RJAH occupational therapy equipment image

NHS Commissioners for Spinal Injuries has funded £225,000 worth of “state-of-the-art” rehabilitation equipment for Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital, The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH).

A sensor-based tool to improve motor function, pioneering robotics to improve hand therapy outcomes, and biofeedback technology to strengthen shoulder and elbow range-of-motion are part of the assistive rehabilitation devices to be used at the specialist hospital.

These advanced devices use modern technologies, such as robotics, virtual reality, and gamification, to provide improved variety and treatment to patients.

The collection of upper limb rehabilitation equipment will be used to support spinal cord injury patients with their rehabilitation at RJAH. It is designed to RJAH patients a more modern experience.

Alison Mannion, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist, said: “We are all very excited to have the new equipment to use with our patients and we’re already beginning to think of ways it can help other departments and improve patient outcomes.

“It can be used with patients of varying upper limb ability, and it will be a useful assessment and treatment tool to enhance our current rehabilitation. It gives biofeedback to patients so they can start to relearn patterns of movement with the aim to increase their functional independence.”

The first piece of equipment is a sensor-based surface tool, called Myro, which is used for creative therapy to improve the motor function and cognitive performance of patients.

Amaedo is the second piece of equipment, which uses robotics to improve individual finger movements and hand therapy outcomes.

The final piece is the Diego, which is used to strengthen shoulder and elbow range-of-motion through biofeedback.

Philip Hulse, Therapy Services Manager, commented: “The whole team are delighted with the purchase of the new equipment for the Therapy Service – it’s really had a positive impact across the department.

“This equipment means we can improve the outcomes of our patients; allow staff to be more creative with our treatment plans; and carry out high quality research which will benefit the Trust, orthopaedics and future patients.”

In September, RJAH declared an “equipment amnesty” and urged former patients to return therapy equipment that was no longer user, as the hospital faced a shortage of equipment. This included walking aids, commodes and toileting products.

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