When amputee patients are identified as needing an artificial limb, they come to the Disablement Services Centre to be assessed.
Artificial limbs are not always the best option for everyone. New patients will be assessed for their suitability for a prosthetic device by a team with a wide range of skills.
Coming for an assessment
If you come for an assessment, it would be helpful if you could wear shorts or loose fitting trousers or a skirt. This will help you to move around and exercise more freely during your visit.
For patients who have a prosthesis, we will see you:
- regularly for reviews during the first year of rehabilitation. After this, we will see patients when required.
- patients should make an annual appointment for their prosthesis to be maintained
- patients can always contact us to make appointments to see any member of the team.
We encourage patients to discuss their worries and concerns as this can be a very emotional time for them and their families. Members of the team are always happy to answer any questions that patients may have.
Our team
The team includes:
- Extended Scope Physiotherapists
- Medical rehabilitation consultant
- Nurse
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Prosthetist
The amputee service is led by Extended Scope Physiotherapists. Their role is to:
- co-ordinate the team
- assess patients for their suitability to use a prosthetic limb
- discuss the kind of prosthesis that patients may need
- monitor patients’ progress.
Nursing support
Nursing support and advice is available for patients in the Disablement Services Centre every Tuesday and Thursday morning.
The nurse can also be available at other times if necessary for some patients.
The nurse gives advice to patients, family and carers, and supports other members of the prosthetic rehabilitation team for:
Nursing assessment
As part of your assessment for a prosthetic limb, you will meet the nurse who’ll talk to you and measure your blood pressure and weight. The nurse will examine your remaining leg and ask about your medication and how you are feeling generally.
Wound care
This includes wound assessments, wound management and advice on dressings if your wound isn’t healed yet.
Stump care
Advice on the management of swelling, the importance of looking after the remaining leg, and checking regularly for any changes.
General health advice
Management of diabetic issues, diet and exercise, and general health issues. The nurse can also advise you about smoking and quitting.
Support
Support for you, your family and carers, as having an amputation can be a very emotional and upsetting time.
For all of your care issues, it is very important to speak to the centre staff if you have any worries or concerns – we are always happy to help.
Contact us
For more information about the Amputee Physiotherapy Service, please contact us:
Telephone: 0191 2231184
