Physiotherapy

The DSC provides a physiotherapy service for amputees living within the Portsmouth Hospitals local catchment area. Physiotherapy initially focuses on preparing people for their artificial limb. This may involve exercises, balance work and walking with one of our trial limbs. Once a patient has been assessed and the process of limb fitting has begun the physiotherapy focus shifts to teaching people how to walk with the leg and how to use it safely in their day to day life.

Learning to walk with the artificial limb takes on average between 3 to 6 months depending on the individual patient and their level of amputation. Gait training is the process of learning how to walk with an artificial limb. Developing a "good gait" is key to having a comfortable and efficient walking stride.

Learning to use your artificial limb safely begins in physiotherapy. Treatment consists of setting realistic goals for recovery. Patients start by practising how to put the leg on and take it off again along with learning how to monitor the stump for any problem areas. Walking practice will begin in the parallel bars and once a good walking pattern has been established, patients are then able to move on to a walking aid such as a stick, crutches or a frame. When patients are safely walking with their artificial limb they are then able to start using it at home.

After the initial physiotherapy intervention patients are still able to contact us for further assessments if they feel their needs have changed. Physiotherapy can offer established patients help with problems such as falls, pain or reduced mobility and independence. We are also always available for advice should you need it.

Launch of AMPFIT - weekly fitness classes for amputees

Chantel Ostler, with the support of Moving Forward and funding from the Big Lottery, is co-ordinating the delivery of AMPFIT - fitness classes for amputees.

Moving Forward was really pleased to announce a successful application to the National Lottery Awards for All and the award of £8,500 to support the weekly amputee fitness classes which will be held at Southsea Community Centre every Thursday from 1.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. from October 2009 onwards. The scheme is based on the successful MANFIT programme that was developed in Manchester. The classes are aimed at any level of ability and can be done from a wheelchair. They are low intensity and fun.

The group will be run by an experienced tutor and is dedicated to those who have suffered limb loss. Transport is provided for those that need it. Chantel has been working with the User Group to develop the concept and organise the delivery. We will monitor and evaluate the programme with the aim of sustaining the classes beyond the life of the lottery funding. If you would like to find out more please contact Chantel Ostler: chantel.ostler@porthosp.nhs.uk;