Shyama Udeshika

24.08.2012

Post 2

                Colombo-'Friend In Need'

Colombo Friend-In-Need society was established in1831. It is the oldest (180 years old) Charitable Organisation of Sri Lanka which organised to help disabled persons.

In 1983 Jaipur Foot Programme was initiated. They started to make Aluminium limbs after trainig at Jaipur in India. It is a low cost artificial limb and can be fabricated within 5-6 hours. Then the limb is fitted to amputee. It can be painted for cosmetic appearance. 

Components of  below knee limbs are socket,shank,foot and suspension. Components of above knee limbs are socket,shank,foot,knee joint and above knee belt. 

                                      Above knee limbs and below knee limbs 

In 1991 plastic socket fabrication was introduced. Plastic socket replace the aluminium socket. In 1995 high technology limb with ottobock  component introduced which improve the quality of the limb. These limbs are lighter than the Jaipur type limb and  patient must wear a shoe.

Artificial limbs which replace the lost body part is called 'Prosthesis'. Condition of the stump is important to fabricate the prosthesis. There are three types of stumps.                                            

1. Bulbous stump
2. Cylindircal  stump
3. Conical stump- most suitable to fit a prosthesis.                                                                                                                                         

When the limb is amputated amputee can start to walk with crutches after the health condition is improved. when the wound is healed amputee is reffered for the physiotherapy. At there limb muscles are strengthen and contractures of joints are avoided by exercise. Crape bandage is used for a good good shape of the stump.

'Orthosis' is an appliance to replace the body function.

Ankle foot orthosis

Foot Brace

Purpose of orthosis are,                                                                                                                            

• To correct deformity.
• To prevent further deformity.
• To control involuntary movements of the body.
• To support body weight.                                                                                              

             Other projects of Colombo Friend In Need

1. Training programme
2. Mobile limb fitting camp.                                                                                                                  A bus converted to Mobile Work Shop travels to all parts of the country.It provides artificial limbs to amputee who are unable to come to Colombo.
3. Self employment projects for amputee.                                                                                Amputees are given loans for self employment and encourage them.
4. Transist hostal accommodation.                                                                                                         Disabled persons come to Colombo from rural areas.This provide accommodation and food free of charge until they are fitted with artificial limbs.

                                                                                                                                         

                                                                                      
  There are three wards. Two wards for males and one ward for females.Thirty amputees can be accommodated at a time.

Source for funding are Ministry of Social Service,Lions Club,Rotary Club and public sponsored.