Has anyone used a "trapeze" on their hospital bed, prior to needing a Hoyer lift? Any opinions regarding the type that attach to the bed frame vs the type on legs that slide under? Just looking online, the reviews do not look too good for either type. I still have good upper body strength. I have not been able to "scoot" in bed for several years. Turning from back to side has been quite challenging, but is possible using hand rails. Legs are no real help as they have no real functional use. Any info is appreciated. A Hoyer lift would not be helpful at this time, as I live alone.
- Status
Nikki J
Moderator
- Joined
- Mar 22, 2012
- Messages
- 17,662
- Reason
- PALS
- Diagnosis
- 04/2014
- Country
- US
- State
- MA
- City
- Boston
I have no experience from the patient aspect. Looking at different kinds I saw one ( free standing) that is both a trapeze and a so called bed cane. When I read your post I thought the latter might be helpful to you being sturdier than using bedrails a bed cane is a pole at the side of the bed the combination might be good for you
- Joined
- Nov 5, 2009
- Messages
- 15,441
- Reason
- Lost a loved one
- Diagnosis
- 00/0000
- Country
- US
- State
- WA
- City
- Seattle
Whatever you decide on, I would favor something that puts minimal strain on your shoulders, which are more easily subluxated in ALS. This could mean possibly making greater use of your forearms and/or torso.
Of course, the day you wake up and that solution doesn't work is not predictable, so I would have your phone at hand.
Do you have a plan for when you can't live alone? Let us know if we can chime in on anything.
Of course, the day you wake up and that solution doesn't work is not predictable, so I would have your phone at hand.
Do you have a plan for when you can't live alone? Let us know if we can chime in on anything.
I have delayed using a trapeze due to concerns about shoulder strain. I was not aware of the "subluxation" issue. That is good to know. I am definitely at a point where it won't take much before living alone will not work. No simple solutions there. I will be using a care facility when I reach that point.
- Status
