Adaptive Equipment Following Spinal Cord Injury

By: Tori Billings, MOT, OTR/L

Universal Cuffs

Globally, there are more than 15 million people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI can often limit your physical capacity to perform certain tasks; however, with modifications and the integration of various pieces of adaptive equipment, you can continue to be independent and engage in meaningful daily activities. Below are the top 3 recommended adaptive equipment devices for individuals with spinal cord injury.

1. Mobile Arm Support

Mobile arm supports provide support to your weakened arm by facilitating movement and enhancing function. These devices can either be mounted to a tabletop or attached to a wheelchair, allowing versatility among tasks for which you can utilize them. Common uses of a mobile arm support during everyday tasks include eating, brushing your teeth, combing your hair, writing, and page turning while reading a book.

2. Leg/Thigh Lifters

Leg and thigh lifters can be used to increase independence when moving your legs from surface to surface. This includes, but is not limited to, in and out of bed, on and off wheelchair footplates, or in and out of the car. If you have decreased hand strength or dexterity, the loops on the end of the lifters allow you to utilize strength from your wrist or forearm instead.

3. Universal Cuffs

Universal cuffs, or u-cuffs, can be used to maximize independence for grasping and manipulating objects with your hands. These devices typically slide across the palm of your hand and come in different sizes, shapes, and materials that allow for versatility among grasping objects, making them “universal.”

Sheltering Arms Institute helps individuals who have experienced a spinal cord injury achieve their highest level of functional independence through specialized, comprehensive care driven by innovation, technology, and outcomes. To learn more about our elite spinal cord injury care, visit our program page, contact us online, or call (804) 764-1000.

*This blog post is not sponsored by any product or brand mentioned herein. The examples and opinions expressed are solely those of the author based on their research, knowledge, and experiences. Furthermore, Sheltering Arms Institute cannot guarantee the quality or consumer satisfaction of the products listed here.

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