Link April 2017 | Page 9

best foot forward ...wearing a specially designed shoe insole... could help people affected by MS to walk better. An international team of researchers is on the look-out for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) to trial a new specially designed shoe insole aimed at improving mobility. The University of Queensland study is seeking 176 people affected by MS to take part in a three-month “We now need people with MS to “Therefore, wearing a specially trial of the insoles. help us investigate whether the novel designed shoe insole, which insoles influence the way the leg and enhances sensory information “Many people with MS experience trunk muscles work while walking on at the feet, could help people problems with walking which can both even and uneven surfaces.” affected by MS to walk better. “ and often leads to falls, so improving The study will also look for changes To be eligible for the study, walking ability is of primary in the perception of foot sensation participants must be over 18 importance in maintaining health, and the awareness of foot position. years of age, diagnosed with MS, make day-to-day activities difficult able to walk 100 metres either independence, and quality of life,” “Foot sensation plays an important independently or with a mobility role in keeping the body upright aid, and have no other neurological “Evidence suggests that wearing and balanced when walking, yet conditions or cognitive impairments. textured shoe insoles, which are we know from previous studies designed to stimulate receptors on that people with MS often have Interested participants should the soles of the feet, may be one poor sensation on the soles of their contact Dr Anna Hatton on possible option to help improve gait. feet,” Dr Hatton said. [email protected], lead researcher Dr Anna Hatton said. ph: (07) 3365 4590. new uni course business frameworks of the NDIS to focuses on NDIS deliver client-focused services. The Australian-first course has The University of New England has introduced a Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development, with the next intake in June 2017. been developed in consultation with several New South Wales- The program aims to ensure... a sound grasp of the legislative frameworks [of] the NDIS based disability organisations to ensure it provides the skills and interpreting relevant legislation knowledge the sector requires. and understanding its application and impact on the disability sector. Offered in an online study mode, The program aims to ensure and taking up to two year’s part- students obtain a sound grasp UNE said the course was suitable time to complete, the qualification of the legislative frameworks for existing managers, as well as aims to help workers in disability underpinning the NDIS, and those seeking to advance their organisations navigate the legal and develop professional skills in careers in the disability sector. linkonline.com.au news 07