How the C-Brace is opening up a new world of possibilities
The C-Brace is big news in the progression of Orthotic treatment for neurological conditions. The integration of microprocessor technology into a carbon fibre Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO’s) opens up a whole new world of possibilities and mobility for patients dependent on full leg support to stand and walk.
As standard, KAFO users are supplied with locked knee KAFOs. This is where the knee is locked in a straight position throughout their gait cycle, but manually unlocked to allow the user to sit down with their knee flexed. The use of a locked KAFO brings about stability of the knee for users with reduced lower leg muscles strength, when walking on level ground.
What are FES devices and how can they be used to treat upper motor neuron conditions?
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) was first documented as a treatment option for dorsiflexion weakness post CVA, in 1961 by Liberson et al. Since then there have been numerous studies into the use of FES in upper motor neuron conditions and the NHS integrated FES into its services in the late 1980s.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) released the following guideline; Electrical stimulation for drop foot of central neurological origin, [IPG278] in January 2009. The guideline states that FES can be routinely offered as a treatment option for people with foot drop, caused by damage to the brain or spinal cord, if the health professional considers it is appropriate.Home Insurance Safeguarding Your Haven
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A week in the life of a rehabilitation assistant
Katie Pinn, Senior Cognitive Rehab Assistant at BIS Services.
My week really starts on a Sunday as this is when I plan my upcoming week, I check to see if any clients have appointments during the week, what goals we are working on, where we are in each and make sure there's lots of variety within sessions. My first client on a Monday I must check in on their well being, ascertain level of productivity over the weekend and schedule the new week. This particular client I've had to provide with much support due to shielding during both the 1st and the second lockdown.
Global rehab tech leaders join forces
Two major players in rehabilitation technology are to join forces, in a move which is set to transform the global sector.
Fourier Intelligence has formed a global strategic partnership with maxon Group, which combines the expertise of both businesses into a venture which will drive the development of new technologies for patients. The businesses have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to advance their common purpose of creating transformative technology to support patients’ needs. With technology playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of rehabilitation services and healthcare, there is increasing need to devise and accelerate the development of technological solutions to ensure the needs of patients around the world are met.
Taking time to look back – so the way ahead is clearer
Reflective practice within healthcare settings is widely talked about, but not always so easy to implement in the workplace. NR Times speaks to one neurological centre about how it benefits patients and staff there.
Reflective practice and discussion in healthcare settings is a professional requirement for nurses, as laid out by the Royal College of Nursing revalidation requirements as part of their continuous professional development.
It allows professionals to take time to pause and reflect, communicate and plan, which undoubtedly leads to better outcomes for patients and staff.
The way ahead for rehab tech
NR Times invited three experts for a virtual discussion on the changing role of technology in rehab after brain injury.
Neuro-rehab specialists Anna Wilkinson and Rebecca Bancroft, of physiotherapy provider More Rehab, are joined by Louise Jenkins, partner and serious injury specialist at Irwin Mitchell.
Anna Wilkinson (AW): Using tech gives us a different way of rehabilitating someone; it keeps patients attentive, keeps them concentrated and keeps them motivated to reach their goals.
