Prevention of disability in leprosy.

Leprosy is curable now-a-days if initiatives are taken for prevention of disability along with complete and regular chemotherapy. Common disabilities encountered in leprosy are: Claw hand, foot drop, lagophthalmos, plantar ulcers and depressed bridge of nose. Objectives of prevention of disabilities are preservation of nerve function, preservation of vision, to regain functional ability and self-esteem. Measures to prevent disabilities include early diagnosis and treatment with effective chemotherapy, to train leprosy cases to perform self-care practices, providing them with protective aids and referring the cases for surgery if indicated. Lepra reactions are episodes of sudden increase in the activity of the disease. Lepra reactions are treated by bed rest, analgesics rest to affected nerve by splints and a suggested course of prednisolone. Besides, leprosy-affected persons should be encouraged for self-care practices. Counselling and holding care and concern camps (POD camps) are very much integrated wtih the prevention of disabilities.