Situation:
Amanda (Quadriplegic) has spent years trialling all the standard available binders following an accident where she broke her neck. For years she was unable to find one that would last longer than 2 months, without rubbing, rolling up or cutting into her skin.
Without a suitable binder Amanda, like many wheelchair users, faced the development of an asymmetrical posture, collapsing in her spine and loss of mobility.
Task
Over time as a person adapts to many hours a day in a wheelchair their posture can deteriorate unless assisted. All binders provide some support, but we were looking for a binder that was comfortable enough that clients will continue to wear them long term and tough enough to support them effectively without damaging the skin.
We worked alongside TLM (an Italian binder manufacturer) to find a binder that would be effective in maintaining blood pressure following spinal injury and in maintaining posture long term for both paraplegic and quadriplegic clients.
Solution
We worked alongside TLM (an Italian binder manufacturer) to find a binder that would be effective in maintaining blood pressure following spinal injury and in maintaining posture long term for both paraplegic and quadriplegic clients.
The two binders we chose are the Runner+, a strong and durable everyday binder, and Five/24, a breathable lightweight binder for warmer months.
After working with Amanda to move the position of ribs and heights of the binders we settled on options which as well as maintaining posture and blood pressure for Amanda also increased her ability to reach further and push better thanks to increased core stability.
Both binders are:
- Comfortable— The shape means it doesn’t roll up or cut into the skin
- Long lasting—Hand sewn with high quality materials
- Safe for people with impaired sensation—Breathable fabric helps prevent overheating
(*particularly in the Five/24) - Customisable—Removable ribs and strong Velcro tabs help you get a fit that is just right
- Adaptable—A bilateral closure option compensates for asymmetry in a user
Outcome
For Amanda, she is now empowered to look after her posture and well-being while continuing to look and feel her best. After working with Amanda to move the position of ribs and heights of the binders we settled upon two high-quality binders that not only maintained posture and blood pressure for Amanda but also increased her functionality. By giving her more stability she is now able to reach further from her chair with lower risk of injury.
“Other than my wheelchair my binder is my next most important piece of kit… Not only is the binder about aesthetics, it increases my stability and proprioception (with it on I know where I am in space). It is great for my blood pressure, my posture and my push. Wouldn’t be without it! ”
Amanda
If you want to find out more contact us today on 0800 238 523