39471 - Orthesis and Orthopedic Aids 2

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module, the student will possess the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and fit orthosis and specific aids for the relevant pathologies

Course contents

Course presentation

Brief introduction to neurology: the back bone and spinal cord.

Spinal cord injury: causes and effects

statistics regarding SCI and cranial trauma.

the classification of disabilities: from ICDH to ICF

Mobility aids:

• manual wheelchairs. Measurements and the position

• stand-up wheelchairs

• electronic wheelchairs

• auto-balancing systems (such as Segway)

• electrically propelled systems for manual wheelchair

• sport aids

Postural and antidecubitus systems

• Backrests

• Antidecubitus Cushions and Mattresses

 Lifting and transfering systems

• fixed lifts

• mobile lifts  

• systems to strengthen the muscles

- cycle ergometres.

- fitness equipment

- ADL aids

- system to overcome architectural obstacles

• mobile stairlifts

• fixed stairlifts

• ramps

• accessible furnishings

• domotic and IT aids

• brief neurological introduction to bladder control

• Continence aids

• Special equiment for the car

• Special driving license

• Driving and transport aids

• General rules regarding the supply of aids from National Health System

Readings/Bibliography

- presentation slides

- scientific articles regarding mobility aids

- "guide to the aids" book

- viewing and comment some relevant websites of interest.

Teaching methods

- classroom teaching lessons and PC laboratory visits and excercises activities

Assessment methods

- oral exam

Teaching tools

 - Prosthesis Center Laboratory visits, in which the characteristics of the main aids referred to in the lessons, will be shown

- there could be the possibility to visit rehabilitation centers for SCI patients, to highlight the activities in post-acute phases of the trauma.

Office hours

See the website of Massimo Improta