Three must have Devices Post Stroke.

Only 6 short years ago, I could not, and had no reason to write this article.  However, I wish someone did, and showed it to us.  It may have made the world of difference for me, and that is why I am writing it today.  You may know someone you can pass this along to, so please do.  I also hope, that you never need this information, but if I was you, I would read through it and file it away, just in case.

Personally, I suffered two Strokes in May 2016, and stumbled upon this information, or my wife did.

Here are the three most important devices you must get if you or someone you know suffer a Stroke, and why you need them.

1. SaeboStretch.

• dynamic resting hand splint helps neurologically-impaired clients maintain or improve motion while minimizing joint damage and pain.
• It has energy-storing technology allows individuals suffering from spasticity to stretch comfortably and safely resulting in increased motivation and compliance.
• The SaeboStretch includes three interchangeable dynamic handpieces that can accommodate various levels of spasticity.
• Available in 5 sizes (XXS-L), and available in either Left or Right.

In plain terms, within hours , yes, within hours of suffering a Stroke, your body begin to change.  So insist on this device, or suggest this device to your doctor, as soon as possible.  Stay away from cheaper less effective devices, because at the end of the day, this is your future, and this is no time to cheap out, or try and save a buck or two, this is not the time or place.

Here is something we have realized about Medical Professionals, when they are dealing with a Stroke Survivor.  They always, always, always air on the side of caution, so that you cannot come back later and say "but you said".  Also Medical Professionals, even in 2022, are telling clients that whatever you get back in the first 6 months to one year is what you get back post Stroke.  Nothing can be further from the truth.

My doctors placed me in Continuing Care, and told my family that this is most likely as good as he gets.  I was lying in bed with tubes sticking out of my body, and paralyzed on the left side of my body.

            May 2016                                      May 2021

They were wrong.  

2. SaeboStep:

A lightweight, uniquely designed foot drop brace that provides convenience and comfort while offering optimum foot clearance and support during walking.  The absolute best solution for Foot Drop, while you are working on getting that movement back, and a long term solution in case it does not. 

Approximately 25-40% of Stroke Survivors suffer from Foot Drop, which is when you can’t raise the front part of the foot because of weakness or paralysis of the muscle that normally lifts it.

I had, and still have Foot Drop, over 5 years Post Stroke, and wear the SaeboStep on the beach or when walking near or in the water.  We originally were given another cheaper and less effective device, which proved to be cumbersome and less effective.  The SaeboStep, immediately solved that problem.   

Saebo has improved the original version of this device so that people with impaired arm / hand function can don this device with one hand, offering independence, and inspiring confidence for the Stroke Survivor.

 3. Electrical Muscle Stimulation:

I have mentioned this many times before, and here is why.  When I was at Inpatient Rehab, I had about three 1/2 hour sessions of EMS, and the therapist told me to try and move my foot up while the electrical stimulation was on during the Work / Rest mode.  After these 3 - 1/2 hour sessions, they told me to move my foot, which I could not.  So they said that EMS would not work for me. 

Wow, is all I can say now.  Since then we have learned that EMS, does three main things that are imperative in Stroke Recovery.  EMS aids in Muscle Re-education, increase or maintain your Range Of Motion, and help reduce your Spasticity. 

I still do 2-3 hours of Electrical Muscle Stimulation 2-3 hours per day on various muscle groups, 7 days a week.  

I have been asked, "Do these things really matter?"  I just know that they really helped me, and continue to help me as I continue to recover, one step at a time.

If a family member or friend of mine, had a Stroke today, they would have these three devices within a week.

If you need these devices, visit JGH Rehab 

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Reliance on any information provided by the JGH Rehab website is solely at your own risk.