AIIMS Bhopal has been consistently working towards the rehabilitation and empowerment of persons with disabilities. In continuation of these efforts, the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) formally launched its lower limb prosthetic service on July 3, 2024, marking the beginning of prosthesis distribution to persons with limb loss.
Now, after completing one year, this service has emerged as a crucial pillar in restoring confidence, mobility, and independence in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
India is witnessing a rising number of amputation cases, primarily due to road accidents, diabetes, and peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Statistics indicate that approximately 85% of total amputations involve the lower limbs, which are vital for bearing body weight, movement, and performing daily activities.
The loss of a leg not only brings physical challenges but also has profound psychological and social consequences, often rendering individuals dependent on others. In such circumstances, prosthesis (artificial limb) not only enables a person to walk again but also restores their confidence, dignity, and active participation in life.
The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at AIIMS Bhopal had already been efficiently operating orthosis fabrication and distribution services. The department successfully distributed approximately 3,000 orthoses.
The department provides lower limb prosthetic, below-knee (BK), above-knee (AK), below-elbow (BE), and above-elbow (AE) prostheses.
Speaking on the significance of prosthetic services, AIIMS Bhopal Executive Director Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh said, “The loss of a physical limb certainly impacts an individual’s life, but with appropriate support and rehabilitation services, persons with disabilities can rejoin the mainstream of society with dignity and confidence.” It is noteworthy that AIIMS Bhopal has become the first government institution in Central India to continuously provide advanced prosthetic and orthotic services at the institutional level.
