All You Need to Know about a Transfer Board

Despite everyone wishing to retain their independence throughout their life, an injury, a health condition or age-related issues may at times deprive people from that. Thanks to the availability of gadgets and disability aids like crutches, walking sticks, etc., people with mobility limitations can also improve their quality of life.

Among several other challenges a common these people face is while moving from one surface or position to another. For example, moving a person on a wheelchair to a couch can be difficult. Nevertheless, a disability aid like a transfer board can save your day.

It is a disability aids made up of either wood or plastic that assists the transfer of patients in a variety of situations. like getting in and out of a car.

People with leg or back injury, knee, ankle or foot surgery, arthritis, osteoporosis, or lower body paralysis may benefit from this aid. Further, this aid is also beneficial for people with their balance issues and are at the risk of falling while moving between positions or surfaces.

Following are the common designs and shapes this aid is available in:

• Traditional boards of rectangular shape
  
  
• Curved boards convenient for side transfers.
  
  
• S-shaped boards convenient for transferring around the arm of a chair.
  
  
• Boards with integrated handles that are very handy and easily portable.

There are two major types of transfer boards.

1. Wooden boards: The constituent material is good quality plywood and polishing makes sliding easier.
   
   
2. PVC boards: Due to its plastic construct, this variant is easy to clean and suitable for self-transfer.

Besides these three general types, there is a transfer glide sheet that is similar to a board and another advanced variant that features a rotating seat to enable a smoother and stainless transfer.

Advantages of a Transfer Board

• As there is no complex mechanism involved, this disability aid is easy to use.
  
  
• Due to being compact in size, it doesn't occupy much space.
  
  
• The slip-resistant surface of this board helps mitigate the risk of slip and fall injuries.
  
  
• The ease of cleanliness and maintenance it offers facilitates ensuring its longevity.
  

Tips on Choosing the Right Board

Before you pick a variant, seeking a medical professional's advice is highly recommendable.

Below are some general points to keep in mind while purchasing this aid:

• The board you select should be sturdy and capable enough to bear the user's weight.
  
  
• The variant you pick should have a smooth surface to ensure that there is minimum friction and risk of developing a sore skin.
  
  
• The board should have elements like a non-slip pad to ensure extra safety
  
  
• The board should be material waterproof, stain-resistant, durable and easy to clean.
  
  

Steps to Follow to Use the Board

Suppose that you want to move from your bed to wheelchair; you should follow the steps below:

• Bring the wheelchair first close to the bed.
  
  
• Sit on the side of the bed in a way that your feet lay flat on the floor.
  
  
• Remove the armrest and apply breaks to the chair.
  
  
• Lean your body in the opposite direction of the board.
  
  
• Slide one part of the board under your bottom and slowly keep sliding along the board with the help of your hands.
  
  
• When you are closer to the wheelchair, hold the other armrest and slowly remove the board.

Safety Measures to Follow while Using the Board

• Read and follow the instructions in the user manual properly. Pay special attention to weight capacity and care and maintenance instructions to ensure safety and longevity.
  
  
• Before every use, ensure that the board doesn't have any manufacturing defects. If you find any, refrain refrain from using it unless you get defect(s) fixed or replace the board.
  
  
• Wear comfortable clothes, preferably cotton to minimize friction and prevent development of sore skin. Lay your hands in a way that your fingers don't get stuck beneath the board.

Final words:

A transfer board is one of the most commonly used disability aids. Just like you do with other disability aids, it assists people with mobility restrictions and transfer themselves from one surface to another. By taking proper safety measures, you can make the most out of this aid.

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All You Need to Know About Bath Seats And Bath Steps

 A slippery floor in a bathroom can increase the risk of slip and fall injuries - especially for the elderly and people with mobility issues. Therefore, health professionals recommend using bathroom aids to minimize the risk of falls or slips after a thorough assessment of the patient's condition.

These aids can not only help prevent fall injuries but also enable people with mobility issues to use the bathroom conveniently and retain their independence.

Among a number of bathroom aids out there, bath seats and bath steps are quite common and popular. They not only ensure safety in the bathroom but also help relieve strained muscles and pain.

Keep reading to know in detail how these two aids can be beneficial for you.

1. Bath Seat

A bath seat provides a platform to sit on which helps to get in and out of the bath. It is lightweight, features a handle for extra support, and generally has adjustable height or width.

For people with mobility issues or the elderly, weakened muscle and bones or other medical conditions combined like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's Disease, etc. may lead to balance issues. A bath chair or seat can be of help to tackle such conditions.

Advantages

• Enhanced Safety

  A bath seat is safe even when completely immersed in water. It reduces the chance of falling and in a way helps assure the users that they are safe and won't fall. This assurance enables the user to relax and bathe enjoyably without worries.
  
  

• Improved Hygiene

  At times, the elderly people fear taking a bath and start avoiding it out of the fear of falling. If prolonged, lack of hygiene may lead to infection or other skin problems.

  Installing a bath aid like a seat reassures them that they are safe and encourages them to use the bathroom without any fears. Once they gain enough confidence, they stop refraining from bathing.
  
  This, in turn, helps maintain their personal hygiene.in a better way.
  

• Increased Independence, Confidence, and Freedom

  Asking for help in routine hygiene tasks could be embarrassing sometimes and make people feel vulnerable and dependent. One of the biggest benefits this aid offers is that it helps reduce dependence on care providers. This way, it plays a crucial role in increasing independence and self-confidence.
  

Bath Step

A bath step is another convenient and affordable aid to make bathing easy for the elderly or those with mobility issues. It is a stool or box with a stable and adjustable platform to provide assistance when stepping in and out of the bath.

As people grow older, they may start feeling a loss in their strength. Sometimes, a small action like lifting the foot can also feel difficult.

Here comes into play a bath step that helps reduce the efforts to get in or out of the bathtub.Secondly, by providing an elevated surface to the user, this aid helps prevent fall or slip injuries to a great extent.

Advantages of a Bath Step

• Some variants have a padded top surface. This padding helps ensure a secure, non-slippery, and a comfortable hold.
  
  
• In case the bathtub is slightly more elevated than normal, positioning a bath step next to it adds some extra inches and can help get in and out of the tub more easily.
  
  
• Owing to it being lightweight, shifting this aid from one place to another is easier. Also, all its variants generally come with built-in handles that make their positioning easier.
  
  
• As this aid eliminates the need to lift the leg very high, people with posterior pain can get relief with minimised movements and alleviate their pain.
  
  
• Generally, materials used in a bath step are non-corrosive like aluminum that ensure its durability and longevity.

Summing Up

Stepping in and out of the bathtub and shower area safely is of utmost important to prevent the risk of fall injuries. Bathroom aids like bath seats and bath steps help minimize the risk of falls and make the use of bathroom safe and convenient for the elderly and people with mobility limitations. These bath aids not only add to the safety but also help increase self-reliance and confidence of users.

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Using Disinfectant in the Bathroom and Around the Home

Since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, there has been a massive increase in the use of disinfectants. Government guidance has highlighted the importance of hand-washing and hygiene in homes, workplaces and public spaces. Hospitals, schools, factories, shops, transport, offices, hotels and restaurants are all required to adhere to a regular ‘deep clean’ in order to reduce the chances of Covid transmission.

Disinfectant is a key product that helps in the fight against Covid and also reduces the chances of infection from other viruses and bacteria. Essential Aids offer a wide range of disinfectant wipes that provide a convenient, cost effective, easy to store way to protect against germs and prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and virus particles.

High touch places such as bannisters, handles and toilet seats are particularly likely to be areas of infection transmission, due to the number of people who could potentially come into contact with these surfaces. Having a handy pack of disinfectant wipes in your home or bag is an easy way to alleviate any worry.

At home, disinfectant wipes are a very fast way of sanitizing an area quickly. Unlike traditional disinfectant, wipes don’t have to be diluted in a bucket of heavy water - which is especially useful for those with limited mobility and strength.

There’s also no worry about what to do with the cloth afterwards because wipes are easily disposed of in the bin. Many wipes nowadays are more environmentally friendly and will decompose over time.

It’s important not to flush disinfectant wipes down the toilet, because they can block up the sewerage system and cause a great amount of inconvenience and expense for water companies (the cost of which is passed onto the consumer through higher prices).

Using antibacterial wipes in the bathroom is especially good for toilet handles and bath aids such as boards, shower stools, toilet seats and grab rails. The wipes can take a few minutes to work, but unlike soap and water it will kill germs, rather than reduce them. This then prevents cross-contamination which will give the elderly and vulnerable peace of mind. Bath aids which are used regularly and left to air-dry may benefit from regular wiping down.

Disinfectant wipes and personal wipes

It is important to highlight the difference between disinfectant wipes and personal wipes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has insured that all sanitizers and disinfectants are properly labelled with warnings to guard against people accidentally using these for personal care. In fact, most disinfectant wipes will have guidance on the packaging stating that gloves should be worn while using them or that your skin and hands should be washed immediately after use. Accidental use of disinfectant wipes as personal wipes is likely to cause an allergic reaction and rash, so care and attention needs to be made to separate the two different kinds of wipes.

Disinfectant wipes and sanitizing wipes

Sanitizing wipes or ‘antibacterial’ are the kind used on hands, body and face. But there are so many different products on the market that it is always worth taking the time to read the product label properly so that the user is confident about the purpose for which the wipes are intended.

For example, antibacterial hand wipes may not be suitable to use on more intimate areas of the body due to their ingredients. Rest assured there should always be guidance on the product description.

Antibacterial and Disinfectant wipes

Antibacterial is another word for sanitizing. They tend to reduce germs and cleanse hands and skin, whereas disinfectant wipes have harsher chemicals that are strong enough to dissolve the cell wall of most bacteria. In summary, disinfectant wipes are much more useful and effective than antibacterial wipes in destroying bacteria, fungi and viruses that can live on surfaces.

How to use wipes

This may seem obvious, but studies have shown that using wipes incorrectly may actually contribute to the spread of bacteria and harmful germs. A Cardiff University research team conducted surveillance on hospital staff and their use of antibacterial wipes to decontaminate surfaces.

Areas such as monitors, bed rails, tables and key pads were all swabbed prior to and after antibacterial wipes were used. The study found that when the antibacterial wipes were being applied to the same surface several times and then used on consecutive surfaces, these actions actually transferred bacteria rather than eliminated bacteria.

This suggests that each wipe should be used on one area of 1-2 square feet max and discarded straight away. Furthermore, the surface should then be left to dry (which takes approximately four minutes) before the surface is decontaminated.

Other studies have shown that disinfectant wipes can have almost twice the effectiveness as cloth and bucket methods of cleaning because a higher percentage of chemicals are reaching the surface without being diluted by water or absorbed by the cleaning cloth. As well as being less effective, the cleaning cloths can also be a source of contamination if they’re left in a dirty bucket of cleaning solution.

Areas of use

Disinfectant wipes are only effective on certain surfaces. Areas such as upholstery or curtains, are definitely not suitable for use with disinfectant wipes because the alcohol can stain or fade fabrics.

Similarly, using wipes on untreated wood is also not advisable because untreated or unpainted wood is porous and disinfectant wipes could leave a noticeable stain.

You may think that leather car seats or a sofa may benefit from a quick wipe over with a disposable disinfectant wipe, but the alcohol in the wipes can make leather lose its natural oils and become brittle and dry.

Clothing spills should also not be cleaned with a disinfectant wipe, because the harsh chemicals may stain the fabric. Even an item like a dog bowl should be washed with soap and water because if your pet comes into direct contact with the chemicals in the wipes, they can be harmful to digest. If you do use the product for pet areas, allow to dry and then rinse with water afterwards.

The ideal areas for decontamination with disinfectant wipes are plastics, metals and treated wood. These are smooth, non porous surfaces that are easy and quick to sanitize effectively with a disinfectant wipe.

According to studies by the National Sanitation Foundation, there are specific areas in the home that contain the most bacteria and should be cleaned with a disinfectant wipe on a daily basis.

In the kitchen, cutting boards, Fridges (inside and out) and sinks and countertops are the most likely surfaces to be harbouring harmful bacteria. Other target areas in the kitchen which may be overlooked when cleaning are oven knobs, microwave and light switches.

In fact, all light switches throughout the home should be decontaminated along with door handles and stair rails. These surfaces are all touched multiple times a day by the occupants of the home and their guests and are perfect breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and viruses.

Other high-touch items that need regular disinfecting are remote controls and keyboards. One study by the University of Houston revealed that hotel remote controls contained the same amount of faecal bacteria as the hotel toilet.

The items we take outs with us also tend to be neglected when it comes to decontamination. Mobile phones, keys, wallets, lunch boxes and bags are all areas that need special attention when it comes to cleansing.

Because they’re our personal items, perhaps we assume that they’re cleaner than public areas, but, if you touch a handle on a bus and soon after reach for your mobile phone, the bacteria and germs have been transferred.

Disinfectant wipes don’t have to be expensive. If bought in multipacks they can be much more cost effective. It’s always important to remember to reseal the packet of wipes, otherwise the whole lot can dry out and render them all useless.

There is a concern about the environmental impact of using disposable disinfectant wipes. The Marine Conservation Society has seen a 400% increase in wet wipes found along our coastline which is a huge concern.

Nowadays manufacturers of wet wipes are encouraged to emphasise that these items are not flushable and must be disposed of in the general rubbish. In fact, there are numerous manufacturers who have responded to consumer demand and concern about wipes and are producing biodegradable wet wipes that are also free from microplastics.

How long these wipes take to break down in landfill is debatable and depends on the specific product. Some disinfectant wipe producers claim that their product takes only forty two days to biodegrade and use only plant based fiber. Certainly research into this area will continue, as our usage of disposable disinfectant wipes seems set to increase.

Disinfectant wipes are undoubtedly an easy, convenient and very effective way to tackle the spread of germs, whether they be viruses or bacteria. Living in the midst of a global pandemic has focussed everyone’s mind on the importance of sanitation and hygiene in the fight to stop the spread of Covid 19.

Disinfectant wipes have an important role in managing to curb the spread of disease, but it’s essential to know how to use them to prevent them causing cross-contamination of germs and irritation to skin. It’s also important to understand which surfaces to use disinfectant wipes on for optimum effectiveness. Another consideration is to prioritise which surfaces are most likely to harbour germs and last but not least, how to responsibly dispose of them.

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Bed Sores: Causes, Stages And Using Pressure Cushions

Pressure sores may develop if you sit down or lie in the same position for a sustained period of time.

Also called bed sores or pressure ulcers, they are localised areas of skin which deteriorate, causing inflammation and sometimes bleeding to body tissue.

Parts of the body where bones are close to the skin’s surface are typically most at risk, like the tailbone, ankles, heels, elbows and in some cases the hips.

If you have lost weight, this may also lead to less fatty tissue, further increasing susceptibility.

People who are bedbound or whose condition means they are not able to use their usual range of motion, are the most vulnerable to bed sores.

Compressed blood vessels because of sustained pressure leads to restricted flow and a pressure sore develops.

There are several ‘stages’ of pressure sore, marking their degree of severity. Stage one is an inflamed area of skin, which does not become pale in colour when pressure is applied with the tip of the finger.

Stage two is an open sore or a blister, and the site of the lesion may cause irritation.

Stage three involves degradation through the whole depth of the skin through to the flat layer, creating a ‘crater’ in the surface of the skin.

Stage four sores are a depth of wound which reaches the underlying muscle, bone or tendon tissue.

General purpose of pressure relief cushions

The overriding goal of a pressure cushion is to reduce weight on a vulnerable site of the body. This is typically accomplished by spreading downward force over larger areas.

Cushions are also designed to cut friction which can occur when skin rubs against a surface and increase the likelihood of developing a sore.

Because they tend to be used for prolonged periods, most cushions for pressure sores are also ‘breathable’. This means they allow some degree of air flow, reducing the chance of sweat build-up on the skin’s surface, which may cause discomfort and worsen any lesions.

Risk levels

Dependent on their physical condition, there are also four levels of risk which someone might have of developing pressure ulcers: low risk, medium risk, high risk and very high risk. Essential Aids does a range of cushions designed for the various levels.

It is of vital importance that the level of risk for any individual is assessed by a doctor or other medical professional who has first-hand knowledge of the person concerned.

Generally speaking, cushions designed for low and medium risk individuals are made with foam, sometimes with gel or air filled pockets.

High and very high risk cushions may have cells powered by pumps, which move the precise location of weight, ensuring pressure is not maintained on a localised area of skin.

This type of cushion is sometimes called ‘active’, while the standard versions are ‘static’.

Choosing a cushion

It is essential that you receive guidance from a qualified medical professional who will assess your particular risk level and advise on the type of cushion which is suitable.

They will consider your specific personal circumstances in combination with the seating or bed in which you’ll be using the cushion.

Pressure relief cushions at Essential Aids

Essential Aids supplies a range of cushions, either for pressure relief or general wheelchair comfort. Here we’ll run down some of the most popular and talk about where they might be practical.

Foam cushions

A simple foam option is the Visco Wave Cushion, designed to be comfortable while distributing weight evenly.

The special ‘wave’ surface of the high density foam allows the skin to breathe while still being supportive.

It is a popular choice for wheelchair use or for day-care centres, for people in the low or medium risk of pressure sores category.

Like many in the Essential Aids range, it features a removable cover which can be easily cleaned.

This is also the case with the Coccyx Wave cushion. This is similar to the standard Wave, but provides extra comfort in the tailbone area.

Many people experience sensitivity in this part of the body, sometimes exacerbated by having to sit down in the same position for long periods of time.

As well as the wave pattern of the foam surface, the cushion features a special form insert, providing softer feeling padding at the base of the spine. Again, this cushion is great for wheelchair users.

Also designed for special localised pain relief at the base of the spine is the ‘Economy Coccyx Wedge’. Rather than having different foam for the tailbone area, this cushion has a cut-out so that it is able to ‘float’ without pressure or contact.

The wedge is designed to gently tilt the pelvis in a forward direction, assisting good spinal posture. Made from medium density polyurethane foam, it comes with a machine washable Velour cover and a carry handle.

A cost-effective and very popular option in this category is the ‘Harley Pressure-Tex Cushion’. Suitable for those at medium risk of pressure sores it is made of soft foam with crossed grooves cut into the top surface.

Its design makes for a ‘breathable’ pad which does not get too hot when in use. Like many of the Harley cushions, it comes with a removable Dartex cover which can be easily washed.

The Harley cushions are all available in a range of sizes, so you will be able to find one suitable for your chair.

Gel cushions

The pressure relieving properties of gel inserts have a long-standing reputation for effectiveness.

One of the best sellers of this type of cushion is the ‘Gel Cushion Plus’. It is constructed using a combination of high resilience foam, visco elastic foam and inserts of silicon gel.

It is suitable for people already experiencing pressure sores, as well as those in the high risk category of developing them. It is appropriate for use on wheelchairs seats, or other seating used for extended periods of time.

With a user-weight tolerance of up to 20 stone, the Gel Cushion Plus comes with a removable PU cover which features a zip opening. It also has a non-slip surface on the base, meaning it doesn’t slide around once in place.

This feature is something to consider when buying a pressure relief cushion. Depending on the seat on which it is used, some may have the potential to slip out of place.

The problem of sliding off of one’s seat is another issue faced by certain people because of their condition. We’ll come on to a product designed to solve exactly this problem further down.

Haemorrhoid cushions

Haemorrhoids impact many people in the UK and can cause great discomfort and pain when sitting down. One long standing method to combat this is the use of a ‘ring cushion’.

As the name suggests, these are circular cushions which have a central aperture where very little pressure is applied to the posterior and specifically the area of the haemorrhoids.

Essential Aids supplies a number of options to do precisely this job. The Dunlopillo Ring Cushion for example, has the classic round shape, with an aperture of around five inches in diameter.

Constructed from bacteria-static latex foam, it is supportive and comfortable to sit on. It is also available with a flame retardant cover.

The Harley Proform Cushion (Ringo) is another cost-effective model which has a cut out in the centre.

Made from very lightweight foam, it has a surface made up of small pyramids, promoting air-flow. This is aimed at keeping the user as cool as possible.

The weight of this cushion makes it easy to transport, and it comes with a cover made from faux suede, which is soft to the touch.

Pressure relief cushions for the severely overweight

Many standard pressure relief cushions have a user weight limit topping out at about 20 stone.

If you are overweight and in the bariatric category, you might need something more robust and specialist, especially if you are at high risk of pressure sores.

For those in this situation, the Harley Bari-Care Designer Sculpted Cushion might be the solution.

Suitable for individuals weighing up to 40 stone, it has a three-layer construction, each designed to work with the others to offer support and even weight distribution.

The contoured base of this wheelchair cushion is intended to keep the user in a good sitting posture and promote stability.

It is six inches deep, features welded seams, a two-way stretch vapour permeable cover and an anti slip coating on the base.

One-Way Seat Slide

Ideal for armchairs, wheelchairs or even in bed, the One-Way Seat Slide has an ingenious design which has an easy-slide surface.

This allows the sit to slide smoothly into position, but prevents the user slipping forward. While not a pressure relief cushion, it does have a removable foam pad, to improve comfort.

Using a leg rest

Some people find using a leg rest can considerably improve their comfort. These may be situated either in front of an armchair or sofa.

As well as the wide range of pressure relieving cushions Essential Aids supplies, there is an extensive range of leg and foot rests. We’ll come on to the details of some of the items in a future blog post.

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Getting Comfortable With Your Crutches

 If you’re using crutches for the first time because you’re recovering from an injury, or due to a chronic condition, there may be things you can do to make them more comfortable.

There are numerous types of crutches available, many of which differ markedly from the standard NHS models. As key mobility aids for many people across the UK, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the most out of them and that you’re aware of the extra pieces of equipment which may improve comfort.

Because of the variations in design, each can be set and enhanced in different ways, so here we’ll run down each type and talk about the things to think about in order to improve comfort.

Under-arm ‘axilla’ crutches

Axillary or ‘axilla’ style of crutch is hugely popular in the USA but less so in the UK, Europe and the rest of the world.

Its design is derivative of the original wooden crutch, with a horizontal resting pad right at the top, which fits under the armpit, with a split shaft below and a second horizontal pad for the hand to grip at around hip height.

Modern models are almost all manufactured using aluminium because of its light weight and rigidity. Previously, wood and even steel were used, with the steel in particular being rather heavy and unwieldy. Indeed, using steel for this kind of crutch would risk causing secondary injury purely because of the force required to use it.

While aluminium is an excellent material, partly because of its weight but also its anti-corrosive properties, most people still find axillas more difficult to use than elbow crutches.

We’ll come on to the design of elbow crutches soon, but one of the key differences is that axilla models simply require more material in their construction. This makes them intrinsically heavier.

The technique required to walk with them is also different. A common mistake is applying pressure through the armpit, resting one’s weight on the top pad.

This can lead to pinching nerves or inhibiting blood flow, so is to be avoided. It is important to size the crutches correctly so that a gap of at least the width of two fingers is present between the armpit and the pad.

Axilla crutches can usually be adjusted in two ways. The vertical shaft at the bottom can be altered in length so that the overall height of the device can be set as required. Also the handle height can be set in a similar way, adjusting using a second pin-clip mechanism.

With these two adjustments, the crutches can be set to suit most people’s frame and stature.

The user’s weight should be channeled through the arms and hands, without much pressure through armpit.

Some people feel it helps comfort by bolstering the padding at the top of the crutches. This can either be done using a specially made piece of material or by wrapping towelling around that area.

The problem with this is that it tends to significantly increase the height of the crutch and require more space in the armpit area. Because of the dangers associated with pinching in this area, it may not be a good idea in many cases.

The lower ‘handle’ of the crutches is somewhat different. With pressure going through the hands as you walk, extra padding in this area can be a good idea.

Simply increasing the diameter of the pad spreads weight across a larger surface area, improving comfort.

Again, you can use towelling taped to the grips for this purpose, or Essential Aids supplies specialist crutch pads which do a similar job, fixing by velcro.

Cushioning the grips can also be a benefit when using forearm crutches, and well come on to this shortly.

‘Forearm’ or ‘elbow’ crutches

Forearm crutches are sometimes referred to as ‘Lofstrand’ crutches, ‘Canadian’ or simply ‘elbow’ crutches. As with the axilla versions, sizing correctly is a vital part of making sure your forearm crutches are as comfortable as possible.

This design is the most popular in the UK and most of the world, excluding the USA. It has two main shafts: the main long one at the bottom and a second short one which fits behind the user’s arm.

Forearm crutches tend to be lighter in weight and most people find them easy to control. They do require a certain amount of upper body strength in order to balance and use correctly. Like axilla models, most modern designs are made from non-corrosive aluminium.

They are adjustable in total height via the variable length of the main bottom shaft. It comprises two tubes, one inside the other, which slide together or apart and fix at the desired point via a simple pin-clip.

In terms of setting the correct height of the handle, as a general rule, it should be set at the height of wrist crease, when your arms are hanging at ease to your sides. Once weight is then placed on the arm, it should be at a soft angle and have a very slight bend at the elbow.

Not having the arm fully straight is a key thing to think about when setting the height of the handle. In some cases, the upper shaft of the crutches also adjusts in length.

This means the plastic ‘cuff’ can be set to support the back of the forearm at the most comfortable and supportive position. The top of the cuff should be around two or three inches below the point of the elbow. Again, a pin-clip mechanism will allow you to set this top shaft at the desired length.

As with the axilla models, as you use the forearm crutches, the elbow should have a gentle bend of around 15 to 20 degrees.

This type of crutch comes with either an open or closed cuff. While open cuffs flare out, the latter wraps around the forearm so that if you release your grip on the handle, the crutch is caught by the cuff and doesn’t fall to the floor.

This is a useful feature for those who may have difficulty picking things up from the ground.

Handle comfort

The handles themselves come in various styles and choosing the right ones may have a dramatic impact on comfort.

Standard NHS models usually come with plastic grips. These tend to be quite narrow and you may find that they dig-in to the palms of your hands, particularly if used for sustained periods.

If this is a problem, many are now available with wide handles which spread weight much more evenly, reducing the extent to which they cut in-to your hands.

Some of these handles are not just wider than standard, but they also have an ‘ergonomic’ design. Here, the contours of the plastic match that of your hand, again helping with the even spread of downward pressure. Handles with similar characteristics are found on ‘fischer’ handled walking sticks.

The comfort of crutch handles can also be enhanced by using a plastic which is softer to the touch than standard PVC. In combination with ergonomic handles, this can be very effective.

This is the case with the ‘Soft Grip Comfort Handle Crutches’ at Essential Aids.

These popular models feature the contoured handles and plastic which is easy on the surface of the hands. They are also available in various colours, a vast improvement on standard-issue grey!

Essential Aids’ has some pads which fit over the handles of elbow crutches, making them wider and softer to the touch. Again, if you’re using them for long periods and you’re finding they dig-in to your palms, they might well make a difference.

The Harley Crutch/Comfort Pads are some of Essential Aids’ best sellers among crutches accessories. Made from visco elastic memory foam, they mould to the user’s hands and provide excellent weight distribution.

They have a waterproof outer covering and fix to the handles by means of velcro straps. They are particularly effective if you suffer from arthritis or other conditions which increase hand pain when pressure is applied d.

Arthritic or platform style mobility aids

For people with severe arthritis which makes holding conventional crutches too painful to be practical, Essential Aids supplies special crutches.

These ‘Elbow Crutches - Arthritic have a unique design which prevents weight being transferred through the hands, instead channelling it through the arms and shoulders.

This style of crutch has a distinctive horizontal ‘platform’ or ‘trough’ at the top, with a vertical handle at the end. The shafts of these mobility aids extends downwards from the middle of the trough down to the ground.

The user rests their forearms in the troughs and a strap holds them in place. This leaves the hands free to grasp the handles but without the burden of body weight. The exact positioning of the trough in relation to the handle can be set using a simple adjustment mechanism, meaning it caters for different arm lengths.

As the person’s weight is spread through the relatively wide area of the forearm, this style of walking aid can make a big difference to those with arthritic hands.

Source : 

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Wrist Support And Foot Support- Ways They Can Benefit You

People can experience bone, muscle, or joint pain at any point in their life - especially in their old age. Though there are a number of home remedies that may help manage these pains, orthopedic aids are more effective - specifically when the pain isn't easily manageable. They provide the necessary support to the affected body part(s). People who have undergone surgeries also find these aids useful for support.

Among a number of aids available for pain management, a foot or arch support and wrist brace are two of the most common among them. If you recently have had surgery or suffered from an injury or fracture in hand(s) or foot; they can be of help. 

However, consulting an orthopedic doctor is always recommendable before going for any of these aids. The reason is that they only will be able to assess your condition thoroughly, give you the best medical advice in this regard, and recommend the right variant. Moreover, a medical professional will also be able to guide you on how to use them properly and prevent any harm their improper use might cause.

To understand these two important orthopedic aids in detail and how they can help in general, keep reading ahead.

Benefits of Wrist Support

Wrist pain is a common incident, and there may be various reasons behind that.

For instance, excessive strain on wrists while typing or writing for long durations or a sport/gym injury can lead to wrist pain.

Besides, a surgery to fix a wrist or arm fracture can lead to postoperative muscular tension and can cause pain until complete healing.

Several medical conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, Ganglion cyst, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, Carpal Boss, Plantar fasciitis, fat pad atrophy, diabetic feet; etc. may also be the underlying cause of pain in the wrist(s).

A wrist brace can prove to be useful in a number of ways in these conditions.

Read on to know some general uses and benefits of a wrist brace.

• By keeping the affected wrist(s) in a straight and neutral position, immobilising the joint(s), and providing heat to the ligament(s), this aid helps mitigate the wrist pain.
• By providing support to weakened muscles after surgery, it can help expedite recovery.
• It can also help reduce swelling and inflammation and even irritation a person experiences post-operation.
• By restricting the excessive movement of the affected wrist(s), it stabilises the wrist and movement of fingers.
• It prevents repetitive strain on the wrist muscles.
• It enables damaged tissues to recover speedily.
• It also helps prevent wrist flexion or extension
• Materials used in wrist braces allow the skin to breathe and help increase comfort.
  

Benefits of Foot Support

A sprain in the ankle or foot can sometimes be a cause of unbearable pain. There are other reasons like walking, running, standing, or playing for long durations that can aggravate foot pain. Sometimes, neglecting pain for a prolonged period of time may lead to complex foot problems.

Therefore, consulting a medical expert in time and getting your condition examined is highly recommendable. In general, all foot supports consist of silicon or plastic and help reduce foot and ankle flexion to a minimum.

There are a number of general benefits it provides to users. It:

• Helps prevent and corrects foot deformities.
• Reduces the risk of further damage due to movement of the affected ankle/foot.
• Redirects the pressure away from painful areas to reduce extra swelling and pain.
• Provides appropriate support to the ankle so that it heals fast.
• Improves the overall balance by supporting your feet.
• The extra padding protects the sensitive areas of the ankle.
   

In a Nutshell

An orthopedic aid not only helps provide support to the injured or broken body part but also reduces pain and prevents further injuries or deformities. While pain can affect any body part any time, hands and feet become two common pain sites due to old-age related issues, injuries, or overuse. A wrist support and foot support are the two essential orthopedic aids that can help manage your hand pain and ankle pain respectively and provide great relief.

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Pill Boxes - Things to Think About When Organising Your Medication

Many people have health conditions that mean they need to take a lot of medicine, often on a daily basis. Keeping track of which pills you need and in what dose may take some organisation, so it’s worth thinking about how best to do it.

This can be a particular challenge for those of advanced years, whose memory may not be as sharp as it once was.

While your doctor or another medical professional should be able to advise you, there are also a handful of things you can do to make it easier. Here we’ll run down some of the best and give you a few details on how Essential Aids may be able to help.

Pill organiser boxes

These simple plastic devices are a cost-effective way of organising your medicine schedule.

They come with mini compartments within the main box which help you divide the pills into different days, or even times of the day.

It is important to note that while most medication can be stored in the same compartment as others for a brief period, you should discuss this with your doctor beforehand.

If you don’t want to use a purpose built pill dispenser box, you could use coloured bottles or label some other home-made boxes to store your pills.

Regardless of the method, it’s important that you take your time to put the correct pills in the right compartments. You many want someone to help you double check this process.

Essential Aids pill boxes

Essential Aids has a whole section of the website devoted to pill boxes called ‘Medicine Dispensers’.

Some are as described above, with compartments for different time-frames, while others have additional features like timers and alarms which notify someone when medicine is due.

The section also contains pill crushers, splitters and eye droppers.

Like many of the most popular pill storage containers, the ‘7-Day Extra Large Pill Box’ has a compartment for each day. The large internal boxes allow for a selection of tablets to be stored. It features flip-open lids which are very easy to use and click shut after use.

The extra size is not just helpful for capacity; it is also great if you have weak eyesight. The oversized box is also easier to handle for people with reduced manual dexterity or a hand tremor.

If you’re looking for a larger box with a larger number of compartments for more frequent tablet doses, the ‘Weekly Multi-dose Pill Box’ is clear and easy to use.

It can be used to organise weekly/daily medication required at up to four times per day. Alternatively, you can use it to organise monthly medication which is consumed once a day.

The labelling for each compartment is morning, noon, evening and night is printed normally and in Braille for those with weak eyesight. This kind of labelling is common to a number of pill boxes at Essential Aids.

A simple electronic tablet box with a reminder function is something which many people find helpful.

For those with memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s, it sounds two kinds of alarm at set periods - and audible alert and a visual flashing light.

The pocket-sized box has a cord to allow the device to be hung around the user’s neck.

Some pill boxes have a vibration alarm feature. The ‘Vibration 5 Alarm Reminder Pill Box’ at Essential Aids has a unique, compact shape which has five separate compartments for medication.

This clever device has a different alarm for each compartment. Each one has an option for an audible or vibrating alarm. These features make this particular box ideal for people with impaired eyesight or hearing. 

It has an attractive blue and white exterior and a digital time display.

At the advanced end of the scale in terms of functionality, is the ‘Automatic Pill Dispenser’. It is easily programmable to automatically dispense up to 28 pills a day.

At the programmed times it sounds an alarm and the correct dosage shows through the lid of the specific tablet box concerned. The alarm continues to go off until the pills are actually released.

It runs using AA batteries which last up to 12 months with everyday use. The unit has an extra alarm which sounds when the batteries are running low.

It is suitable for people with fairly extensive medicine schedules.

Other measures to stay organised with medication

As well as using purpose-made boxes for keeping track of your medication, there are other things you can do to stay organised.

You might for example, keep a written schedule. It’s usually best to get into a pattern of behaviour with your tables and to take them at the same time and if possible the same place every day, usually at home.

You might for example get into the routine of taking them after certain meals or when brushing your teeth first thing in the morning and/or last thing at night.

It is also advisable to fix a day of the week when you fill the pill organiser with tablets for the upcoming week. The more the various processes become ingrained in routine, the less the likelihood of something being forgotten.

Storing medicine in a certain place is also a good idea. An easy to remember cupboard or draw makes the most sense, where it won’t get overlooked.

Alarms are also useful to keep track of your schedule. If you use a mobile phone, there are apps available which allow you to set a time schedule and remind you when to take you tablets.

You can either set conventional alarms or even use apps that send you emails at pre-set times as reminders.

If you prefer more ‘analogue’ reminders, the good old fashioned wall-chart might be the way to go. Displaying it in a prominent highly-visible position should prevent you forgetting to look at it.

You can either download and print one or just make your own. Using colour codes for different days, times or medications is a relatively easy way of keeping things organised.

You can mark it with details not just about the times for consumption, but also doses and any relevant specifics like whether a particular tablet needs to be taken with food.

Remember, if you are creating a written chart, it’s a good idea to leave space to accommodate any future changes in prescription or doses.

Pill crushers and tablet splitters

As well as organiser boxes, Essential Aids also supplies small plastic devices which help break tablets down to manageable sizes. This makes them easier to swallow.

In years gone by, it was common for people to crush tablets down using a rolling pin or some other kitchen implement. This would inevitably lead to bits of tablets going astray.

Now there are small pieces of purpose-build equipment which do the same job, but more easily and efficiently.

The popular ‘Pill Splitter’ for example is a small plastic box into which a tablet is placed. The lid of the box is then levered downwards and a small metal safety blade splits the pill in two.

The Pill Splitter is designed in such a way as to catch the two parts of the tablet after it has been cut.

It can cut pills of up to half an inch in diameter and is suitable for coated and non-coated tablets. It can be washed in the dishwasher if it needs cleaning.

Another option is the ‘Screw-action Pill Crusher’, which as the name suggests lets you crush down tablets into small pieces. Some people who find difficulty in swallowing regular sized tablets choose to crush them down into fine pieces and either put them in drinks or food.

The screw action means less strength is required to use the device, so it is ideal for people with weakened hands or fingers.

As mentioned above, if the person is comfortable using a mobile phone, there are numerous apps available which can help schedule medication.

These clearly do not come with the inherent advantage of purpose built physical pill boxes, but they may be a good way to stay organised and stick to a medication schedule.

While there are many elderly people who are not comfortable with mobile phones and apps, those who are may find this an easy method. As with any battery powered device, it’s important to make sure it has adequate charge.

Things to consider when choosing a pill organiser

• How many tablets do you take each time?
• Do you have a suitable place which is easy to remember to store a pill organiser.
• Will you need an alarm?
• Is your lifestyle conducive remembering a medication regime?
• Is the number of tablets the same each time?
• Do you need a device which splits or crutches tablets too?

If you think you might have difficulty remembering your tablet schedule, it’s always best to discuss it with your GP or another medical professional who understands your personal circumstances.

They will be able to offer you advice on the type of equipment which might be of assistance.

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