Wrist cuffs can be used when the grip strength or hand function is limited. Wrist cuffs can
be attached to weight equipment and enable the individual with little or no grasping
ability to use the equipment as needed. Secure the cuff around the participant's wrist, making
sure it is snug but not too constricting. Check the cuff before beginning exercise to
ensure that it is securely fastened.
Grasping cuffs. A grasping cuff is designed to provide a secure grip to those with limited
hand function or lack of strength. It firmly secures the affected hand in a sustained grasp
for exercise. Velcro straps fasten along the top of the cuff and the wrist, with an opening
for the thumb to allow for a more secure grip. Before you fasten the velcro, be sure the
hand is in a natural position around the object, and that it is comfortable for the participant.
Do not force the hand into a postion that is painful or too uncomfortable.
The Nu Step Glove helps the individual grip the Nu Step handle and maintain a neutral
wrist position during exercise. The Nu Step glove supports the wrist while preventing
wrist flexion, and keeps the hands in place on the handles. Velcro straps fasten around
the wrist and over the top of the fingers to sustain hand position. Make sure that the
participant's arm can fully extend comfortably for the exercise before securing the glove.
Additionally, ensure that the participant's hand is in a natural, comfortable position
before fastening the glove.
Ankle weights are weighted cuffs that fasten around the ankle or the wrists. They can be
used by individuals that may have difficulty grasping free weights to provide added resistance.
Secure the ankle weight around the participant's ankle, ensuring it is snug but not constricting.
The high boot is a piece of equipment that can be used in place of a pedal on the Sci-Fit
Pro II recumbent bike. The high boot is used for foot, ankle and lower leg stability, allowing
the participant to engage in the exercise as intended. Be aware that if the participant
is wearing an ankle-foot orthosis or any type of other assistive device on their lower leg,
their leg might not fit in the boot. An ankle-foot orthosis, also known as an AFO, is an externally
applied brace intended to control the position and motion of the ankle, and compensate for
weaknesses or correct deformities. Do not force their leg into the boot because you
may compromise their circulation. If this occurs, ask the participant if he or she is
comfortable taking off their assistive device so their lower leg can fit comfortably into
the boot for exercise.
The low boot is a piece of equipment that can be used in place of a pedal on the Sci-Fit
Pro II recumbent bike. The low boots are used for foot stability. Place the participant's
foot onto the boot and secure the strap. If an assistive device makes it difficult, place
the participant's foot on the boot. Ask if you are able to remove it for this exercise.
Make sure the participant is comfortable and the strap is not too tight around his or her
foot.
A power web is a lightweight, inexpensive 14-inch rubber mesh exercise ring that comes
in a variety of resistances. A power web strengthens the fingers, hands, wrists, and forearms.
The more width between the fingers and the web, the greater the resistance will be. Grasp
onto the web and squeeze your fingers together.
The flex bar with the waffle surface is used for wrist, forearm and hand strengthening,
and can also be used for upper extremity stabilization. The flex bar has 3 different resistance levels,
with red having the least resistance, green being in the middle, and blue having the most
resistance. The participant will hold the bar with about 8 inches in between their hands,
and push their hands down towards each other making an upside down "U" shape.
Stabilizing straps and gait belts are used for individuals who have difficulty with balance
and stability. These will aid in proper seating and positioning in a wheelchair or on an exercise
machine. When strapping the participant, make sure the strap or belt is securely fastened
around the participant, but not so tight that it is constricting.
Sci-Fit Pro II recumbent bike handgrips. The Pro 2 has different types of handgrips to
adjust to the individual as needed. If the individual has compromised grip strength,
a glove can also be worn during exercise.