire.
Kiera added: “This is an important moment for LimbPower as we prepare to take our place on the national stage.
Extensive damage was done to his left arm and right leg – he suffered multiple fractures, nerve and muscle damage.
“This reorganisation allows me the freedom to focus, knowing that I am supported by a great team.”
Michael underwent surgery to reconstruct his arm and leg with skin, nerve and bone grafts. He has undertaken many months of
physiotherapy to learn how to use his arm and to walk again. But damage to his median nerve has resulted in lack of sensation in his hand and the muscular surgery means that his hand tires easily when gripping. The lack of sensation and weakness in his hand meant that he could not lift a kettle let alone a 40kg dumbbell but was introduced to the gripping aids when he was at Headly Court (Defense Medical Rehabilitation Unit). He said: “It gave me the ability to grip as well as having the confidence to hold a dumbbell above my head and even do pull ups when before my fingers would slip off the pull up bar.”
Strategy aims to help University awarded $6m social care understand grant to study ways to assistive technologies By Nicola Hyde A STRATEGY that aims to help the social care make more use of assistive technologies has been launched. The Skills for Care and Development (SfC&D) organisation has published ‘Technology to Care: A Workforce Learning Strategy to Embed Electronic Assistive Technology (eAT) in Social Care’. The strategy has received coinvestment from the UK Commission for Employment and Skills through the Employer Investment Fund and has been developed through wide consultation across the UK. The five-year UK-wide strategy helps employers and others equip the social care workforce to use eAT effectively – contributing to the independence, choice, and wellbeing of the individuals they support. Project manager Linda Currin said: “People who need social care should be able to enjoy and benefit from the same technology as the rest of us. There may also be more specific ways eAT can help them - should they wish it to do so. “Examples range from simple 16
emergency pull-cords to complex sensors built within interactive devices and connected via broadband. The social care workforce must become confident, skillful and knowledgeable about eAT, the contribution it can make and how best to support its use.” The Workforce Learning Strategy is supported by an Implementation Plan; eAT Knowledge and Skills Sets; and a toolkit of templates, checklists and video clips. The resources are aimed primarily at employers and managers but are also relevant to other audiences. Linda added: “It is very important that those working for manufacturers, suppliers and training providers also understand the practical and ethical aspects of supporting individuals to use eAT. For example, those installing new technology must be ready to acknowledge and address any fears about inappropriate use. The key is respecting each individual’s wishes and working with them.” The strategy also explores the integration of eAT into workforce policies, job descriptions and career development opportunities.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I APRIL/MAY 2014
restore hand movement SCIENTISTS at UCLA have been awarded a $6 million grant to study new ways to restore hand movement after paralysis. The National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering has awarded UCLA researchers Dr Daniel Lu and Dr Reggie Edgerton the fiveyear grant to explore new therapies for patients with spinal-cord injuries. The UCLA research will focus on restoring hand function to patients paralyzed from the neck down. Professor Lu said: “Spinal-cord injury typically strikes people in the prime of their lives, with nearly half between ages 16 and 30.
Dr Daniel Lu
between their bed and wheelchair."
“Currently there are no effective treatments for spinal-cord injury, and the resulting paralysis has been viewed as permanent. We are exploring ways to change that.
The most promising therapy uses electrical impulses to stimulate dormant pathways within the spinal cord, allowing the brain's previously unrecognised signals to reach past the injured area.
"Recovering the ability to use one's hands is a top priority for people with cervical spinal-cord injury. We aim to restore patients' independence by returning their ability to type on a keyboard, open doors and transfer themselves
The research team screens candidates by placing an electrode on the person's skin. If the electrical stimulation elicits a positive response, the patient may choose surgical implantation of the electrode under the skin near the spinal injury.
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sponsors podiatry
Charity equips falls Students launch patients to maintain month-long foot their independence care campaign A PIONEERING partnership service for frail and elderly patients who fall at home continues to go from strength to strength. The mobile service funded by NHS Hardwick and North Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Groups visited 152 patients from November to the end of February. Of those patients, 84 – or 55 per cent – did not have to go to hospital. The reduction in avoidable hospital admissions has saved more than £239,000 and, at that rate, the service will pay for itself twice over in its first year. Now, GPs referring patients to the service can also signpost them to national charity Remap which makes unique pieces of special equipment – free of charge – to help people with disabilities achieve much-desired independence in a chosen area of their life. Examples of bespoke equipment include walking frames, remote controlled wheelchairs and overchair tables to aid eating. Remap is made up of a national network of volunteers whose skills range from tailoring and carpentry to software and mechanical engineering. Dr Steve Lloyd, chair of NHS Hardwick CCG, said: “Remap will supplement our integrated team of highly-skilled paramedics, occupational therapists and physiotherapists supported by a consultant geriatrician. “We now have a truly holistic service that treats patients at
“Not only does the service provide rapid home treatment, it also reduces the risk of future falls ...” home, keeps them out of hospital and helps them to continue living independently.” The service is run day to day by Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust with East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust and Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. The partnership operates across the Hardwick area and in the Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire localities of North Derbyshire. It will be rolled out across the rest of North Derbyshire later this year, widening access to an innovative service that delivers care closer to home. Dr Richard Bull, deputy chair of NHS North Derbyshire CCG, added: “Not only does the service provide rapid home treatment, it also reduces the risk of future falls by advising patients and their carers on making changes around the house. In fact, every patient seen so far has had a home environment assessment carried out. 72 per cent of patients have been referred for after care from professionals including a GP, community physiotherapist or occupational therapist, podiatrist, social worker, district nurse or the area’s falls clinic.”
STUDENTS from the New College Durham School of Podiatry held a month-long campaign to educate the public about well-fitting footwear.
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The Footwear for February campaign was a health initiative designed by final year BSc (Hons) podiatry students as part of their Foundations of Practice module. The aim of the campaign was to highlight the effects that ill-fitting shoes can have on a person’s feet and to educate the public on how to choose appropriate footwear for their foot type. Posters and leaflets were designed by the students, and they spoke to patients about their footwear throughout the month at the New College Durham School of Podiatry clinics in Low Carrs and Bishop Auckland. Podiatry student Claire Gilpin said: “We were split into groups and asked to come up with an initiative that would have a positive effect in podiatry. One group came up with the Footwear for February campaign and the class as a whole wanted to put this idea into practice. “We generally assess each patient’s footwear as part of their routine treatment, but the Footwear for February campaign highlighted patient education for wearing suitable shoes. “Try taking your shoe off and draw around it on a piece of paper. Next, place your barefoot over the drawing and if your foot doesn’t fit inside the line you know your shoes are too small!” Fellow podiatry student Danielle
Moore added: “With this campaign we wanted to show that there is more to podiatry than just cutting nails. “Footwear is an important part of the patient education we provide so we decided that if we could give it more attention in a month, it could have a positive influence on our patients and also us as health professionals, to act as a reminder of how important good, well-fitting footwear is to foot health. We had a lot of interest from footwear companies including Clarks, Asics, DB shoes and also Reed Medical. “Our lecturer Cheryl Hodgson was very supportive in this initiative and has helped it to materialise.” The Podiatry degree at New College Durham helps students to understand how to assess, diagnose and treat people with problems of the foot, ankle and lower limbs. There are no tuition fees as the programme is funded by Higher Education North East (HENE) and students can also apply for a means tested bursary. New College Durham is one of only 12 institutions in the country that offer this degree.
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Prosthetic limb group pushes UK campaign
PRODUCT NEWS
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Research led products remove many issues RESEARCHERS investigating clinical implications of ill-fitting orthoses have shown that dermal contact with an ill-fitted cervical brace can cause skin lesions and affect patient compliance. Thus leading to the additional increased cost of then having to nurse pressure sores. The Multi Post Collar has been designed to remove any possible issues when sizing, because it is universally sized and will fit the majority of patient anatomies. Eliminating the additional cost associated with sizing errors and the need to change collars when patients become ambulatory. The Vista Collar already gives you the option of six height settings but the additional three adjustment points on the back panel and will allow the clinician to provide a near custom fit for every patient. The occipital panels pivot bilaterally and self adjust to cradle all head shapes for increased support whilst alleviating contact on occipital
Inspired by the needs of ICU nurses, the Vista ICU Back Panel is constructed of dual density foam that eliminates bed sheer during patient movement and repositioning. The first level of foam cradles the patient’s head for maximum pressure distribution, while the second firmer layer provides an added support and structure. Like all Aspen collar pads, the Vista ICU Back Panel is cotton-lined to wick moisture away from patient’s skin whilst providing same superior motion restriction as the standard Vista Back Panel. For further information please contact 01254 268788
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The task will involve two volunteers to drive a van full of limbs, 3,708 miles, from Leicestershire to Gambia.
Founder Tom Williams and a crew of
The charity also hopes to create a short film documentary highlighting the project in the hope that it will continue to grow.
The Jenx Ltd team.
New sales division forms restructure at manufacturer A MAJOR company restructure at one of the UK’s leading manufacturers has seen the addition of a new sales and distribution division.
Jenx Ltd – which has been manufacturing support equipment and furniture for children and adults with special postural needs for more than 30 years – now has the new division called Jiraffe which will enable the company to grow its distribution capacity, significantly improve distribution times, and allow the parent company to focus on research.
An adjustable spring mechanism creates a corrective force, holding the toe in a neutral position.
However, the brace can also be used pre-operatively to take advantage of
Charity Legs 4 Africa estimates more than 2,000 used prosthetic limbs are disposed of each year in the United Kingdom alone – but says those redundant limbs could plug the gap for people in need overseas.
For those patients who are at risk of occipital breakdown, due to extended periods lying supine Aspen have specifically developed the Vista® ICU Back Panel.
A DYNAMIC approach to Hallux Valgus has been revealed with the new Halluxsan brace from Brace Orthopaedic which offers a new approach in treating this often painful condition.
Halluxsan is routinely used by clinicians as a conservative treatment for moderate forms of Hallux Valgus.
volunteers aim to supply and transport 200 limbs to the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital in The Gambia.
midline; limiting pressure points and heat build up. The innovative design permits greater visibility to the occipital region enhancing the ability to inspect troublesome skin.
Brace offers a dynamic approach to condition
The contracted tissues are stretched, helping reduce pain and deterioration of the condition.
A GROUP which collects used prosthetic limbs to send to people in need in Africa is pushing forward with a UK awareness campaign.
this dynamic stretch of the soft tissue and then again post-operatively to protect the surgical result.
The company, based in Hillsborough, Sheffield, employs more than 70 staff at its headquarters, and is led by founders Clive and Catherine Jenkins.
The brace comes simply in left and right options, but Halluxsan is now also available in two new colours, Pink and Grey.
Catherine said: “The launch of Jiraffe is extremely exciting news for the company and our customers. It provides us with the perfect
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES I APRIL/MAY 2014
springboard to really push on and achieve significant growth over the coming years.
“The development of Jiraffe came as we recognised the need to separate our manufacturing capabilities from our sales. Previously it was a challenge to clearly define what we were doing well and where we needed to improve. Jiraffe now gives us that capacity – and much more besides. “One of the major changes will be the ability to deliver stock fully assembled rather than in a modular format – which we’ll be doing free of charge for a period of time. “Our decision to begin delivering products fully assembled has been based on feedback from our customers and we’re delighted to be able to respond to this feedback and improve the overall experience for our customers.”
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