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How does the SaeboFlex work?

How does the SaeboFlex work?

The SaeboFlex re-educates your hand and wrist to allow you to regain some of the lost function.

Many individuals have goals to regain upper limb function. Good results are often seen in the lower limb but many individuals feel that their upper limb has been neglected in previous therapies or has not made improvements as they had wished. Many individuals are able to close their hand, but are unable to open it and this limits therapy.

The reason many individuals are unable to use their hand properly is due to significant imbalances in muscle strength and the tightening of soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments and tendons. The SaeboFlex system overcomes this using a system of springs to assist with the opening of the hand. The patient then uses their own muscles to close the hand; resulting in a functional hand. The spring system can be altered to reduce or increase the level of assistance. The SaeboFlex is only required to be worn during the exercise sessions.

SaeboFlex patients re-learn how to use their hands over months of therapy. The SaeboFlex assists with the 'forgotten' skill of opening the hand. Although the SaeboFlex unit attaches onto the forearm and hand it also provides great benefit to the whole of the affected arm. Improvements are also seen in the control and movements of the shoulder and elbow, as well as improvements in the hand and wrist.

Below is a video showing Jim, a stroke survivor, trying SaeboFlex for the first time. The first video shows Jim unable to pick up the ball, as he cannot open his hand. The second video, with the SaeboFlex, shows Jim able to pick up the ball.

Below is a video showing Jim, a stroke survivor, trying SaeboFlex for the first time. The first video shows Jim unable to pick up the ball, as he cannot open his hand. The second video, with the SaeboFlex, shows Jim able to pick up the ball.

The SaeboFlex was developed in 2002 by two American Occupational Therapists and remains a completely unique product. Exercises for arm function are notoriously difficult for patients to complete at home. The SaeboFlex is used in treatment sessions and in a home exercise programme. While parts of the brain that previously knew a certain function may be damaged, the SaeboFlex helps to create new pathways for old activities through repetition.

SaeboFlex

To book an assessment or for more information please email office@manchesterneurophysio.co.uk call 0161 883 0066 .