Integrated Support Solutions

When you only got photos… you make it work 😂

But the story behind these photos is actually pretty incredible.

Ever wondered how someone actually controls a myoelectric prosthetic hand?

One of our participants has been learning to use a myoelectric prosthetic hand following a transradial (mid-forearm) amputation and the technology behind it is pretty incredible.

When she thinks about opening or closing her hand, the muscles in her forearm contract and create tiny electrical signals.

Sensors inside the prosthetic detect those signals and use them to control the hand. For example, when one set of muscles contracts, the hand opens. When another contracts, it closes around an object.

But learning to use it goes even further than open and close.

With support from our Occupational Therapy team, she’s been learning proportional control adjusting how strongly she activates her muscles to control the speed and strength of the prosthetic hand. A stronger muscle signal creates a faster or stronger movement, while a smaller signal allows for more delicate control.

She’s now progressed to trialling multi-articulating prosthetic hands, where individual fingers can move independently to create different grip patterns from a pinch grip using the thumb and index finger to grips designed for holding objects of different shapes and sizes.

And then comes the most important part: turning all of that practice into everyday life.

Holding keys and cards. Preparing meals. Baking. Dressing. Washing and painting. Carrying shopping. Stabilising objects with one hand while working with the other.

The next step is finding the prosthetic that best suits her needs and continuing therapy so switching between grips and movements becomes more intuitive in everyday situations.

Pretty incredible what technology + therapy can do.

Whatever you call us, we’re here to do things a little differently.

From Allied Health to Support Coordination, our team works alongside you to build the skills, support and confidence to tackle everyday life.

Because support should fit your life not the other way around.

How would you describe your job to friends and family at a bbq?

Rolling, pinching and manipulating theraputty isn’t just an exercise it’s building the hand strength, coordination and dexterity needed for everyday tasks.

⌨️ Typing at work
🥫 Opening containers and packaging
👕 Doing up buttons and zips
✍🏼 Writing
🍴 Using cutlery
🔑 Turning keys
🛍️ Carrying and managing everyday items

Because the goal isn’t simply getting better at an exercise in a therapy session. It’s making everyday tasks feel easier, building independence and supporting people to do more of what matters to them.

Therapy → function → real life. 💙

When you’re heading to the snow, apparently you have to dress for the job… even if you’re still in Balcatta. 😂❄️

Sam flew off this week to the Össur Australia & New Zealand mobility clinic on snow as an Ossur Ambassador, ready to get amongst it, share his own experience and support others on the snow. 🏔️

Safe to say he is prepared!

Our next Cook & Connect group is kicking off at the end of September, bringing people together to build confidence in the kitchen, learn practical everyday cooking skills and enjoy connecting with others along the way.

Across the program, participants will have the opportunity to:
🥕 Build confidence preparing meals
🍽️ Develop practical kitchen and cooking skills
🤝 Connect with others in a supportive group environment
✨ Work towards greater independence with everyday meal preparation

Cook & Connect is designed to be practical, supportive and hands-on with skills that can be carried into everyday life at home.

📅 Starting late September
📍 Integrated Support Solutions WA, Balcatta
♿ NDIS participants welcome

Interested in joining us or know someone who might be a great fit? Get in touch with our team to find out more or register your interest.

If you’re someone who is experiencing mobility challenges, balance concerns, reduced strength, falls, rehabilitation needs or requires support with a prosthesis, our Physiotherapy team has availability and is welcoming new referrals.

We’re also excited to welcome Jason to the team. With experience across community physiotherapy, rehabilitation, falls prevention and complex physical health, Jason is passionate about helping people improve their independence and confidence through person-centred care.

At Integrated Support Solutions, our Physiotherapists work with, young adults and adults to support goals such as:
✔️ Improving mobility and function
✔️ Building strength and endurance
✔️ Falls prevention and balance training
✔️ Prosthetic rehabilitation
✔️ Increasing participation in everyday activities, exercise and sport

📩 Contact our team or submit a referral today.