Author: Jordan Ellis

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oapl’s Newest Slacks Creek Clinic – Now Open!

oapl is very excited to introduce our newest State-of-the-Art Prosthetic and Orthotic Facility in Slacks Creek.

The new facility is designed to cater to the diverse needs of healthcare practitioners, featuring a fully functional workshop for on-site device creation and maintenance. The facility’s open and spacious layout has been purposefully designed to enhance the patient’s experience. Comfortable and welcoming areas for patient care are complemented by spaces dedicated to staff training and educational programs. This commitment to education not only empowers our team with the latest knowledge and skills but also promotes ongoing advancements in the field.

oapl has a long-standing history of serving the Queensland community through our distinguished brands, oapl Mansfield and Brisbane Prosthetics and Orthotics. With the establishment of this state-of-the-art facility in Slacks Creek, we are consolidating these operations into a single location.

This consolidation creates a true hub for multi-disciplinary care, bringing together experts from various domains under one roof. This synergy of expertise allows us to expand and enrich our clinic offerings, providing a comprehensive range of services to a wider client base.

At the heart of our mission is the commitment to delivering top-tier prosthetic and orthotic treatments. With this new facility, we are taking a significant step toward achieving this goal. The facility not only offers state-of-the-art technology but also fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals. This collaborative approach ensures that our clients receive comprehensive and integrated support, tailored to their unique needs.

Our vision for the Slacks Creek facility extends beyond providing exceptional care to our clients. We see it as a beacon of excellence in Prosthetic and Orthotic care, not only in Queensland but also in the wider region. OAPL’s dedication to fostering a holistic care model and driving industry growth is poised to make the Slacks Creek facility a cornerstone of healthcare innovation.

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The Diabetic Foot

Diabetes is known to cause neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves of the foot and lower leg, which can cause pain, tingling, altered sensation or even loss of sensation. Diabetes also causes blood vessels to narrow and harden, reducing the circulation of blood to the feet. Neuropathy and reduced blood flow can cause delayed wound healing, which increases the risk of foot complications. A poorly managed diabetic foot can result in callous, ulceration, vascular issues and poor skin quality that often lead to a decreased quality of life and is the leading cause of lower limb amputations.

Causes 

Anything that touches the skin increases the risk of ulceration, however, those with intact sensation will be able to feel when something is rubbing or digging in and is able to remove the cause. For individuals with neuropathy and associated poor sensation, they are unaware of the increased pressure and as a result, don’t remove it. This leads to an increase in friction or pressure, which damages the skin and causes a Pressure Injury (PI).  

What is a pressure injury and what do I look for? 

A Pressure Injury is caused by an increased pressure that can result in localised damage to the skin and soft tissue. This typically occurs over bony prominences or in the presence of an ill-fitting device (shoe) particularly in those with neuropathy.  

Pressure can appear to be a red area on the skin which is still present when there is no pressure being applied, swelling of the skin, localised heat or pain as well as a change in firmness or elasticity of the skin. Prolonged pressure causes skin breakdown which can appear as a graze or blister appears and result in an ulcer if left untreated. 

Importance of footwear 

Diabetes Australia has conducted extensive research and formulated a guideline for clinicians on the most appropriate management for diabetic feet. Throughout their findings, there is an emphasis on the prevention of disease and the importance of footwear. 

The guidelines recommend that individuals with diabetes should wear appropriate footwear that fits and protects their foot. Appropriate footwear options are shoes that have adequate length, width, and depth. The toe box is especially important as many shoes available in retail stores may have a narrow toe box which can apply unwanted pressures. 

Features to consider for appropriate footwear:

  • Toe box w/ sufficient width
  • Heel counter
  • Laces or Velcro fastening
  • Low heel height
  • Non-flexible midsole
  • Reduced inner seams

 

For those at a high risk of foot ulceration, footwear options should be consulted with a health professional who will be able to fit therapeutic footwear where necessary. These shoes differ to retail shoes in that they are specifically designed to fit individuals who need a larger width and depth in their shoe. These shoes also make it easier to fit orthotics and often have features which make them easier to put on.

As mentioned, anything that touches the skin can increase the risk of a PI. That’s why it’s important for those at a higher risk to check their feet for any areas of increased pressure after wearing shoes and their shoes for any foreign objects.

If you think you or someone you know has diabetes and is at risk of developing foot ulcers, see your local oapl clinic for prevention options.

We sell Diabetic friendly, extra depth/width footwear for you or your patients.

With a breathable nylon lined upper and a neoprene top, three removable EVA insoles are made with a latex top with an antimicrobial coating. They have a plush lining with minimal seams which is ideal for Diabetics or those with reduced/altered sensation.

These shoes feature a slip-resistant sole that can be worn indoors or outdoors, making them appropriate for hospital, rehabilitation, or even home settings. They are easily cleaned and can be washed at 40°C.

If you would like to see more click here:

Leipzig Rehabilitation Shoe | OAPL (oaplshop.com.au)

Therapeutic Heidelberg Shoe | OAPL (oaplshop.com.au)

SmartKnit® seamless diabetic socks are soft and non-irritating made especially for people with diabetic and sensitive feet.

Completely free of seams, SmartKnit socks use a stretchy core-spun latex-free yarn that creates socks that conform to your feet to reduce wrinkling and bunching. Ionic™ silver fibres wick away moisture from the skin faster than other diabetic socks to control moisture levels, reduce blister-causing friction, and control odours. The non-binding Halo Top™ fits comfortably to hold up the sock and minimise indentations.

Seamless Diabetic Crew Socks | OAPL (oaplshop.com.au)

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Rhiannon’s Story

Rhiannon has been a below-knee amputee for 26 years, and as a mother of three young children, she is a true inspiration when it comes to overcoming obstacles.

Instead of allowing her amputation to hold her back, Rhiannon has always believed that every effort and hardship is worth it, as she explains, “I have endeavored most of my life not to let my disability define me or the life I want to lead. I teach my children that there is no limit to what can be achieved, no matter your physical limitations. Some days can be hard, but all of them are rewarding and worth every effort, and every bit of pain and hardship.”

 

 

Currently studying to become a nurse and eventually a midwife, Rhiannon has recently started working as a personal care assistant in an aged care facility. This role requires her to spend long periods on her feet, constantly moving for 8-10 hours a day. When not at work, Rhiannon spends most of her day running around after her three energetic children, including kinder drop-offs, playground visits, and games of chasey and hide and seek, often while carrying one or two of them.

Thanks to her amazing prosthetist, Rhiannon now has a prosthetic leg that perfectly suits her busy lifestyle. “I now have a leg that can meet my activity level requirements, and as I was able to customize the design of the socket, I can wear something that suits my personality as well. I enjoy choosing a design that my kids will enjoy seeing also.” Rhiannon is excited to test out her new prosthetic and get back into running and exercising at the gym.

 

At oapl we’re here to help you achieve your goals. Our team of dedicated and skilled clinicians understand the challenges faced by Prosthetic and Orthotic clients and are committed to supporting you. We have clinics right across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula, including Carrum Downs and the Amputee Rehabilitation Centre (Peninsula Health) in Frankston. In addition to these services, we are also a NDIS Registered Provider and can assist with all your NDIS needs related to Prosthetic or Orthotic (bracing) devices.

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Naked Prosthetics

Naked Prosthetics designs and fabricates durable, custom prosthetic devices specifically for those living with finger loss.

“Our mission is to assist people with finger amputation and to positively impact their lives by providing functional, high-quality finger prostheses.” With a range of options for varying degrees of finger loss, Naked Prosthetics finger prostheses continue to enable amputees to live active and independent lifestyles.

Product Range

PIPDriver™
Designed for individuals amputated at the middle phalanx. The PIPDriver™ is the most simple and intuitive to use. Because the device fits alongside the patient’s finger, we can anatomically match their PIP and DIP joints so it operates predictably and naturally. The PIPDriver™ offers exceptional daily utility. The second-generation PIPDriver™ combines the same reliable functionality with a new, sleek aesthetic design, improved hinges, and a variety of colour options for users.
ThumbDriver™
The newest product in our lineup shares its heritage with the MCPDriver™. It features a unique anchor design that tracks the patient’s natural CMC motion while still providing a rigid structure to react to the heavy forces generated by thumb opposition. The tip is positionable and articulates more subtly than in the MCPDriver™, which enables the most common thumb grasps.
MCPDriver™
Designed for amputations at the proximal phalanx, the MCPDriver™ restores the middle and distal phalanges. These dependently articulating pads help to create natural grip patterns. (The MCPDriver™ excels at restoring pinch, key, and cylindrical grasps as well as grip stability.) The durable metal frame and replaceable components allow users to return to particularly demanding lifestyles with confidence. The second-generation MCPDriver™ features improved aesthetic appearance and comfort, precision-machined components, and stylish colour options.
GripLock Finger™ *NEW*
The GripLock Finger™ is Naked Prosthetics’ elegant solution for amputations proximal to the MCP joint. This device can be worn in conjunction with our MCPDriver™, PIPDriver™ or ThumbDriver™, and provides the same colours and design choices our users love. Serviceable nylon fairings and silicone pads provide seamless aesthetics and improved grip stability while also preventing scratch damage to sensitive surfaces and objects handled by the user.

oapl have a vast array of experience treating patients with finger amputation.

To book an appointment with one of our prosthetists, please call us on 1300 866 275 or view our clinical locations here.

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WalkAide® 2

The WalkAide® II is an advanced functional electrical stimulation (FES) system for the treatment of drop foot. Designed to improve walking for individuals with the inability to safely and effectively clear their toes from the ground, the WalkAide® II uses FES to assist healthy nerves and muscles.

Why would I need to wear a WalkAide 2?

The WalkAide 2 Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) device is the 2nd generation of the original WalkAide which has helped thousands of people globally walk with greater confidence and safety. It is worn by people that are experiencing a condition called foot drop which is caused by lower limb muscle and nerve injuries, muscle disorders, and brain and spinal disorders. As a result, people will experience difficulty lifting their feet whilst walking which is where the WalkAide 2 device assists.

How does it work?

With each subsequent step, the WalkAide® II sends gentle, electrical impulses to nerves in the leg that tell the muscles to lift the toes. How does it know when to stimulate? Well, whilst wearing the WalkAide® II on the lower leg, an internal sensor identifies the leg motion and speed as the person takes just a few steps and then uses that information to create a customised walking program. Stimulation timing adjusts to accommodate changes in walking speed in real-time, ensuring appropriate stimulation with every step and enabling the user’s toes to clear the ground throughout their gait. Walking and training program adjustments can be made by the user to promote optimal results.

Features & Benefits

  • Design is slim and self-contained
  • Electrodes don’t need replacement
  • Device plugs in for charging
  • Fits under tight clothing
  • Footwear doesn’t need to change
  • Barefoot walking is possible
  • Smartphone app controls adjustments
  • Activity mode options include Gait mode and Training mode
  • App tracks number of steps walked
  • Water resistant against short splash duration
  • Additional benefits of FES may include increased range of motion, decreased spasticity, enhanced strength and endurance, increased gait speed and improved quality of life.1

1. Damiano DL, et al. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2013; 27(3):2000-2007; Downing A, et al. Int J MS Care 2014;16:146–152; El-Shamy SM, et al. AM J Phys Med Reahbil 2016 Sep; 95(9):629-63; Miller L, et al. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2017 Jul; 98(7):1435-1452; Prosser LA, et al. Dev Med Child Neurol 2012; 54(11):1044-1049; Stein RB, et al. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2006; 20(3):371-379; Stein RB, et al. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2010; 24(2):152-167; Street T, et al. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine 2017; 41:3, 361-366.

Programming

The Walkaide® II is programmed by your physician through an application on tablet or smart phone. The program will be customised to suit your level of activity and comfort. The device settings can be adjusted directly through the app.

 

Indications

  • Stroke
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
  • Familial/Hereditary Spastic Paresis

    oapl have a vast array of experience treating patients with drop foot and successfully prescribing the WalkAide 2 in conjunction with the NDIS and other state funding bodies. To book an appointment with one of our orthotists, please call us on 1300 866 275 or view our clinical locations here.

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