Prosthetics &
Orthotics
Prosthetic (artificial) limbs are devices that provide a portion of functions normally provided by natural arms and legs. They are often used when there is absence of part or all of the limb (e.g. due to an accident or birth defect). Prosthetic limbs consist of a custom made socket which fits the residual limbs and a terminal device made up of different components that assist in performing functional tasks and provide compatible cosmetic.
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A Prosthetic is the replacement of a limb or limb segment (e.g. arm or leg) from an amputation or congenital occurrence (born with it).
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An Orthotic is a brace/support to compensate for a body part that is not functioning
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A socket is a custom made silicone or rubber liner that keep the prosthesis attached. The prosthetic socket is the device that joins your residual limb (stump) to the prosthesis.
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A Terminal Device is the hand/hook at the end of a prosthetic arm.
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A recreational prosthesis will often be supported using waterproof components to make a waterproof leg for swimming and activities on the beach.
What is an Amputee?
An amputee is a person who has had a limb amputated by trauma, medical illness or surgery. K Levels quantify need and the potential benefit of prosthetic devices for patients after an amputation.
K1
A K1 prosthesis is suitable for use on level surfaces at steady speeds. with someone who only walks indoors and short distances outdoors for example to the car.
K2
A K2 prosthesis is suitable for outdoor use but at a low activity level. This isfor someone who manages steps and slopes but walks limited distances and may use a stick or other gait aid.
K3
A K3 prosthesis is uitable for general outdoor use, but not including sports and other high impact activities. This is for someone who walks in most commonly encountered environments, at varying speeds, long distances when required and usually without a gait aid.
K4
A K4 prosthesis is suitable for high impact use. For those people who have unrestricted mobility and may impose higher than usual forces on their prosthesis, e.g. sports, manual work.
Types of Prosthetics
Orthotists & Prosthetists
An orthotist or prosthetists assess the physical and functional limitations of people resulting from disease, illness, trauma and disability, including limb amputation, diabetes, arthritis and neuromuscular conditions. Orthotic and prosthetic services may involve the provision of orthoses and prostheses to restore function, prevent deterioration, and improve quality of life.
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Orthotist/prosthetists are commonly employed in Australian hospitals, private clinics, research institutions as well as rural and remote regions, working independently and as part of multidisciplinary healthcare teams to support the Australian community. Orthotist/prosthetists are tertiary qualified allied health professionals.
The Australian Orthotist and Prosthetic Association (AOPA)
The Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA) is the peak professional body for orthotist/prosthetists in Australia, with certified practitioners comprising 80% of the practicing profession. AOPA is responsible for regulating the profession and is recognised by the Commonwealth Government as the assessing authority responsible for conducting migration skill assessments for orthotist/prosthetists.
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Southern Prosthetics & Orthotics
Southern Prosthetics assist participants enhance mobility by providing an individualised service designed by their entire rehabilitation team by combining global cutting-edge technology with extensive local experience. Their state-of-the-art service facilities offer comfort and privacy for each of your visits so that people can keep track of their mobility progress.
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1300 136 054
(02) 4732 4973
2/311 High St Penrith
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Amputees NSW
The Amputee Association of NSW Inc is run by amputees for amputees. They are a not for profit organisation with a number of affiliated branches throughout NSW. They are a group of dedicated volunteers are available to help provide information and assistance to all amputees in the community.
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1800 810 969
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APC Prosthetics
APC Prosthetics provide a number of specialized programs and work closely with multidisciplinary health professionals to establish a customised treatment pathway. They are certified to fit all high-end prosthetic solutions for both the lower and upper extremity.
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The Esthetique Silicone Program
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Finger Restoration
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Partial Hand Restoration
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Upper Limb High Definition Silicone Prosthesis
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Toe Restoration
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Partial Foot Restoration
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Lower Limb High Definition Silicone Prosthesis.
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Suite 1 170-180 Bourke Rd, Alexandria
(02) 9890 8123 F. 02) 9890 8124 apc@apcprosthetics.com.au
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Don & Doff Orthotics
Don and Doff Orthotics specialises in assisting clients with special needs and behavioural difficulties. Home visits are available which aim to reduce the patient’s anxiety levels or their schools to work closely with their therapists.
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282 Rocky Point Rd, Ramsgate
0410 609 089
Medi Australia
Medi Australia concentrate on leading this country in compression therapy for the treatment of venous disorder, lymphoedema and lipoedema. They pride ourselves in providing education and training Australia wide including an annual visitation of international experts.
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83 Fennell St, North Parramatta
(02) 98908696
Orthomotion
Orthomotion help people with a strong emphasis on detailed client assessment, video gait analysis and delivering the most appropriate orthotic solutions to optimise their clients’ mobility outcomes.
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Advance Rehab Centre, 3/41 Herbert St, St Leonards NSW
(02) 9906 7777 bernard@orthomotion.com.au
Limbs 4 Life
Limbs 4 Life works to empower amputees and their family members so that you do not have to go through the journey of limb loss alone. Limbs 4 Life is here to assist you via offering Peer Support;, providing you with access to free up to date information and resources, re-connecting you with your community, promoting social inclusion, helping you and your loved ones to navigate your way forward through the recovery phase of your journey.
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Innovo Prosthetics
Innovo Prosthetics provide upper Limb & Congenital Paediatric Prosthetics including Myoelectrics. Innovo Prosthetics can service all amputee levels including Upper or Lower Limb amputation, Paediatrics, Sporting or Musical needs.
Manufacturers
+61 2 8818 2800
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Amputee Groups & Community Groups
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1300 866 275
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Prosthetic Cosmetic Stockings/Hoisery
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Prosthetic Brands include...
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Dry Corp (Underwater Prosthetics)