Orthotics and Prosthetics students met with experienced professionals
An event titled “Transtibial Prosthetic Measurement Techniques” was organized by the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program of Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS). In the event, led by Instructor Kübra Akkalay, Head of the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program, Specialist Orthotist-Prosthetist Tuğba Tanış and prosthesis user Muhammed Erduran met with students to share their experiences.
The event took place at Üsküdar University’s Çarşı Campus, in the Yuşa Hall, and was attended by Instructor Kübra Akkalay, Specialist Orthotist-Prosthetist Tuğba Tanış, and prosthesis user Muhammed Erduran.
Tuğba Tanış: “You also need to identify the area you want to specialize in”
In her presentation, Tuğba Tanış offered advice to students: “Do not stick to one place. Do research, broaden your horizon. That will be the factor that makes you stand out wherever you go. Everyone can speak generally or provide basic information, but there must be something that sets you apart. You also need to identify the field you want to specialize in. I don't think it's possible for someone to be an expert in prosthetics, orthotics, scoliosis braces, and insoles all at once. You're either a specialist in orthotics, prosthetics, or insoles. The more you scatter your focus, the less likely you are to reach the top.”
Instructor Kübra Akkalay addressed the psychological impact of prosthesis use
Instructor Kübra Akkalay, Head of the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program, shared real-life stories reflecting the psychological effects of using a prosthesis. Akkalay stated that
“There was a steep hill in Küçükesat, Ankara. There was an elderly man around 70 years old living there who had undergone a below-the-knee amputation due to diabetes. He had no wife, and his children lived in Germany. In other words, he lived alone. I will never forget that. It was difficult even for me to climb that hill, but he came every day with crutches. He continued with determination, and in the end, we completed the prosthesis process. The last time I saw him, we sent him off happily, walking with a cane instead of crutches.
In the summer, a young man in his 20s came to us. He was a truck driver who had fallen asleep during a long trip and had a traffic accident, resulting in a below-the-knee amputation. His rehabilitation was relatively quick, and he recovered in about a month. However, his farewell was very different. As he was leaving, he put his prosthesis in a plastic bag and simply walked out. That elderly man had no one. For him, the prosthesis meant everything, and it was like a rebirth. But the young man’s situation was much different. His life changed in an instant, and he couldn’t even come to terms with it. In fact, we should have been able to send him off much stronger and more prepared. But he put the prosthesis in a bag and just walked away…”
Muhammed Erduran: “This approach may not be suitable for everyone”
Emphasizing that individuals who have difficulty accepting the process may require a different language and support approach, Muhammed Erduran stated that “The term ‘visually impaired’ is unfamiliar and uncomfortable for many individuals. A large number of people experiencing vision loss do not adopt this terminology. Similarly, there are individuals who prefer the term ‘Deaf’ over ‘hearing impaired,’ as that is how they identify themselves. Of course, this approach may not be suitable for everyone. Especially for those who have not yet accepted their condition, who have withdrawn from social life, or become introverted, a different tone and form of support may be necessary.”
Hands-on training session conducted
A practical demonstration of measurement techniques was carried out with students in an interactive Q&A format.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the guests, followed by a group photo session.
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)