On 6 September, Prosthetists and Orthotists Day is observed, giving us a moment to highlight our Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) department at St. Mary’s Hospital on the Isle of Wight, and their commitment to sustainability in healthcare. This year’s theme, "Greener P&O – Sustainability in Prosthetics and Orthotics," underscores their focus on reducing environmental impact while maintaining high-quality patient care.
A key sustainability initiative is the department’s collaboration with the charity Stand - We Walk Together, which supplies refurbished prosthetic components to those in need across Africa. Rather than discarding prostheses that are no longer required or suitable for patients, the department refurbishes and donates these devices, giving them a second life. This approach not only reduces waste but also provides essential mobility aids to individuals who might otherwise lack access.
The O&P department at St. Mary’s is unique in the UK for its dedicated on-site workshop, where custom orthotic and prosthetic devices are fabricated and adjusted. This setup allows for personalised care, ensuring patients receive tailored solutions. The team provides a wide range of services, including custom orthotic devices like insoles, braces, spinal jackets, and orthopaedic footwear to manage conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and cerebral palsy. Additionally, they create custom-made prosthetic limbs for individuals with congenital limb loss or amputations due to trauma or medical conditions, offering ongoing support through maintenance and rehabilitation.
The integrated O&P team - made up of prosthetists, orthotists, specialist counsellors, rehab team, specialist nurses, orthotic and prosthetic technicians, physiotherapists, and admin staff - is committed to delivering high-quality care, with sustainability efforts like the prosthesis refurbishment programme.
The team takes great pride in their work, particularly in moments when patients regain mobility or live pain-free due to the devices created for them. They enjoy the diversity of cases they handle, each one unique, and the privilege of caring for patients across all age groups, from infants to the elderly.
Feedback from those we care for
Patients and carers often express their appreciation for the team’s dedication:
"Friendly receptionist. Professional and approachable therapist. Gave me confidence and explained everything. Thank you!"
"This department is excellent. Caring, kind, efficient, and respectful. Can’t praise them enough."
"The staff and care they give are outstanding. No problem is too big or too small. They deal with all of them with the utmost care."
As we celebrate Prosthetists and Orthotists Day, we acknowledge the vital work of this dedicated team and their contributions to improving patient outcomes while fostering a sustainable healthcare environment. Their efforts continue to make a positive impact on the Isle of Wight community.