Rawalpindi, Pakistan – In a bid to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, students from the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program from Shifa Tameer e millet Univerisity recently embarked on an educational visit to the Orthotics Prosthetics Center (ALC) at Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi. Organized by the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, the visit provided the aspiring physical therapists with a rare opportunity to witness state-of-the-art prosthetic and orthotic solutions and gain firsthand insights into the rehabilitation process for individuals with limb disabilities.
Orthotics Prosthetics Center , famous as The Artificial Limb Center (ALC) , renowned for its advanced rehabilitation services, opened its doors to the DPT students, offering them a comprehensive tour of its facilities. The students explored key areas of the center, including consultation rooms, prosthetic manufacturing units, fitting and adjustment facilities, and physiotherapy sections. Each segment of the tour was designed to provide a holistic understanding of the intricate processes involved in creating, fitting, and maintaining artificial limbs.
During the visit, the students interacted with a team of highly skilled professionals, including prosthetists, orthotists, and physiotherapists, who shared their expertise and experiences. These interactions allowed the students to appreciate the multidisciplinary approach required to deliver effective rehabilitation services. The professionals demonstrated cutting-edge techniques such as 3D printing and biomechanical modeling, which are revolutionizing the field of prosthetic development.
One of the highlights of the visit was observing the complete lifecycle of prosthetic care—from the initial consultation and fabrication of artificial limbs to their fitting, adjustment, and ongoing maintenance. The students also gained insights into the psychological counseling provided to patients, emphasizing the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of rehabilitation.
“This visit was an eye-opening experience,” said one DPT student. “Seeing the advanced technology and the dedication of the professionals here has inspired me to think more innovatively about how we can improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.”
The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, which spearheaded the initiative, emphasized the importance of such visits in enhancing the practical knowledge and skills of DPT students. “Our goal is to ensure that our students are not only well-versed in theoretical knowledge but also equipped with the practical skills and empathy needed to make a meaningful impact in the field,” said a representative from the department. “This visit underscores our commitment to fostering a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation.”
The experience left a lasting impression on the students, broadening their professional perspectives and reinforcing the significance of collaboration among healthcare professionals. It also highlighted the transformative potential of advanced technologies in improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.
As the DPT students returned to their academic pursuits, they carried with them not only newfound knowledge but also a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of rehabilitation. The visit to the Artificial Limb Center at Fauji Foundation Hospital stands as a testament to the power of experiential learning in shaping the next generation of physical therapists, ready to make a difference in the lives of those they serve.
