CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Dr. Franco Molteni,(1) - Dr.ssa Daniela Biacchi,(1) - Dr.ssa Maria Colombo,(1) - Ft. Mariangela Pascoli,(1) - Ing. Beonora Guanziroli,(1) - T.Ort. Rosaria E.Caforio,(2) - Ing. Salvatore Dell'Anna,(2) - Ing. Antonio Zurlo,(2) - T.Ort. Alessandro Crippa,(3)

(1) "Villa Beretta" Centro di Riabilitazione, Unità dell'Ospedale Valduce - Costa Masnaga (LC)

(2) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

(3) "Ortopedia Pessina" - Officina Ortopedica - Casatenovo (LC)

The Versa Adacta system was designed to achieve the ideal postural position by perfectly balancing the body’s weight against the force of gravity, thus providing the most supportive surface possible for individuals with deformities. The system’s efficiency and effectiveness were clinically evaluated during this study by 15 users, all with severe Tetraplegia caused by CP, Muscular Dystrophy, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury and Genetic Diseases. Findings showed that the Versa Adacta system not only reduced the burden of care but also had a positive impact on body function and actually enhanced the body’s residual abilities. This study also highlighted the need for continuous reviews and adjustments of the system in order to follow the evolution of the user’s pathology and maintain the system’s positive impact upon the individual.

CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Orthopedist Technician and Inventor Rosaria E.Caforio.(1)

(1) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

As the posture of the trunk begins at the pelvis, this study discusses the foundations of this new approach to the relationship between posture and the pelvis. It summarises the concepts, methodology and the technology behind this theory and introduces some examples of its application.

CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Orthopedist Technician and Inventor Rosaria E.Caforio.(1)

(1) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

Finding a harmonious relationship between the femurs, the pelvis and the spine is imperative for achieving a well-balanced and functional posture. This study introduces the fundamentals of this innovative, combined approach and summarises the concept, methodology and the technology involved, along with examples of its application on wheelchair users with various disabilities.

CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Orthopedist Technician and Designer Rosaria E.Caforio,(1)

Director Ian Deumayne Jones,(2)

Dip COT HPC Christine Turner.(3)

(1) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

(2) "DMS Ltd" - Distributor - Bridgnorth - Uk

(3) "Wheelchair of Health Limited" - Wheelchair Seating clinical Advisor - Southampton - UK

This case study, undertaken by a team of professionals within multiple disciplines, followed the postural management of a severely disabled individual suffering from high extensor tone. Prior to this study, countless wheelchairs had sustained irreversible damage due to the extreme strength of the user’s movements. Combining the dynamic frame of the Adacta Klim with the Domino Inserto Seat cushion and a personalised Versa backrest, this study observed the user’s improved posture and comfort, the reduction in the intensity and frequency of their extensor tone and the decline of the deformities progression. Results which avoided intrusive spinal surgery and led to safer wheelchair usage and a stark decrease in social costs and care burden.

Beginning in 2013 with a study carried out at the Hospital CPO Centro Paraplegici Ostia (IT) to analyse the resulting postural problems of users with Spinal Cord injuries. For example, the impact upon biomechanics, seating surface contact and pressure and overall function. During ADL, evaluation also focused upon the perceived comfort and stability with different cushions and positioning systems for the user’s pelvis. The results of this investigation provided the basis for the development and design of the two new positioning solutions for SCI users: Inserto Modo and Inserto Novo. Research continued throughout 2014 in spinal rehabilitation units in Rome and Milan and in 2015, under the authorisation of CNOPUS (National Coordination Professional Operators of Spinal Units) progressed to include additional spinal units in Turin and Catania. Different Modo and Novo prototypes were produced and their materials analysed and tested by all users to identify and validate the final design and materials for both seating solutions.

CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Orthopedist Technician and Inventor Rosaria E.Caforio,(1)

Sales Manager Francesco Rossi.(1)

(1) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

Combining our postural concept of PTS (Pelvic Total Support) and TTS (Total Trunk Support) this study illustrates the methodology of dynamically balancing the relationship in a seated position of the femurs, pelvis and spine. Thus compensating for different postural deficits, pathologies and preventing pressure sores whilst enhancing physical and mental energy

CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Orthopedist Technician and Designer Rosaria E.Caforio.(1)

(1) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

The work was focused upon different postures, movements and needs of users affected by movement disorders with a long-term perspective in mind. It highlights the research evolution, from clinical through to experimental and finally industrial, to design and produce effective seating solutions. Thus achieving the significant milestone of combining mechanical dynamism and the ability to absorb movement. The shock absorbing quality of the frame mechanics and the low spring-back action of the materials within the seating system provides for safe and reliable return to an optimal seating posture for each individual user’s movement disorder.

CORRESPONDING AUTHORS

Giobellina R.(1) - Luzzoli C.(2) - Caforio R.(3) - Dalla Costa D.(4)

(1) "Associazione Amici del Centro Vittorio di Capua Onlus" - Centro di REV. di Capua - Milano

(2) "SC Neuropsichiatria Infantile" - Centro REV. di Capua - ASST Gom Niguarda Milano

(3) "Pro Medicare Srl" - Positioning Solutions Manufacturer - Mesagne (BR)

(4) "SC Medicina Riabilitativa e Neuroriabilitazione" - ASST Gom Niguarda Milano

The objective, undertaken by a collaborative team within multiple disciplines, was the development of an innovative, modular, postural pad to enhance the experience of therapeutic horse riding (Hippotherapy) for users with disabilities. This project was focused upon maximising the efficacy of the therapeutic stimulus of the horse’s movements whilst also guaranteeing the comfort and safety of both the individual and the animal. The methodology and developing stages of the project are described as well as the results achieved during a Hippotherapy session with a young girl with CP. Results proved the rehabilitation benefits of Hippotherapy