Author: Meredith Chandler OTR/L

Date: 4/25/2024

Keywords: arthritis, strength, coordination, pain, hand, Remedic Hand and Finger Training System, occupational therapist

Introduction

The human hand is a complex and extraordinary system consisting of 27 bones, 27 joints, 34 muscles, and over 100 ligaments and tendons working in conjunction with the nervous and circulatory systems to produce movement. Although the inner workings of the healthy hand and its separate parts function like the gears of a new clock, there’s great risk for breakdown and chronic pain with time.

In this article, we are going to discuss the potential health problems adults face that could cause arthritis and other joint pain in the hands. More importantly, we will talk about the innovative Remedic Hand and Finger Training System, who the training system was designed for,  its benefits in improving hand function and reducing pain, sample hand exercises, and pre- and post-care tips from an occupational therapist.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that affects any joint in the body, resulting in swelling, tenderness, and stiffness. The most common types of arthritis, out of several hundred forms, are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While osteoarthritis causes the joint cartilage to break down due to wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints. No matter the type, arthritis causes mild to severe joint inflammation that can greatly restrict movement and result in debilitating, daily pain. Hand arthritis can result in poor coordination and grasp during everyday tasks.

What Other Conditions Lead To Joint Breakdown And Pain?

Arthritis is not the only condition that causes hand pain and joint breakdown. Hand injuries, repetitive use injuries, and nerve disorders (carpal tunnel), can also trigger daily discomfort and inflammation, making it difficult to participate in daily living tasks that require fine motor coordination or a steady grip. Additionally, hand pain will make it less likely for adults to seek the opportunity to regularly strengthen their muscles, resulting in chronic hand weakness and worsening coordination.

What Is The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System?

The patented Remedic Hand and Finger Training system is an exceptional exercise program designed to provide an easy, practical way to strengthen the hand while increasing joint mobility and reducing inflammation. The kit includes a single, silicone BPA-free sphere with two interchangeable, flexible rings that make hand exercises intuitive and pain-free. This handheld device molds perfectly to the palm and comes paired with more than 30 hand exercises organized in a pamphlet.

Features Of The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System

The hand trainer comes with two resistance rings that easily slide over the silicone BPA-free ball. If one resistance ring proves two hard or easy, it can be switched out anytime. Each resistance ring and the hand trainer are ergonomically-friendly to fit the natural shape of the palm and fingers comfortably. The ribbed feature on the hand trainer adds dexterity for a better grip for users who may experience limited hand sensation. Accompanying the hand trainer is an exercise pamphlet filled with over 30 hand exercises to strengthen the hand muscles to improve joint mobility, coordination, and comfort.

Benefits Of The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System

The remedic hand and finger training system offers adults living with acute or chronic hand pain and joint limitations with a wide array of benefits, including:

• Step-by-step instructions to participate in the guided exercise system as written or in a tailored approach
• Challenging and engaging exercises that are versatile and practical for any environment
• Easy-to-assemble with only two-step instructions for ring placement and removal

• Isolating finger movements to focus on individual muscles that need more strengthening
• Increasing joint mobility lost with muscle weakness of the hands
• Facilitating typical grasp and finger positions that are essential for daily use
• Using a trainer that’s waved, ribbed, and ergonomically-friendly for adults with impaired dexterity and grasp
• Gentle material and shapes that strengthen the hand muscles while reducing overall joint pain
• Easy-to-clean materials that are durable for long-lasting and repetitive use
• A program that’s suitable for adults with various types of hand conditions including arthritis, sports injuries, repetitive use injuries, work-related stress injuries (i.e. prolonged computer or cellphone use), and so much more

Types of Training Exercises With The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System

As mentioned previously, the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System offers over 30 exercises for hand strengthening, joint mobility, and pain reduction. Before we dive into a small portion of these exercises, it’s essential to explain some of the language use describing the exercises in the training guide:

• Flexion: moving the joints to shorten a muscle belly to produce a contraction
• Extension: moving the joints to lengthen a muscle belly or stretch the muscle tissue
• Adduction: moving a body part towards the center of the body
• Abduction: moving a body part away from the center of the body
• Opposition: positioning a tip of a finger to touch the tip of the thumb
• Thenar press: pressing on the thenar muscle, a large muscle at the base of the thumb
• Carpus press: pressing on the eight small bones in the wrist

Each individual exercise provided by the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System offers functional benefits to improve hand motion; however, a combination of exercises can maximize hand function for a wide variety of daily tasks. For example, a hand grip exercise may help someone better remove a lid from a jar, but exercising individual finger muscles in combination with hand grip exercises can make this activity even more successful.

Here are a sample of just five exercises out of more than 30 available exercise ideas provided by the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System:

Finger Extension

We are constantly grasping, gripping, and pinching at things during daily activities, sometimes giving the finger joints a good stretch is placed on the back burner. Finger extension elongates the finger flexors on the palm side of the hand, releasing endorphins to reduce pain and increasing overall joint mobility.

Hand-Massage and Relax

The silicone BPA-free material of this device makes massage application perfect to tired or sore joints after exercise or due to chronic pain. Massage can be used as a pre-care or post-care technique depending on the individual’s unique needs.

Thumb Extension-Thumb Stretch

Here’s an example of how the resistance rings can be used separately to isolate finger movement. Since the thumb is constantly flexed to form necessary grips and grasps, this thumb extension exercise offers users the opportunity to stretch muscles and joints, opening up the palm and tiny wrist bones. Any joint motions releases endorphins, a necessary peptide produced by the brain to reduce pain. Furthermore, the base of the thumb is the most at risk for arthritis and should receive therapeutic attention.

Finger Spread-Finger Abductions

The Finger Spread exercise produces a combination of movements including finger abduction and extension, which provides the hand with an excellent stretch after holding a prolonged grip. The ring can be moved up and down the fingers depending on which individual joints the user wants to give attention to. The texture of the ring prevents it from sliding off the hand.

Full Grip

The Full Grip includes flexing all fingers while extending the thumb. Any grip can either be held in position or can be pumped by pressing into the device multiple times in a rhythmic pattern. Depending on the user’s comfort, the Full Grip can be performed with or without the ring.

Before beginning The Remedic Hand and Finger Training System exercises, construct some reasonable goals for daily sets and repetitions. Here are some tips for creating a goal-oriented approach:

• Get a notebook or a phone to log your exercise program
• Identify which joints need the utmost attention for physical strengthening
• Identify which joints to avoid to prevent increasing pain
• Select up to five hand exercises from the provided regimen guide
• Use a resistance ring that challenges the fingers but does not cause additional pain
• Start with a reasonable number, such as “three sets of 10” and taking 30 second rests between each set. Apply the “three sets of 10” commitment to all five exercises daily
• After 1 week, increase the number to “three sets of 15”, then “three sets of 20”, increasing by five every week. Only make the increase if it doesn’t cause unnecessary pain
• Once the first resistance band gets too easy, switch out for the high resistance band and consider selecting five more exercises.

Set aside some time everyday to commit to a tailored exercise program. Keep the device in an accessible, visible area and pair the exercise time with another daily commitment, such as a meal, physical exercise routine, or bed time routine to prevent forgetting the program altogether.

Pre- and Post-Care For The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System

Before beginning any physical exercise, adults living with chronic pain or reduced joint mobility should take some precautionary steps to both prepare for the exercise regimen and to properly care for muscles and joints after physical exertion. Here are a few tips to care for joints and muscles of the hands and fingers before and after participating in the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System:

• Apply a small amount of lotion or soap-free moisturizer to the palms, fingers, and webs by massaging it generously into the skin.
• Remove excess lotion with hand soap and WARM water, followed by drying the hands thoroughly. Once the hands are dry, start your exercise regimen while the joints are still warm. Additional heat can be applied with packs or hot pads if needed for approximately 10-15 minutes.
• Once your exercises are complete, either rinse your hands in COLD water and/or apply an ice pack to the joints and muscles of the hands. Ice application for approximately 10 minutes after exercising muscle groups can calm the nerves and reduce soreness.

Note: If you are living with joint pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis or another autoimmune condition, consult with your primary physician before applying hot or cold packs for an extended period of time.

The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System: Material And Maintenance

The Remedic Hand and Finger Training System is super easy to maintain since it’s made from durable, silicone BPA-free materials. Here are a few tips to maintaining and sanitizing the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System equipment for long-lasting use:

• Wash the ribbed ball and rings in dish soap and warm water. For filthier items, allow items to soak in a small bowl for 15-30 minutes and then rinse with warm water.
• Pat each item dry with a lint-free washcloth.
• Sanitize each device if sharing with other users to reduce germ transmission.
• Keep items out of direct sunlight and in a place at room temperature.
• Keep items stored safely away from small children and pets.
• Use items from The Remedic Hand and Finger Training System according to their intended use.

Who Is The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System for?

The Remedic Hand and Finger Training System is intended for adults living with just about any form of joint pain or immobility of the hands and fingers. Examples include adults who:

• need to use repetitive movements in the work setting: typing, filing, construction work, massage therapy, heavy lifting, cooking/baking, etc.
• are active musicians, athletes, artists, chefs, carpenters, or any employee who requires fine finger movement or holding a steady grip
• Have arthritic conditions of the hands and fingers that limit joint mobility
• Have unusual weakness of the hands and fingers due to age or illness
• Are rehabilitating their hands or fingers after an injury or surgery

Prioritizing hand health and strength can also lead to improved mental well-being and quality of life by reducing unnecessary daily pain and enhancing participation in activities that bring joy and satisfaction.

Who Should Not Use The Remedic Hand And Finger Training System?

Like any exercise program, there may be a group of individuals who may not benefit from its well-intended layout; in fact, using the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System could make things worse. This includes individuals who experience any of the following:

• Moderate to severe joint damage from rheumatoid arthritis
• Active fractures or muscle/tendon/ligament tears of the hand or wrist
• Complete amputation of the hand(s)
• Uncontrolled gout in any of the joints of the hand or wrist
• Severe carpal tunnel syndrome of one or both hands
• Active or open wounds of the hand
• Poor cognition or mental function that reduces someone’s ability to use this system safely without assistance

If you have a medical condition of the hands, fingers, or wrists and are unsure if you can safely participate in the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System, consult with your primary physician. In some cases, certain hand injuries need time to rest and heal before participating in ANY exercise program, including repetitive use or fracture injuries.

No matter what exercises a user selects for their daily regimen, they should follow basic rules regarding pain. If any exercise causes sharp, searing pain, then the participant needs to either reduce their repetitions, try a less resistant ring, or eliminate that type specific exercise for a while. Each user should expect some soreness or dull discomfort, especially if the exercise is new to them, but no exercise should cause excruciating pain or make joint mobility worse.

Conclusion

Arthritis, repetitive use injuries, and other medical conditions of the hands can cause debilitating pain and reduced joint mobility, which makes participating in meaningful activities infrequent and sometimes unbearable. The Remedic Hand and Finger Training System comes with ergonomically-friendly devices and over 30 exercises to strengthen the hands and fingers and reduce unnecessary joint inflammation. With the right combination of exercises, pre- and post-care techniques, and routine maintenance strategies, the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System can increase many adults’ quality of life and participation in hand-related activities they love or need to do. Adults who have questions or concerns about their unique hand concerns, consult with a primary physician, an orthopedic specialist, and/or a certified hand therapist before investing in the Remedic Hand and Finger Training System.

See more Remedic products on https://remedic.co/products/

Or check out our Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/s?me=AMV4Z0PHUPR6K

Author: Jessica Belkowski, MS, OTR/L, C/PAM

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-belkowski-ot/

There are a variety of challenges that exist for people who take medication during their day. Opening pill bottles can be painful or challenging if a person has weak grip strength. For people with one or more caregivers assisting with medication management, establishing a system can be challenging.

With the Remedic Medicine Cup, a caregiver or spouse can load medication into the attached pill box; it has a tilting lid with a large lever, easy to open for anyone with decreased grip strength. Many people rely on disposable plastic bags which can get easily lost in the bottom of a purse or can open easily and spill the contents.

The pill box is also transparent, meaning with a quick glance, the user can easily check that he is taking all of the correct medications, even before opening; a caregiver could also quickly assess if the user has actually taken the medication yet or not. This product also eliminates the need for repeated use of single-use plastic bags.

The glass cup portion also has markings on the side to ensure adequate water is taken with the medications, particularly if a specific minimum recommendation is provided by that user’s physician. These markings also allow for a subtle monitoring of hydration by the caregiver without having to ask the user how much they have been drinking throughout the day. It is made of glass, so it’s a better option suited for leaving on a countertop at home rather than taking it with you. However, it is very useful to have medication loaded with the appropriate amount of water to supply someone with the next dose.

This ergonomically designed cup is comfortable to hold and easy to open. It’s also easy to clean, as all parts are dishwasher safe. The Remedic Medicine Cup is a convenient solution to many common issues with medication management inside the home.

Buy now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/REMEDIC-Organizer-Vitamins-Supplements-Medication/dp/B08C53KMN2/

Author: Meredith Chandler OTR/L

Date: 04/05/2024

Keywords: Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad, incontinence, arthritis, comfort, occupational therapist, wheelchair, sitting

Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad: An Occupational Therapist’s Review

Introduction

Selecting the right seat cushion means the world to seniors, especially if it means a great reduction in daily pain or discomfort. In some cases, the right seat cushion means the difference between optimal skin integrity and hospitalization. In this blog, we will be exploring the design and benefits of the Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad. Our approach encompasses an occupational therapist’s assessment and point-of-view regarding seniors living with arthritis who could benefit from using the Gel Cushion with Incontinence Pad.

What is arthritis?

There are several hundred forms of arthritis, but the two most common include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While osteoarthritis gradually breaks down the cartilage of the joints due to wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the lining of the joints. Symptoms of arthritis typically include joint inflammation and stiffness that can affect any area of the body, thus making participation in daily living activities challenging.

What functional problems result from arthritis?

Since arthritic symptoms vary widely, many seniors with mild symptoms may not notice obvious changes or compensations to their daily routine; however, seniors who’ve lived with arthritis for many years may be experiencing debilitating and excruciating pain that greatly limits mobility and causes chronic fatigue. Examples include inability to sit for long periods of time, difficulty with reaching, discomfort with bending forward, trouble staying awake, etc. Such problems could increase the risk of falls and/or injury.

What is incontinence?

Incontinence is a condition where someone loses the voluntary capacity to control urinary and/or bowel output. This results in regular accidents which can be embarrassing, unhygienic, and potentially dangerous when left unattended. Seniors who experience regular incontinence episodes are at higher risk for compromised skin integrity and devasting wounds that can lead to infection, hospitalization, or death. Incontinence can be defined by medical issues that impact muscles and joints, but it also refers to accidental episodes that happen when someone can’t get to the bathroom on time due to mobility limitations.

Purpose of Gel Seat Cushions and Pads

In general, gel seat cushions and pads are designed to provide additional comfort to individuals who participate in prolonged sitting. This is common among seniors with age-related conditions, chronic pain, fatigue, poor balance, and paralysis. Medical-grade gel seat cushions are highly sought out in private residences, assistive living centers, hospitals, and nursing homes to prevent skin break down and staged wounds or ulcers. Most gel seat cushions are fitted for wheelchair use but can be transferred to recliners, geriatric chairs, and other seating systems. However, many gel seat cushions are difficult to clean and are not equipped with durable, washable material suitable for seniors with incontinence.

Who is the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad Suitable For?

The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad is a honeycomb-shaped gel insert encased in an Oeko-Tex 100 certified removable fabric cover. While the top layer is created with a soft, skin-friendly material, the bottom is studded with a non-slip texture to prevent sliding forward and off the seat. The fabric is double layered for high absorption, making it ideal for seniors with incontinence. Additionally, the cover is machine washable and gel insert is easy to sanitize. The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad is suitable for seniors with:

• Chronic fatigue resulting in extended wheelchair or recliner use
• Arthritis of the spine and hips, making prolonged sitting uncomfortable
• Seniors with incontinence issues
• Seniors who’ve tried basic wheelchair cushions with little to no positive results

What is set-up like for the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad?

The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad requires no set-up and is very intuitive to use and clean. This cushion comes in a fitted storage bag for easy protection and transport. Just remove the cushion and place in a flat seating system, and then remove the cover by opening the zipper for sanitation.

Benefits of the Remedic Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad

The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad provides seniors with a multitude of benefits, including:

• Increased comfort during prolonged sitting
• Reduced tension in the back, hips, and thighs
• A great alternative to traditional, non-gel cushions
• Minimizing odors and body matter that could lead to infection
• Reducing risk for sores, wounds, and hospitalization
• Easy cleaning for repeated use
• Increased quality of life

Professionals who may Recommend the Remedic Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad

Gel cushions are commonly used in healthcare facilities that require wheelchairs, including hospitals, assistive living centers, nursing homes, transitional care units, etc. Seniors who live in private residence may also utilize gel cushions if they sit routinely in wheelchairs or recliners. Professionals who may recommend the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad include occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, nursing staff, primary physicians, medical equipment providers, or any healthcare worker who closely works with seniors and individuals with incontinence and who are at risk for compromised skin integrity.

Equipment used to Enhance use of the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad

The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad pairs well with any seating system that fits its dimensions. Other equipment that complements the safe use of this cushion could include, but is not required, is:

• A contoured back support for additional comfort
• Well-fitted footrests to prevent sliding out of the wheelchair
• Comfy lateral supports along the armrests and/or back support for postural stability

Who the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad may not be Suitable For

Like all gel cushions, the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad will not prevent wounds and skin breakdown entirely unless the user can reposition regularly, with or without assistance. This cushion may not be suitable for seniors with:

• Currently staged or non-healing wounds along the hips, back, tailbone, or thighs
• Uneven pressure distribution from spinal deformities (i.e. scoliosis)
• Poor hip flexibility that causes them to periodically slide out of their chair
• Limited mobility and no assistance to reposition every 15-30 minutes throughout the day
• Orders from a primary physician to use other medical-grade cushions
• Hip measurements width and depth greater than the cushion dimensions (42 x 36 x 4.5cm/16.5 x 14 x 2 inches)

Conclusion

Arthritis and incontinence can result in consequences that greatly limit a senior’s ability to perform daily living tasks and to lead a higher quality of life. The Remedic Gel Cushion with Incontinence Pad provides seniors with flexibility and convenience for comfortable sitting and reduced risk for embarrassment and illness. Consult with an occupational therapist to determine if the Remedic Gel Cushion with Incontinence Pad is right for you.

Buy it now on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/remedic-Gel-Seat-Cushion-Incontinence/dp/B08B3PVF3H/

Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad