Reach exists to support the parents and families of children with hand or arm deficiencies. As part of this, we also provide help and advice to professionals who may be coming across these children for the first time. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact head office. As we get information that is of general help we will put it on the web site   Occupational Therapy (ULPOT) ULPOT (Upper Limb Prosthetic Occupational Therapists) - this is a group of occupational therapists who are willing to be contacted for advice about practical issues or difficulties that may be encountered by a child with an upper limb deficiency. If you feel your child needs help, ask for an appointment with the Occupational Therapist at your nearest Limb Fitting Centre. If you are not sure where your centre is contact Reach Head Office

A prosthetist is the person you will see if your child may benefit from an artificial limb (prosthesis). They will assess the individual's physical and social needs, and develop prosthetic prescription ideas. They will then take some measurements and a mould of the limb, normally using plaster. This mould is used to make the prosthesis which they will fit to the individual.

An orthotist is the person you will see if your child may need a splint or brace (orthosis). An orthosis helps to hold, straighten or protect part of the body. They will assess the individual's needs to come up with prescription ideas, and like a prosthetist they may take measurements and a mould from which the orthosis is made. Sometimes a custom made orthosis is not necessary and a prefabricated one is prescribed.

To become a prosthetist/orthotist you must successfully complete a degree in prosthetics and orthotics. You can study this at the University of Salford and the University of Strathclyde. More information can also be found through the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists.

www.healthcare.salford.ac.uk/prosthetics
www.strath.ac.uk/prosthetics
www.bapo.org