SAEBOFLEX or SAEBOREACH
SAEBOFLEX
The SaeboFlex allows individuals suffering from neurological impairments, such as stroke, the ability to incorporate their hand functionally in therapy and at home. These unique orthoses position the wrist and fingers into extension in preparation for object manipulation. The user is able to grasp objects by voluntarily flexing his or her fingers. Once the fingers relax (stop gripping), the extension spring system assists in re-opening the hand to release the object.
SAEBOREACH
The SaeboReach is a dynamic custom fabricated elbow, wrist, hand, and finger orthosis. The SaeboReach consists of a combination of the SaeboFlex and a custom fabricated above-elbow component. The orthosis features an elbow extension system. The elbow extension system provides assistance in straightening the arm so functional reaching is possible. The SaeboReach was specifically designed for individuals that have limited hand and elbow function.
How does it work?
- The SaeboFlex and SaeboReach are splints that allow an impaired arm and hand to regain function.
- Normally, clients that have suffered a neurological injury such as stroke are unable to open or extend their fingers and their hand often is in a clenched or closed position.
- The SaeboFlex assists with hand opening and closing (grasping and releasing), while the SaeboReach, which includes the SaeboFlex, assists with both hand function and elbow straightening/arm reaching.
- The fingers and thumb are opened by a spring-loaded mechanism. These springs come in various tensions, depending on how much help the client needs to open his or her hand. The licensed therapist working with the client will decide which spring best fits his or her needs.
- Many times clients are not only unable to open their hand, but also have difficulty with extending their elbow. Because of this, the SaeboReach is a commonly prescribed treatment choice.
- By opening and closing the hand with the SaeboFlex or Reach, clients can retrain the brain and strengthen the muscles needed to perform daily tasks. It can also prevent tightening of the hand and shortening of the muscles, which can limit hand function even further.
- “If you don’t use it you will lose it.” With the client using his or her hand early and often following the injury, further loss of movement can be prevented and a faster recovery may occur.
What can I (or my patient) expect?
- Once the client receives the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach, his or her therapist will create a treatment plan to follow in the clinic and at home. A sample Saebo session may consist of various hand and arm activities and exercises that challenge the affected side.
- Often times, with the help of the Saebo splint, the client will be able to immediately (on day 1) use his or her impaired hand to grasp and release objects for the very first time. Many clients/family members (and therapists) enjoy this special moment as it provides excitement and encouragement that more recovery is possible.
- The SaeboFlex and SaeboReach have been used with thousands of neurological clients since 2001. Although results vary, many clients are able to regain lost movement over time.
- Common challenges like getting dressed, typing on a keyboard, or returning to work are now possible with Saebo.
- Like all medical treatments, the amount of recovery cannot be guaranteed, however, clients that are motivated and compliant with the daily home program tend to have better outcomes.
Is there any video evidence that this device may work for me?
As every Stroke or Brain Injury is different, so is the recovery. However, here are some videos showing various clients experiences using the SaeboFlex / SaeboReach.
SaeboFlex Patient Video Example - YouTube
Before and After SaeboFlex Treatment - YouTube
University of Missouri Working With The SaeboFlex - YouTube
How do I know if I need a SaeboFlex or a SaeboReach?
If you have limited or no use of your hand but your elbow is not affected, then the SaeboFlex may be appropriate for you. However, if you have limited or no use of your hand, AND you also have elbow limitations (weakness, increased tone etc…) that are impacting your functional independence, then the SaeboReach may be appropriate for you.
I had my stroke 10 years ago. Is it too late for me to start using the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach?
Absolutely not! When it comes to your health, recovery, and physical abilities, it is never too late to try. People up to 20 years post neurological injury can benefit from the orthoses. In addition, the ability to use the hand in therapy or at home has been reported as extremely motivating during the recovery process.
Can any therapist instruct me in how to obtain and use the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach?
No. Saebo equipment, especially the SaeboFlex/SaeboReach orthoses, are specialized patented devices. Occupational and physical therapists attend specific education classes offered by Saebo, Inc. to become trained in the orthoses.
How do I find a Saebo trained therapist in my area?
UNITED STATES
To find the nearest Saebo-trained clinician, in the US, please call 888-284-5433 to speak with a representative who can provide you with further details.
Saebo, Inc.
2459 Wilkinson Boulevard Suite 120-B
Charlotte, NC 28208
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: (888) 284-5433 Fax: (855) 414-0037
CANADA
To find the nearest Saebo-trained clinician, in Canada, please call JGH Rehab at 416-420-4052 to speak with Guy Harvey, who can provide you with further details.
55 Main Street North
Georgetown, Ontario
L7G-3H4
416-420-4052
jghrehab2018@gmail.com
UNITED KINGDOM
To find the nearest Saebo-trained clinician, in the UK, please contact:
Saebo UK Ltd.
uk.saebo.com
How can I find out if I am a good candidate to use the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach?
There are several ways to find out if you are a candidate, and depends on which country you live in. (See contact information above) However if you have any questions you can call 888-284-5433 and speak with one of our trained therapists about your current arm/hand function. Another way to find out if you are a good candidate is to meet with a Saebo-trained therapist. Saebo Instructors train therapists throughout the country. When a training session for therapists is going on in your area, it may be possible for you to be screened to determine if you are an appropriate candidate for the device. If a training session is not going on in your area, you may still search for a Saebo-trained clinician by using the zip code locator on this website. Enter your city, state, or zip code into the locator at the bottom of this page or call Saebo, Inc. toll free at 888-284-5433. As therapists are trained, their information is posted on our website at Recover From Your Stroke With Saebo | Saebo.
Is there a way I can try the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach for free?
Yes. Saebo, Inc. instructors travel to cities across the country to train therapists. At each course, the instructors arrange to have three to four stroke survivors demonstrate the use of the Saebo orthoses to the class. This gives the therapists a chance to see how they work in a real situation, and also gives the patient a chance to see if it is appropriate for them. If you are a stroke survivor and would like to demonstrate the SaeboFlex and SaeboReach at one of our courses throughout the country, please call us at 888-284-5433 or email us at sales@www.saebo.com
For Free Trials in Canada, contact JGH Rehab, or call 416-420-4052
For Free Trials in the UK, contact Saebo UK, or call 01707 323 633