jeudi 25 juillet 2019

There Is Lots Of Equipment For Paraplegics To Make Life Easier

By Edward Cole


Some people confuse quadriplegia with paraplegia. Both suffer from serious injuries to the spinal cord. However, quadriplegics are paralysed in both the upper and lower bodies while those suffering from paraplegia are paralysed in the lower body only. This means that they can normally still use their torsos and upper body limbs. Paralysis of the lower body is no small matter but with special equipment for paraplegics these patients can still live full, independent lives.

Mobility is the highest priority for the majority of paraplegia patients. Luckily, there are numerous types of wheelchairs designed for just about every possible situation. There are electric models, hand propelled ones, special chairs designed to be used for toilet purposes and even chairs that can help the patient to stand. There are also many different types of ramps that will allow a patient to access most places.

Because a paraplegic still have the use of his upper body, he can also become fully mobile with a specially adapted auto that needs only the use of the hands in order to operate. These vehicles can also be fitted with special hoists and racks to load and transport the wheelchair. Unfortunately, these conversions are incredibly expensive but the ability to travel truly frees paraplegia patients.

Most paralysed people do not want to be dependent upon other people. They want to do things for themselves and they want to cope with the demands of everyday life. Luckily, there are numerous products to help with this aim. Hoists and rails are designed to help patients move from a wheelchair to a bed or a couch and there are special devices that makes it much easier to get in and out of a bath.

Paraplegia patients even have a large choice of devices specially designed to keep them fit, to increase the flexibility of their bodies and to strengthen the muscles. These patients are especially prone to conditions that can develop if the muscles are not used or stimulated. If a paraplegic cannot afford these devices, there are always many gymnasiums that make provision for people with special needs.

Paraplegia patients do not have control over the functions of the lower body. This means that simple matters such as urinating can become a problem. Luckily there are many products such as catheters and other personal devices that can help to avoid embarrassment and to give the paraplegic some measure of control over his own toilet routine. Most medical insurance companies will cover the cost of these products.

Sadly, many of the devices and products designed to make life easier for paraplegia patients are expensive. Medical insurance will cover the cost of certain types of products but even them a limit is placed on the cost of a specific device such as a wheelchair. The alternative is to look for good quality second hand devices or to approach charity organizations specializing in helping disabled people to live independently.

It is a challenge to live life as a paraplegic. Fortunately, much can be done to help these patients to live independent lives, to keep working and to adapt to their circumstances. Hopefully, these products and devices will become more affordable in order to improve the lives of many more unfortunate people.




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