Support Services

Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy & Exercise Physiology

Physiotherapy is currently available onsite at APC ‘s Alexandria and Northmead offices to assist amputees in varying stages of their prosthetic usage:

• Gait re-education from initial fitting of the first prosthesis through to advanced functioning (eg. return to recreational activities, running, gym programs).
• Upgrading/teaching the use of a new prosthetic prescription.
• A program for the use of micro-processor knee joints.

Physiotherapy at APC Prosthetics is provided by Cathy Howells, a registered physiotherapist with a special interest in amputee rehabilitation and over 30 years’ experience working exclusively with amputees.

It is important as an amputee or someone with limb difference to maintain good muscle strength, flexibility and stability, to ensure your ability to use your prosthesis continues well into your later years. Working regularly with a physio throughout your life as a prosthetic user, can act as a reminder to engage the muscles you may not be using as much as you should be, or to help you kick some bad gait habits you may have developed. OTs can help you learn how to use your prosthesis (especially Upper Limb) for specific tasks and training, along with recommending any modifications that need to be made to your home or car. EPs are great for ongoing amputee targeted training, or if you have a sport or recreational activity you would like to learn to get back to or start doing since being an amputee.

How you access a physiotherapist and other allied health services depends on your funding.

• ENABLE: https://www.enable.health.nsw.gov.au/
  • A referral from your GP will be required, you can get 5 free PT visits per year if you are on a care plan. We can assist by writing a referral to back up your need for this support service.
• NDIS: https://www.ndis.gov.au/
  • Talk to your planner at your next plan review to ensure there is sufficient funding available for the number of visits you require for the length of plan. Your prosthetic AT Assessment and request will advocate for any additional services deemed necessary for you to succeed with your prosthesis and goals.
• INSURANCE: This will be negotiated with your case manager.
• PRIVATE: There is always the option to go directly to a PT etc if covered by private health insurance or by paying directly. Your prosthetist can write a letter of referral/handover to communicate with your chosen provider in order to best help you succeed.

Medical Services 

The team at APC Prosthetics work closely with your rehabilitation specialist to ensure you receive the best treatment outcomes based on your health, healing and any other medical conditions that may affect your prosthetic use. Due to the long history of APC attending many amputee clinics for over 20 years, we have solid communication and a multidisciplinary team approach that leads to the quality service you will receive.

 

Support Services:

• LIMBS4LIFE: https://www.limbs4life.org.au/
  • Limbs4Life is a charity that provides peer support options, amputee resources and wellbeing information. They also provide independent support to help you navigate disability and health-care system. They also offer social events and activities for amputees of all ages.
• AMPUTEES NSW: https://www.amputeesnsw.org.au/
  • Amputees NSW is a volunteer based community organisation that provides support to anyone affected by limb difference. They aim to improve access to quality programmes, and news of upcoming events.