Adaptive Equipment for a Hemiplegic

Hemiplegia is a neurological condition involving weakness or paralysis of one side of the body involving the upper and lower limbs. The disability to carry out motor functions significantly affects a hemiplegic's activities of daily living. Adaptive equipment is available to provide support to carry out functional activities designed to meet the special needs of a hemiplegic to promote independence in self care, mobility and safety.

Ambulation Aids

• A crutch is an assistive device providing safety in walking.

  Assistive devices for mobility can help in transferring the weight of the body for adequate support during ambulation. The kind of ambulation aid to use depends on the level of assistance required by the condition of a hemiplegic. Different types of walking devices include canes, walkers and crutches. Walkers provide the most support while a cane is suitable for hemiplegics who require the least support. These forms of adaptive equipment aim to ease the weight from the lower limbs, reduce pain, improve balance and provide sensory feedback.

Orthoses

• According to the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, muscle weakness and abnormal movement synergies of the lower limb contribute to the abnormal gait pattern among hemiplegics. Because of these conditions, there is an increased risk to fall and increased energy expenditure for walking. Ankle-foot orthoses provides adaptive equipment designed to assist a hemiplegic for better balance and support for ambulation. It provides better control of forward progression of the lower extremity with improved toe clearance.

Transfer Devices

• In severe hemiplegia, or where the patient is unable to perform daily activities independently, transfer equipments are required to provide stable support for transfer. A plastic or wooden board provides assistance in performing slide transfer in cars, bed, tub, toilet and chair. Hydraulic lifts are available for heavy patients who cannot bear weight on their legs. Guard belts are also available to support the weight of a hemiplegic during gait training.

Grooming and Self Care

• Long-handled dressing sticks and elastic shoe laces help compensate for the limited reaching ability of hemiplegics. Combs, toothbrushes and devices with large hand grips are available to compensate for weak grasp. Raised seats for toilet and bath and the use of hand railings provide better balance, stability and safety.

Eating Devices

• Eating utensils with built-up handles are useful for a weak grasp. There are also utensils designed for one-hand use, such as plate guards and scoop dishes. Cups that hold liquid in a way that assists in drinking without tilting the head too much is beneficial for patients at risk of aspiration and swallowing difficulty.