Congenital and Acquired Amputations in Childhood – Physiotherapy Management

Background

Physical therapy assessment and treatment for congenital and acquired amputations in pediatric patients.

Relevance to Physiotherapy Practice

The number of pediatric patients with limb differences is much smaller than adults, most physical therapists do not have the opportunity to build their expertise with this population. There are some significant differences between adults and children with amputation and these will be highlighted. Also every child with a congenital limb difference is unique and requires an individual care plan to meet their needs as development occurs and needs change over time. 

Learning Objectives

1. To establish best practice in management of childhood amputees.

2. Allow participants to ask questions of a clinician who works with the amputee population.

3. Improve knowledge of prosthetics from a physiotherapists perspective

SPEAKER'S BIOGRAPHY

Beth Watkins is a Physiotherapist who has worked with children with limb difference and acquired amputation since graduating from University of Toronto with a BScPT in 1980. Beth has been the coordinator of the Children’s Limb Difference Clinic at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital since 1984 and has had the opportunity to attend international conferences specializing in the management of paediatric amputees.