Preventing joint pain from worsening is one of the functions of many assistive devices available on the market. The variety of these instruments is almost as wide as the variety of movements that are possible, and they serve as a great help in maintaining autonomy. In this article we will review the most commonly used ones. Read on!
What are assistive devices?
This equipment is intended for people who have some limitation or disability, for example, those who suffer from arthritis or osteoarthritis. Their function is to reduce or compensate for them, with the aim of carrying out daily tasks as independently as possible. They are broadly divided into mobility aids and technical aids for daily living.
Mobility aids
They are used as a walking aid and many models are available, each with different indications. For this reason, the physician, occupational therapist or kinesiologist will evaluate their usefulness for each patient on an individual basis.
In general, they distribute loads to help relieve pain or maintain balance. Another relevant aspect is that you learn to use them correctly, avoiding falls or other accidents.
The cane
It goes on the side opposite to the injured side and the ideal height of the hand should coincide with that of the greater trochanter. This is the name of the bony prominence of the femur at the hip. There are several designs of canes, among which the following stand out:
- The hand cane has an aesthetically pleasing appearance, supports up to 25% of the body weight and is lightweight. It should be used with the elbow flexed at an angle of 20 degrees.
- The English cane has an additional support, a brace at the level of the forearm, so the weight it can receive is up to 45%. The elbow must be positioned at an angle of 30 degrees, which contributes to propulsion, with the disadvantage that it requires good trunk mobility.
- The multi-podal cane, with several supports, provides great stability and is ideal for balance problems. However, it can be very heavy or difficult to carry on rough terrain or stairs.
Crutches
The crutches are adjusted with the patient standing and the trunk upright so that the upper support is 5 centimeters from the armpit. The handle should be at the necessary height to allow the elbow to flex between 20 and 30 degrees.
Depending on the type of injury, you may need to use one or two crutches, but in any case, you must learn how to use them when going up or down stairs. The material should be light and strong, preferably aluminum or carbon fiber, as wooden crutches are usually heavier.
Technical aids for daily living
Technology provides you with a huge variety of solutions that assist you in daily activities, such as grooming or eating. Many of them are ergonomic and lightweight, which reduces strain and joint pain. In other cases, they are designed to replace restricted movements, which without assistance would be very difficult to execute.
However, their usefulness goes beyond that, because they also contribute to slowing down the progression of some joint pathologies. As with ambulation aids, it is essential that a professional assess your situation so that you can use those designed for fine motor skills.
When eating or drinking
With the adapted kitchenware it is possible to cook food and eat in a more independent way. You have a wide variety: boards that are fixed, spatulas with angled handles, universal openers and ring pullers on bottles, jars or cans. With the tube emptyers and plate holders you can make these tasks virtually effortless.
Toileting aids
Many contribute to increased safety, such as handholds, boards and seats used in the bathtub. Others make tasks easier, and you’ll find adapted nail clippers, flexible-handled brushes useful when washing or applying lotions, and levers for turning faucets. Toilet lifts with armrests ensure that you can safely get in and out of the bathtub.
When dressing
Here you will also find practical and ingenious tools. The most common are buttoners, zipper pullers, shoehorns and shoehorns or laces that tie without knots.
In leisure activities
There are specially adapted tools for gardening or reading, such as bookends or page turners. Thickeners increase the diameter of various tools and improve the grip. In addition, there are adapted writing devices and mice.
Thanks to technology, there is a wide range of tools that allow you to maintain your independence despite joint pain. On our website you will find much more information, do not miss what Phytogen Medical Foods has to offer!
