Functional Outcome Levels in Prosthetics
Medicare set up
functional outcome criteria to help limit abuse in the
system. They really did a nice job of thinking it through
for the benefit of all. It is basically what the majority of
practitioners were already using in common sense practice. A
very few were abusing the system by fitting very old and
sick clients with very high functioning prostheses that they
would not be able to use properly even if they were healthy.
Medicare has 5 levels:
Functional level:
0 - non candidate
1 - Sitting and transfers
2 - Household ambulation
3 - Community ambulater, active
4 - High Activity, sports, physical demanding at work
The design considerations
must be appropriate for the amputee and his/her lifestyle.
The activity level, types of activities required and wanted,
climate, height, weight, cosmetic needs, general health,
balance, muscle strength, endurance, the condition and
location of the (leg, residual limb, stump), and many other
factors need to be addressed before components can be
discussed. For example, a common problem with lower
extremity amputations is getting in and out of cars, sports
areas or theaters. Those who require extra attention in this
area may require modifications to solve this problem. For
others it might be the desire to ride a bicycle, play golf,
or cope with the special needs of a work place.
A prosthesis should be
designed to meet ones present situation and their future
potential.
Children have different
needs and solutions to solve than an adult. They are
continually growing and usually much more active. They will
cycle their prosthesis more times in a given day, meaning
more steps, more arm movements, and are not as aware about
protecting a prosthesis from abuse (sand, water, hitting it
on objects). We also know they will be pushing the
functional outcomes to the limit every day.
With new materials,
products, components, and designs we are able to meet more
and more of these functional needs and outcomes. As you can
see many factors play into the design criteria for each
patient. That is why each prosthesis is different, to solve
the special needs of the individual.
New Videos
Click below to see examples of our video's on a few results and testimonials.
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All braces are measured, fit and DBS Fabricated for each client's needs. (A sample AFO shown.)
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There often is a device that can alleviate premature wearing of joints, ligaments, muscle, and bones, along with preventing ulcers, reducing or eliminating pain, and improving balance.
DBS orthotists work closely with a patient's physician, and can send an elaborate evaluation report with recommendations back to the physician.
Lectures & Presentations
To schedule for your organization or more on locally scheduled events, contact us.
A few Titles from the lecture series...
