The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS FT, have acquired a powered arm and hand brace, designed to help restore function to paralysed or weakened upper limbs. The trust is currently the only NHS trust in the UK with access to the equipment. This was as a result of a £50,000 charity donation from the League of Friends.
Occupational therapy is the usual method for patients dealing with physical, sensory, or cognitive problems, as a way to help them regain independence in all aspects of their lives. The new equipment means rehabilitation has now been enhanced even more for patients.
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Simon Pickard specialises in hand and upper limb surgery, with a focused approach on upper limb paralysis from brain or spinal cord injuries, as well as peripheral nerve injuries, and was a huge part in the acquisition of the equipment.
He said: “This is a really innovative and progressive piece of equipment that will benefit a large cohort of our patients going forward – especially those with weakened muscles or paralysis that require intensive rehabilitation.
“As the first NHS trust to have this system, it means we have the opportunity to be involved in high-quality research and will allow us, as a hospital, to provide our patients with world-class care.”
Victoria Sugden, League of Friends Charity Director, said: “We are so pleased to be able to fund such a trailblazing piece of equipment – the Peripheral Nerve Injury Team provide an excellent service and the equipment will only enhance this further.”
