We play a crucial role in prosthetic rehabilitation for amputees. Here’s how they contribute to the process:
1. Pre-prosthetic Phase:
- Assessment and Preparation: Physiotherapists assess the residual limb and the overall physical condition of the patient. They work on strengthening the remaining muscles and improving joint mobility to optimize the outcome of prosthetic fitting.
- Pain Management: Addressing any pain or discomfort associated with the residual limb through therapeutic interventions.
2. Prosthetic Fitting Phase:
- Education and Training: Physiotherapists educate patients about the prosthetic limb and its components. They train patients in donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) the prosthesis correctly.
- Gait Training: Teaching patients how to walk with the new prosthetic limb. This involves balance training, weight shifting, and improving coordination to ensure safe and efficient mobility.
- Strengthening and Conditioning: Designing exercise programs to strengthen the muscles that will support the prosthetic limb, as well as improving cardiovascular fitness and overall endurance.
3. Post-Prosthetic Phase:
- Monitoring and Adjustments: Continuously assessing the fit and function of the prosthetic limb. Physiotherapists make necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and functionality.
- Functional Rehabilitation: Helping patients regain functional independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) using the prosthetic limb.
- Problem-Solving: Addressing any challenges or issues that arise during the rehabilitation process, such as skin irritation or difficulty with specific movements.
4. Long-term Care:
Maintenance and Progress Monitoring: Monitoring the patient’s progress over time and adjusting rehabilitation goals as needed.
Support and Counseling: Providing emotional support and counseling to help patients adapt to life with a prosthetic limb.
We work closely with prosthetists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and support to amputees throughout the prosthetic rehabilitation journey. Our expertise in movement science and rehabilitation techniques is essential in maximizing the functional outcomes and quality of life for individuals with limb loss.