Sufferers of ailments that cause mobility issues, such as arthritis, paralysis (partial and complete), spinal cord injuries, and more, can struggle with seemingly innocuous tasks that non-affected individuals take for granted. These problems are more pervasive than one would think. According to a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, around 10% of individuals over 18 in the United States are impacted by mobility difficulties.
One issue that arises from mobility issues, specifically arthritis, is difficulty putting on one’s socks. According to British osteopath Tim Allardyce, osteoarthritis is a degenerative inflammatory condition that affects joints (especially in the knees and hips), causing pain and discomfort. As per Allardyce, a telltale sign of osteoarthritis is having trouble bending to put one’s socks on. Further symptoms include swelling around joint areas, stiffness, and loss of general flexibility.
How do Affected Disabled Individuals Cope?
Those who cannot comfortably bend over to put on socks and shoes must rely on some form of mobility aid to assist them. These aids vary significantly in design and function. The importance of these aids can not be overstated, as it can be distressing, disempowering, and frustrating for disabled individuals to continually ask for help in doing tasks that non-disabled people can complete with ease.
Some sock aids are flexible and malleable, while others are stiff and rigid. The former is perfect for those who do not want to overstretch their sock, while the latter is designed for individuals who need the sock to be stretched as wide as possible (such as those who suffer from swollen feet). Furthermore, sock aids have varying handle styles, with long handles offering stability but being difficult to store, and cord handles being well-adapted for individuals with one hand but not suitable for those with vision problems.
However, a solution exists that confers all of the aforementioned benefits while avoiding all other pitfalls.
The Ultimate Solution for Putting on Socks and Shoes (Even Better Than Sock Aids)
Footwear Assist is a pragmatic, sustainable, and affordable solution for those with physical constraints in putting on socks and shoes, cutting toenails, changing dressings, and more. Our product is designed and invented by Allen Seals, a Wheelchair Rugby World Champion with the USA Wheelchair Rugby Team. Allen has been a C-6 quadriplegic since 1979 and, after enduring a severe shoulder injury in 2012, was unable to put on his socks and shoes.
As an alternative to traditional sock aids, Footwear Assist has been lauded by industry professionals and experts. Angela MacCabe, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Physical Therapy and Director of Curriculum at Pacific Northwest University, has commented, “This device can promote independence in our patients. This is a core component of what we do as healthcare professionals. I highly recommend this equipment for our patients who display deficits in reaching their feet for inspection, hygiene, or application of footwear and ankle foot orthotics (AFOs). After all, achieving independence is what therapy is all about.”
Brent Poppen, a US wheelchair rugby medalist at the Paralympics, is also a proponent of Footwear Assist. “With this device, I am able to put my shoes and socks on in a short amount of time, which gives me peace of mind. After using Footwear Assist, I am now ready to be a more productive and independent member of society,” remarked Poppen.
If you’re ready to ditch dated, cumbersome, and ineffective traditional sock aids and gain back your independence and freedom, visit our website to begin your journey.