Amputee Society
Canterbury & Westland Inc
Article Archive
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- New heights elevating wheelchair system - read article »
We would like to introduce you to the New Heights Elevating Wheelchair System we manufacture, in case you are not already aware of it.
Until now, people and society have gone to great length and expense in order to try and accommodate the needs of wheelchair users, and although they have been successful in providing wheelchair access into most places, it has been impossible to provide adequate function once they were there, as to do so would mean changing everything so that it would not work for anyone else. Our solution was to design a wheelchair system that would provide full access and function to the user in a standard environment, instead of trying to adapt the environment to the wheelchair, as that seemed to make a lot more sense. These units are high end, high performance wheelchairs, equivalent in quality to the best technology coming out of Europe at the present time, with the addition of a very special and unique function. They offer by far the highest seat elevation of anything on the market, and will elevate the user to the height of a person standing, and a little beyond, and stop anywhere in between, providing full height access to anything that anyone else can get to, eliminating the problem of the person being stuck at one level and not being able to access and do things in environments that were designed for people who could stand.
Among some of the benefits offered by the System are the following:
- The unique elevating function provided by these units provides complete and total access in any standard environment, enabling the user to get to and do pretty much anything that anyone else can.
- The units also feature a low end seat height of 18", which will allow the user to comfortably sit at any desk or table and is also low enough that most can bend over and pick things up from the floor.
- Complete independence for most users, as they are fully functional wherever they are, and no longer have to wait for assistance from people to get to things that are out of reach from a standard wheelchair.
- The units provide a huge cost saving, as they completely eliminate the need for costly home renovations to accommodate the limited height access from a standard wheelchair, which cost many times the price of one of our units, and unlike the home adaptations, they provide complete access to everything outside of the home as well. (We've actually had clients who had spent upwards of $ 60,000.00 adapting their homes to a conventional wheelchair, who bought one of our units, found they were more functional in a standard environment, sold the adapted home and bought a standard one instead, so that sort of speaks for itself).
- The units offer the psychological benefit of being able to come up to eye level when interacting with others, and not always being stuck at a low level and having to look up. In fact with the average height woman topping out at a head high of about 6'2" in one of these, and the average height man 6'6", they can look down on everyone else if they wish to.
- The units open up a wide range of new employment opportunities for the wheelchair user, as positions which were previously unavailable to them because of height and access restrictions are not anymore. We have had state "Assistive Technology Services" purchasing these units and issuing them to clients in order to enable them to return to work which they have done very successfully as well.
- The units are designed as high performance wheelchairs. They handle beautifully and easily, and incorporate almost twice the horsepower, while being half the weight of many of the typical standard power chairs on the market, so there is always more than adequate power for climbing ramps, traveling on soft surfaces, etc.. They are also very compact, being 24" nut to nut on the drive wheels, allowing easy access through any standard doorway, and allowing the user to get into many more places than is possible with some of the larger chairs on the market.
- The units incorporate an advanced ergonomic design along with appropriate seat adjustments to provide the greatest comfort for the user. In fact we've had clients reporting that the seating on our standard model chairs, is the only thing they can sit in for more than a couple of hours without becoming sore.
- Each unit is custom manufactured for each individual user, and we have a wide range, sizes, colors and standard accessories available that can be used to customize the chair so their specific requirements. Where these are not sufficient, we are capable of custom manufacturing special options according to their specific needs.
- Lastly, we do not do preprogrammed obsolescence here, and expect to sell only one wheelchair to one customer. The units are backed by a 10 year manufacturer's warranty, and we have had them out there for longer than that, with users subjecting them to hard and constant use, and they are all still working without any problems. There is also no reason to expect that each unit will not last for the rest of the users lifetime as well, as we took the greatest care possible in designing them not to wear out and break down, and also designed them to be easily maintained by the user, a friend or family member themselves, should any component ever need replacing. They cost about twice as much ($ 15,988.00 for the standard model power chair) as a standard low end wheelchair with a one or two year warranty on the working components, but in the long run they provide a huge cost saving many times the initial price of the wheelchair, over purchasing the lower end units that have to be replaced every few years, and constantly be repaired in between.
You can find full information and specifications on all of the units and accessories in the system on our website at :
We are sending this promotion to individuals and organizations whom we expect may be involved in some related field of healthcare or disabilty accommodations, in the hopes of making more people aware of the existence of he product and keeping the project alive in spite of this damn recession our banks have created for us.
For what these units do, and the independence and function they provide to their users, they should become the standard in wheelchair technology, if enough of the market can be made aware of them. Hopefully some of you will have clients whom the technology can benefit, and if not, we would very much appreciate it if you would take the time to forward this information to anyone you know for whom it would be useful.
If you are interested in the product line and would like further information, please don't hesitate to contact me. I will very much look forward to answering any questions you may have and hope that the product can be of great benefit to some of your clients, as it has to many others already. Although its unlikely that these units will ever be covered by any federal program, they have already been paid for by most of the private insurance companies, who will do so based on a doctor's prescription, and as stated earlier, they have been purchased for people by various state agencies as well, so they should be obtainable for most.
Best Regards & thanks;
David K. Brown
BROMAC ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
- The amputation help and resource guide - read article »
This is an informative page about amputation with some interesting links.
- Library services - read article »
Christchurch City Library Services Housebound Services.
If you are unable to visit your local library because of illness or disability, they can provide a door-to-door library service for you. A medical certificate may be required. A friend or relative can select, deliver and return items on your behalf. Staff at your library may be able to select items for you, ready for your friend or relative to collect. If you have no-one available, a Red Cross courier can select and deliver items for you. Storyline Talking Book Service This service is for readers with a visual or physical disability. Fiction and non-fiction books recorded on tape. A Storyline catalogue in large print to help you to select your tapes. Regular supply on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Available at all Libraries Large Print - fiction and non-fiction books for those unable to read normal print easily Talking Books - fiction and non-fiction books recorded on tape. Captioned Videos - Videos with sub titles for people with a hearing disability (held at the Central Library but available to all libraries on request). For further information please contact Outreach & Special Needs Ph: 389 0753 or ask at your local library.
General
- Driving Courses for Older People Safe with Age - read article »
These driving courses, which are held throughout the year are fun, low key and focus on assisting people to regain confidence in driving and knowing the current road rules. They are now being held in a variety of venues in and around Christchurch. Some of these venues are easier to access and find parking ie.
- Beckenham Service Centre near the Cashmere Club has easily accessible & plentiful parking.
- Wainoni Methodist Church opposite Porrit Park on Avonside Drive has adequate parking.
- Other venues where parking access may be more difficult include:
- St Matthews on Cranford Street
- Ilam Prestbyterian Church & St Stephens, both of which have about 10car parking in the grounds.
For further information please ring Susan Ph: 332 2722.
- Falls Prevention Service - ACC - read article »
The Falls prevention Service programme is funded by ACC covers Christchurch and North Canterbury. The service is for older more frail people and it is delivered one on one in the person's own home.
There is a team of 3 registered nurses who have received training from a physiotherapist. The physiotherapist will oversee the programme. Telephone contact is also provided for ongoing support.
- Keeping up with technology - read article »
Technology is a part of our everyday life and the rapid changes that occur are often hard to keep up with. Take for example a cell phone, which now has so many functions that many of us are daunted by just opening the instruction manual. Prosthetics is also benefiting from changes in technology, however at a lesser pace. There are only a few large manufacturers and they put large amounts of money into research and development. The benefits take time to hit the market place and are often as a limited release in set countries to gauge the reaction and ensure reliability. All the major manufacturers produce a large and often complex range of products that as prosthetists we need to keep up to date with. We are very lucky that manufacturers run workshops for us in New Zealand, which helps us to evaluate new products on the market and understand how to use these products correctly. Obviously we cannot use every product, as an example there are around 200 prosthetic knees on the market. With this in mind we have to evaluate carefully what we will and will not use, taking into consideration function, reliability, availability and cost. To make a mistake with components i.e. choosing an unreliable part can be very costly to the New Zealand taxpayer and we are always very conscious of getting value for money.
Every few years there are major congresses held which gives us an opportunity to see the best the world has to offer and the New Zealand Artificial Limb Board sends a number of its staff to these congresses. Many of the manufacturers use these as a launching platform for new products. Along with the release they run workshops to give more in depth information on the products to help us in making clinical decisions for component choice.
The internet is another tool in our decision making process, it has given all of us unprecedented access to information. The manufacturers have taken advantage of this to promote products to the clinician and amputee alike. This has meant the clinician has to be very well informed on products to give sound advice if queried by you as the consumer. As mentioned earlier it is not possible to support every product that is on the market and when we decide on appropriate components we are certainly not looking at the cheapest or the most expensive as we are aware of our budgetary limitations. We are always looking for products that can enhance an amputee's life style and fit into our criteria of function, availability, reliability and cost.
If you come across products on the internet, by all means please discuss this with your prosthetist, he/she is the expert and will give you sound advice based on their knowledge and our criteria.
Graham Flanagan
Centre Manager/Clinical Prosthetist - Library services - read article »
Christchurch City Library Services Housebound Services.
If you are unable to visit your local library because of illness or disability, they can provide a door-to-door library service for you. A medical certificate may be required. A friend or relative can select, deliver and return items on your behalf. Staff at your library may be able to select items for you, ready for your friend or relative to collect. If you have no-one available, a Red Cross courier can select and deliver items for you. Storyline Talking Book Service This service is for readers with a visual or physical disability. Fiction and non-fiction books recorded on tape. A Storyline catalogue in large print to help you to select your tapes. Regular supply on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Available at all Libraries Large Print - fiction and non-fiction books for those unable to read normal print easily Talking Books - fiction and non-fiction books recorded on tape. Captioned Videos - Videos with sub titles for people with a hearing disability (held at the Central Library but available to all libraries on request). For further information please contact Outreach & Special Needs Ph: 389 0753 or ask at your local library.
- Lifestyle Choices Lower Risk of Death In Elderly - read article »
A series of scientific reports published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, indicate that by following a Mediterranean diet i.e. focusing on vegetables, fruits, seafood, getting regular exercise, consuming moderate amounts of alcohol and not smoking, people aged between 70 to 90 will lower the risk of death in the next 10 years by 65%.Moderate alcohol consumption is often defined as up to 30grams a day or about two drinks.
One study showed that elderly men who walk 2 or more miles a day had only 1/5th the risk of developing dementia compared with those who walked less that a quarter of a mile a day. Women aged 70 and older who regularly exercised reduced their risk of cognitive decline by 20%.
One study showed that after 2 years on the Mediterranean diet 55% of patients with metabolic syndrome no longer showed symptoms of the syndrome.
Researchers found that people on the Mediterranean diet experienced significant decreases in weight, blood pressure, glucose, insulin and total cholesterol and triglycerides and they had a significant increase in the HDL so called good cholesterol. The 10year study of the Mediterranean diet's effect on longevity involved 1,507 men and 832 women ages 70 - 90 in 11 European countries. It found that each of the four lifestyle choices independently reduced the risk of death from all causes in the next 10 years. It also found that those people who followed all four lifestyle changes lowered their risk of death from stroke, heart disease, cancer and other common killers by 65% compared with those people who only followed three (55%) or two (38%).
- Maintaining independence - read article »
Maintaining independence is one of the greatest challenges facing amputees. The following are some of the things which impact on our ability to remain independent:
- Acceptance of our altered circumstances and remaining positive.
- Having sufficient sleep and adequate pain relief.
- Being mobile.
- Keeping fit.
- Being motivated to get out and about and be an effective, valued member of the community.
- Accessing good services, which meet our needs.
Acceptance and remaining positive
The most important step that an individual takes is accepting what has occurred. You need to accept and come to terms with what has happened and how it may have altered or affected your life. Acceptance of what has happened then frees you up to look at all the options and allows you to move forward in a positive frame of mind. Support of family & friends and the compassionate competent care of health professionals can facilitate this process.
Pain Relief & Sleep
Sleep is a great healer. A good sleep means that you are able to cope more effectively during the day. There are many factors, which affect sleep. Positioning is one of these, as often people find that the side of amputation is the side, which they generally sleep on, so habits of a lifetime need changing and this takes both time and perseverance. Just the simple act of rolling over in bed may take a considerable amount of manoeuvring initially until you devise the most effective comfortable way to do this. Pain management/relief is central to being able to relax sufficiently and sleep. Generally pain relief is well managed in the acute hospital setting and often people are reluctant to seek medical treatment, on discharge, when pain persists whether it is limb or phantom pain. In the 4 main centres there are Pain Management Centres, which provide specialised assessment and treatment of this complex issue. There is a range of treatment options available including clinical reassessment to ensure that surgical intervention would not improve the situation eg. in the event of a neuroma. Other options may include medication, massaging the effected limb, TENS (transcutaneous nerve stimulation) and acupuncture. To be able to take control of your pain places you back in charge of your life again. It is worth it!
Being Mobile
Many of us have an independent streak, which we fiercely protect. When something like this affects your life, for a time you may be reliant on others in order to do what you want to do. If you are a new amputee, persevering with your physio exercises will improve your flexibility, strength, balance and co-ordination. You may require a walking aid such as a frame, crutches or walking stick to move around safely. Some amputees find they need to use a wheelchair for part of the day. A well fitting prosthesis is absolutely essential in maintaining function. If you cannot use your prosthesis, due to pain, pressure or skin problems, see your prosthetist immediately so that your mobility isn't compromised. Whatever your level of mobility, keeping mobile is the key to getting fit. This in turn improves our health and sense of wellbeing.
Amputee Visitor
Being visited by another amputee who was the same age & gender, and level of amputation can be an extremely positive experience. When you see someone in a similar position working fulltime and getting on with life it provides a wonderful feeling of hope and knowledge that you are able to achieve. The need for information regarding what to expect is paramount and it is good to be able to share with someone who understands what is happening to you.
Prosthetists
Suddenly life becomes full of prosthetists and limb fittings. The Prosthetist who is willing to take the time and patience to be positive, encouraging and motivational provides such an excellent foundation for the rehabilitation process When the knocks come and they will, the individual is better able to cope with them and know that everything is being done which can be done. Prosthetists have some amazing achievements when you think that they are attempting to match nature. Once fitted with a limb, the fit, function and aesthetics of that limb are the key to success in leading a normal life.
Supportive & Well Informed Health Professionals
This is the phase when you begin dealing with the reality of events. The impact of learning to use an artificial limb and/or adjusting to altered mobility. Physiotherapists play an important role in the rehabilitative process particularly with lower limb amputees, through assessment, exercise regimes- assisting with the whole mobility process from;
- assessing the strength and range of movement of the residual limb, other limbs and trunk.
- developing an exercise regime whereby the individual is able to optimise their functioning
- providing walking aids to assist the rehabilitation process
- assisting people to learn to effectively walk with their artificial limb.
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Occupational Therapists provide:
- Assessment of ADLs (activities of daily living) and advice on appropriate aids.
- Home alterations, rails, bath and toilet seats etc
- Back to work assessments through ACC
- Driving assessments
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Your Doctor
Your GP is an important part if your rehab team. He/She is often your first port if call when things go wrong. You may need his/her advise on healing, skin problems, medication and referrals to appropriate specialists providers.
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Podiatrist
For those amputees who have lost their limb due to vascular problems, it is absolutely essential to look after the remaining limb well. Changes in sensation often means that you can unknowingly damage your skin when cutting the toe nails. It is very important that you consult a podiatrist for ongoing treatment and foot maintenance.
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Psychologists
In the acute stages, Psychologists have an important role in helping some amputees come to terms with their limb loss and how it impacts on them and their family and friends. Some amputees are referred to a psychologist when they are in hospital. Once discharged from hospital, amputees can access a psychologist through their GP. Costs vary for these services, so make enquiries prior to your first appointment.
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Pain Management Clinics
Pain management clinic are staffed by specialist doctors, psychologists, physios and OTs who provide an interdisciplinary approach to managing pain.
- Mini Bus Outings - read article »
Age Concern Canterbury work with older people to change their lives for the better. The Minibus Outings Service addresses the issue of loneliness. The criteria for referral is that you are socially isolated, or cannot use public transport or do not drive a car. The van used does not have a wheelchair hoist. A volunteer driver collects passengers between 1 and 1.30pm and takes them for a leisurely drive and on to a volunteer host for afternoon tea. Afterwards you are returned home at approximately 4.30pm. There is no charge for afternoon tea but a minimum donation of $5.00 to Age Concern Canterbury would be appreciated.
You can contact the Co-ordinator by ringing (03) 366 0903. Your details will be recorded and when the minibus outing is being organised for your area you will be contacted.
- Our people - read article »
By Lorraine Wyse (Leader of the Party)
In 1941 we formed a group called Victory Seven to sing in harmony and entertain at all service camps around Canterbury (Burnham, Addington, Weedons, Wigram, Harewood, Godley Head). Victory Seven consisted of six young girls and one boy. Later we expanded into a concert party with the addition of a tap dancer, a violinist, a musical saw player, an accordion band, a skipping rope dancer, comedy recitations, female impersonators and other singers.
We also travelled to Hamner Hospital and Burwood Hospital Burns unit, where servicemen were recuperating and hospital ships went as far as Westerfield Army Camp. It was at Westerfield when we were performing Whispering Grass in flimsy see through green dresses we asked for the lights to be very low. After applauding and lots of whistles from the soldiers, the soldier on the lights turned them on full, much to the embarrassment of the girls and appreciation of the men.
The army would send an army truck to wait outside the Regent Theatre in the square and we would pile in for our journey. The worst trips were to Godley Head as there was no proper road back then. However there was much laughter and lots of singing - we did most of our practice in the back of a truck. We did meet on Sunday mornings in a hall to work out the choreography for our full stage presentations which consisted of a group of songs of similar character, the full company with stage settings, borrowed mostly from Ballantynes window dressers. Costumes etc were made by the girls themselves, or their mothers.
We used to arrange Sunday night fund raising charities with concerts at the Civic Theatre and sold bonus bonds from the back of a truck in Cathedral Square, where a microphone was rigged up for us to perform.
No cars to speak of in those days so we all rode bicycles into town, parked our bikes for three pence and biked home often late at night in the cold and wet weather. But we enjoyed the companionship, and the few of us who are still alive have retained the friendship to this day.
We all kept in contact after the war, even to the extent of catering for our childrens weddings, 21st etc. No drinking, no drugs but we had the best of all times growing up and making wonderful lifetime friends.
- Outward Bound - No Limits - read article »
No Limits is an Outward Bound Course which is held in association with CCS and the Halberg Trust for 17 - 27year olds with and without disabilities. It is an 8 day course giving 7 young people who have a disability and 7 who don't an opportunity to share common ground.
Outward Bound Courses offer many challenges to individuals. Unique to the No Limits Course is the challenge of working closely in a group of young people with a range of abilities. Participants will be involved in:
- Physical outdoor activities
- Experiencing new mental, physical, emotional and social challenges
- Working as a team to problem solve and overcome barriers
- Participating in group discussions where you will reflect on achievements
- Exploring and develop relationships.
Common Outcomes
Common outcomes of the course are improved self esteem, self confidence and communication skills, improved tolerance for difference and ability to relate to a wide range of people. Final date for applications is 8th December for the course commencing 2nd February 2005. Apply by phoning Margaret Woods on 0800 65 44 22 or email info@outwardbound.co.nz
Consideration is given to course safety and group cohesiveness when screening applicants.
- Welfare Fund - supporting members - read article »
The Amputee Society has a small discretionary Welfare Fund, which is used to support members who are experiencing difficulties with accessing equipment for everyday living requirements.
Limited amounts of money may be provided to support people to maintain their independence.
Sport
- Disabled Snowsports - read article »
Disabled Snowsports NZ (DSNZ) is a national charitable organisation that helps to remove participation barriers and encourages people with physical or intellectual disabilities to get involved in Snowsports.
Support includes promotion, adaptive training for instructors and volunteers, fundraising for new equipment and hosting national fun and competitive events.
Joining DSNZ has never been easier. Membership gives the people with disabilities a voice in the snowsports industry. Importantly a large membership base improves their chances of accessing funding for better resources, events, training and facilities.
Refer to link page for more information on Disabled Skiing New Zealand
- Martial Arts - Daryl Humberstone - read article »
Hi I was involved in an automotive accident when I was 19 and subsequently had a below knee amputation. I started training in Martial Arts a few years later and have now been training for 10 years under Master Chan of Chan's Martial Arts International. I have achieved the rank of 1st degree black belt which took me 6 years. During the grueling grading there was no exception made for me and I had to everything everybody else did, including running, jumping and lots of other activities.
My life has been greatly improved by Martial Arts and I now teach as an Instructor for Chan's Martial Arts at Papanui High School. I have completed various full contact competitions at black belt level, including my own style and Olympic Tae Kwon Do. I am also an active power lifter. I received a gold medal at the New Zealand National Paralympic Multi-Sport Championship 2003.
Health
- Action Required - read article »
If at any time you are unable to wear your artificial limb for a prolonged period ie any longer than 2 days, it is important that you contact the Limb Centre for advice.
At times when not wearing an artificial limb the residual limb may well swell and it is difficult to comfortably fit an artificial limb when this occurs. The Limb Centre will be able to advise you on how swelling can best be minimised and may also be able to provide bandages or stump shrinkers to enable this to occur.
- Health - Hydration & Heat - read article »
Water is lost from the body through breathing, through the skin as sweat/perspiration as well as urine. When the weather is hot or during intense periods of physical activity this water loss increases. It is important therefore to ensure that throughout summer we have an adequate fluid intake to prevent the onset of dehydration. A rule of thumb is 2 + litres (2500mls) a day, which is about 6 10 large mugs/glasses (250mls) of fluid daily and more in hotter weather. Remember things like jelly, runny custard, fruit juice ice blocks on sticks, milk shakes, milo, or in colder weather soup are all fluids and therefore increase fluid intake.
- Phantom Pain Relief - read article »
There are an increasing number of ways of fighting Phantom Pain. More often than not medications are the first line of management. It is important also, to consider both traditional and non - traditional methods of pain relief. Physical treatment may include massaging, touching or rubbing the painful area to relax the muscles and stimulate the nerves. Acupressure and acupuncture, both traditional Chinese techniques may be used to block the pain nerve impulses or energy flow to the brain. Acupressure is the application of pressure to certain special points in the body, whilst acupuncture uses fine needles inserted into certain parts of the body to create a similar effect. Magnet therapy is another non - traditional therapy, which places magnets over the affected area which are said to improve blood flow and thus decrease phantom pain. Medications may include:
- Narcotics - which work on nerve centres and the brain. These medications work fast and wear off quickly and are often used immediately following surgery to relieve pain. There is an inherent risk of physical addiction in longer term use of these medications.
- Anti - seizure medication - These can be effective in calming excitable nerves within the residual limb. Some people report that they have minimized the number of episodes of phantom pain.
- Anti inflammatory medications - These reduce the inflammation at the site of the injury and so may indirectly have a role in treating phantom pain.
- Anti depressant medications - Some of these medications are also used to treat chronic pain. There are a range of side effects.
- Second Opinion - read article »
Limb fitting is a complex process as health professionals are attempting to replace the mobility of nature. The goal of every fitting is a comfortable socket and a good functioning prosthesis. The fit is critical and impacts on all other aspects of mobility. Although both qualified and skilled, there are times when seemingly insurmountable issues arise and a second opinion may prove beneficial to both the amputee and prosthetist.
The New Zealand Limb Board supports the philosophy of a second opinion. The old adage of 'two heads are better than one' may well help to resolve those issues of concern and improve the quality of life of the individual. The ultimate goal is that amputees are able to independently participate in the communities in which they live.
- Self-Esteem: Isolation, Alienation, and Loneliness - read article »
by Ellen Winchell, PhD
Following my initial trauma and amputation, I often felt alone. Nobody else could have known what I was going through as I struggled to stay alive; no one else could have experienced the myriad of changes wrought by my amputation.
No one could have gone through my surgeries or the gruelling physical therapy sessions for me. No one could have relearned to walk for me, or make the emotional adjustments that I needed to get on with my life. Despite the fact that I was blessed with a loving family and friends who rooted for me and encouraged me, I felt isolated, burdened, and very much alone.
These feelings of isolation cause you to feel cut off from fellow human beings and those who care for you. Help yourself through this period of isolation by doing the following:
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Recognise destructive self-talk.
What are you telling yourself about the way things are that is causing you to feel alienated from others? You may, for example, be distorting reality-making things worse than they really are. Correct yourself, then replace the negative self-talk with more positive thoughts and encouragement.
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Recognise your human need for connection with others and reach out.
Examine what you feel you are lacking friendship, someone to care about you, intimacy, etc. Let your friends and family know what it is you need. Spend time with loved ones and those who care for you. Even if they do not know exactly what you are experiencing, their love and caring should nurture your spirit.
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Join an amputee support group.
The people in such groups can truly empathise with you. Contact with others who have limb loss can greatly decrease your feelings of isolation and provide invaluable support.
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Do what nurtures you.
You know what best soothes your soul. Stay active. Laugh. Play. Get plenty of rest. Do something to contribute to others. Get support through professional counselling, if necessary.
While it is true that no one can step inside you and experience exactly what you are going through following the trauma of amputation, you need not feel alone. By opening yourself to the empathy and compassion of others, you will feel nurtured during this difficult time. So reach out to others, and allow them to reach out to you.
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- Skin Care - read article »
One of the challenges of being an amputee is learning how to maintain skin integrity. In other words learning how to look after your skin in all conditions. Some people have few such problems whilst others seem continually challenged. Most people, through trial and error develop both preventative measures and treatment, which suits them. These thoughts may be useful for those of you who are reasonably new amputees. There are many causes for skin breakdown. The following is not a complete list but some of the more common causes.
- A poorly fitting limb
- Heat and perspiration
- Loss or gain in weight affecting the fit of a limb
- Underlying debilitating condition eg. diabetes, peripheral vascular disease etc
- The aging process where the skin is not as elastic and takes a while to heal
- Abrasions through injury
What can you do about it?
Problems with skin on the residual limb can have quite an impact on mobility for some people, particularly if you need to take the limb off for any period of time. The following are some thoughts, which focus on how to retain skin integrity.
- A critical aspect is ensuring that the limb you have fits well. If you are suffering from reddened areas and/or skin breakdowns an important first step is to visit your Prosthetist who can assess whether the skin breakdown is related to the fit of the limb. Many skin problems are able to be successfully resolved at this stage.
- You may need to leave your limb off for a while to allow the area time to heal.
- Ensuring that your residual limb is clean and dry. This is more a challenge when involved in sport or in hot weather. Taking a wet and dry towel and the powders and potions you usually use with you when you are involved in this activity so that you are able to take your limb off to wash and dry it, is important.
- Applying parantal powder to the residual limb to reduce the perspiration. In New Zealand this is free from the Limb Centres.
- Taking additional precautions eg. when you know that you may at risk to skin breakdown through an activity, apply a protective pad over the area which is most likely to be affected eg. blister block to prevent this occurring. In NZ these can be bought from the supermarket or chemist.
- If skin breakdowns persist for no apparent reason, another avenue, which could be explored is to be seen by a Dermatologist (skin specialist). There may be some underlying condition which is causing the skin breakdowns and needs to be treated.
- Tea Tree oil has been found to be effective for small superficial breaks in the skin which you may be reluctant to cover. It has antifungal and disinfectant qualities, which facilitates healing.
- There is also a range of skin preparations, which sports people use to prevent chaffing and some of these may be beneficial. It is important to first trial a small amount of any untried skin product on your skin (not on your residual limb) and leave it for a day or two to see whether you have any reaction to it. If there is a skin reaction no further applications should be made.
- What Is Osteopathy? - read article »
Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine that diagnoses and treats damaged parts of the body such as muscles, ligaments, nerves and joints.
There are a number of types of osteopathic treatment, from very gentle cranial techniques through to the more physical manipulative techniques.
Osteopaths assess the musculoskeletal function of the body. Often when there is a loss of function in the musculoskeletal system pain, stiffness and reduced movement may occur, (an example of this is a whiplash injury to the neck or a strain of the lower back). In this situation an Osteopath would use a variety of techniques to encourage normal movement and reduce pain.
When a patient loses a limb, either due to trauma or disease, their musculoskeletal system has to adapt to a new way of functioning. Patients can experience pain and discomfort in a wide range of areas of the body. Osteopathic treatment during and after this process, can help reduce pain, stiffness and discomfort. The Osteopathic approach is one that works within the limits of the patient whist aiming to improve their function and physical comfort. Osteopathic treatments are often relaxing and not usually painful.
Kindly forwarded by Emma Fairs and Sarah Wisson ,Felicia House Clinic, Opawa, Christchurch. Both are Registered Osteopaths and ACC accredited.
Travel
- Hire Equipment for Travel - read article »
Many people are well set up at home and have the sort of equipment they require to meet their activities of daily living and maintain their independence. When planning holidays the desire is to travel as easily and lightly as possible. The WEKA Website www.weka.net.nz now has a database which lists the equipment available. This includes mobility and toileting aids, beds, lift chairs and hoists. Located under the main heading 'Living with Disability' the hire equipment database is found under the 'Equipment' page.
Volunteers at Disability Information Centres around New Zealand provide a personal service for people without web access.
Christchurch base:
314 Worchester Street
Linwood
Christchurch
Ph: 366 6189West Coast:
The Albert Street Mall
25 Albert Street
Greymouth
Ph: 03 768 4600 - Travel - read article »
Talking to colleagues about overseas travel bought up the following interesting observations.
- It is worthwhile having your current limb serviced (In NZ by the Artificial Limb Centre) prior to going overseas to ensure that it is in the best possible condition.
- Leaving a spare limb (if you have one) at home already packaged so that it is able to be couriered to you in the event of a significant malfunction with your current limb.
- If a New Zealander - taking your disability sign with you for ease of parking in crowded areas. It is an internationally recognised sign although does not have jurisdiction countries other than NZ.
- Hiring a light weight, easily collapsible & transportable wheelchair made life a lot easier and less tiring and provided access to a far greater range of sights and experiences, more efficiently, for a double amputee (who generally walks). In some European countries a person in a wheelchair goes to the front of any queue.
- Using collapsible crutches (elbow or full), able to be placed in a suitcase, is ideal for those of you who rely on crutches for mobility at any stage.
- Taking an adequate supply of your normal lotions and potions so that you are not reliant in accessing them in a country whose language/culture may be different.
- Taking plenty of stump socks to allow frequent changes particularly in hot weather when perspiration can quickly irritate the skin.
- Taking adequate supplies of prantal powder to be applied and massaged into the residual limb at regular intervals to reduce perspiration. Always ensure that the limb is clean and dry prior to application of this to obtain maximum benefit.
- Arranging an aisle seat if you require more space for your lower limb prosthesis.
- Warning the airport security prior to going through the metal detector that your artificial limb will probably trigger the alarms.
- Wearing firm support stockings on the lower limb/s reduces the usual swollen ankles experienced on long flights by many people and means that at the end of the flight shoe/s are not tight, making initial mobility much more comfortable (in NZ Jobst stockings, are an example of this). It is important that you are measured to ensure the correct size and therefore obtain maximum benefit.
- Carrying with you at all times, items, which enable you to remove and replace your artificial limb to ensure ongoing comfort (particularly in the heat).
- Being aware that excessive perspiration can have a dramatic effect on your skin. I recently experienced this whilst travelling. Big cherry red patches covered my residual limb and it felt quite hard. Careful washing and drying, limiting exercise and regular applications of prantal powder eased this within a couple of days.
Research
- Amputation - MossRehab ResourceNet - read article »
It is estimated that there are 350,000 amputees living in the United States, with approximately 135,000 new amputations occurring each year. The number of amputees worldwide is not currently tracked by any organization. In the United states the most common causes of amputation of the lower extremity are disease (70%), trauma (22%) congenital or birth defects (4%) and tumors (4%). Upper extremity amputation is usually due to trauma or birth defect with disease not as great of a contributing factor. The causes of amputation vary greatly from country to country. In countries with a recent history of warfare and civil unrest, the amputation due to trauma and landmine accidents is much greater.
More » www.mossresourcenet.org
- Diabetes & Stem Cell Research - read article »
A growing number of New Zealanders are being diagnosed with Diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is of particular concern as studies are showing that there need be no familial history or cultural predisposition to diabetes. Diabetes along with circulatory conditions make up a major cause of amputation in NZ.
Stem cell research is progressing rapidly. It is showing researchers how an organism develops from a single cell and how damaged cells are able to be replaced by healthy ones. Stem cells are those cells, which are unspecialised and capable of renewing themselves through cell division. From experiments to date it has been shown that these unspecialised stem cells may, given certain conditions develop into cells with special functions eg. insulin producing pancreatic cells. Researchers consider that this exciting area of research may lead to the possibility of cells being transplanted into people as a form of treatment for conditions such as diabetes.
- Education Resources - read article »
There are currently a few resources, which assist an amputee to adjust to loss of a limb. The Amputee Federation of New Zealand recently purchased a video entitled 'Coping with loss'. This video will be available later this year.
- Osseo integrated prosthesis - read article »
Osseo-integration is the technique of fixing an external object to bone and then connecting a prosthesis to the protruding abutment, so relieving the need for a prosthetic socket. This has been used successfully in dentistry since 1965, however it took Professor Banemark from Sweden to bring it to prosthetics in the mid 1990's.
The technique has only been developed for above knee amputees and to date, only in small numbers at three hospitals in the world. The technique of osseo-integration is in two main parts with two operations 6 months apart. The first operation involves inserting a titanium fixture inside the femur bone and then waiting the six months for bone to form around the fixture so locking it into place. During this time the patient can still wear a standard prosthesis. The second operation involves screwing a titanium abutment into the fixture inside the femur. This abutment sticks through the skin and is the device used for locking onto the prosthesis. 6 weeks following the second operation a short training device is attached to the abutment to allow the patient to weight bear through the bone.
The training period is up to 3 months before full weight bearing can be taken through the bone. In the early stages of the development of this technique it was found that infection would get into the area of skin surrounding the abutment, however this has now been largely managed through good medical intervention. To date very few have been done around the world, e.g. in England 11 patients have had the procedure done since 1997 and 9 are still using the system. This system requires large amounts of medial and rehabilitation input from staff and the patient and this has been a limiting factor as this procedure is not covered by health plans and patients have had to pay for it themselves. One other draw back to the system is falling and to date in the UK, 5 of the 11 patients have had falls and have had to have surgery to replace the device in the bone or the titanium abutment.
This system certainly has its advantages with the removal of the socket so causing less skin irritations and not having to have various suspensions systems. We will look forward to the future to see if this technique becomes mainstream.
Graham Flanagan ~ Artificial Limb Centre Manager
- Removing the Need for Prosthetic Sockets - read article »
Some of the more recent research and clinical trials are working towards removing the need for a prosthetic socket. This is achieved by inserting a titanium bolt through the person's skin and bone and the prosthesis is attached directly to this implant.
Researchers report that it take about 6 months for the bone to integrate around the implant. Once this has been achieved a second procedure is carried out to attach a titanium extension to the implant. This sticks out a couple of inches from the amputation site. The prosthesis is then attached to this. A bone - integrated prosthesis such as this is thought to promote improved function of the prosthetic limb.
At this early stage researchers and clinical staff report that infection is an ongoing problem and another potential risk is that the post which, extends from the amputation site may bend or break necessitating it's removal.
- Research to Improve Rehabilitation for Amputees - read article »
Debbie Hockley (Physiotherapist in Christchurch, New Zealand) is undertaking research into the rehabilitation of amputees. This research is funded by the New Zealand Artificial Limb Board and is designed to provide:
- An education package for amputees pre operatively
- Best Practice Guidelines for Health Professional involved in the care and support of amputees
- A smoother transition from hospital to home.
This project has been divided into 4 different phases:
- Research - gathering available literature
- Focus groups - of all affected people eg. amputees and different groups of health professionals etc.
- Developing best practice guidelines
- Implementing the guidelines
This research is progressing well with effective communication and knowledge sharing between the acute and rehabilitation health teams (on different geographical sites) improving dramatically. Amputees are provided with good information at an early stage and are given the opportunity to join the local Amputee Society and be visited by other amputees of similar age, gender and level of amputation.
Shape mates / Rigid Removable Dressing (RRD)
Shape mates, or RRD's, are being increasingly used in New Zealand in an effort to prevent excessive swelling of the residual limb (stump), protect it from knocks and to facilitate the healing process. The RRD becomes malleable when wet and when applied solidifies to the shape of the stump. It is only used for below knee stumps and is currently applied within 48hours of surgery. Generally some form of pain relief is administered prior to applying the shape mate. Entonox has been found to be effective. It is noted that the ideal would be to have the shape mate applied at time of surgery and this is the ultimate aim.
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