For day-to-day activities and work Alan recommended the Steeper Espire Elbow. A revolutionary powered elbow,
The Espire Pro is easy to use and features a fantastic anatomical shape with a free swing option which emulates a more natural silhouette when walking. The elbow features a comfortable center of mass and the
powerful battery means the device can be used all day, ideal for Jim whilst at work. The electronic lock and accessible power button add ease for carrying out daily activities and Jim’s busy job as an Orthotist. The Espire Pro is compatible with multiple wrists and terminal devices making it an excellent starting point for Jim’s prosthesis, the elbow control strategies are flexible enough for Jim to operate the hand, or wrist and elbow simultaneously.
“The elbow amplifies the power of my body movement and allows me to get my hand to where it needs to be quicker. The natural shape and long battery life are a real added bonus”.
To enable Jim to perform his professional duties effectively when he returns to his full ranges of activities at work, Jim has been fitted with the Ottobock Greifer and Wrist Rotator. The Greifer will help Jim to work precisely and it enables a powerful grip, supporting both detailed tasks as well as the handling of heavy objects. Different gripping tips (wide, narrow or rubber coated) allow further adaptation for special tasks and the additional LED lamp illuminates the working area perfectly. The electronic wrist rotator is really helpful in that it allows
Jim to fully orientate the terminal device without interrupting what the natural left arm is doing
“I love how simply the Greifer is to use and especially the way the jaws runs in parallel. I find it very easy to gain fine control of the opening and closing speed”, said Jim.
For Jim’s day-to-day needs, he has been fitted with an i-Limb Quantum from prosthetic manufacturer Össur. The i-Limb Quantum is a multi-articulating prosthetic hand that has a unique way to change grips by using simple gestures. It offers precision, power and intelligent motion.
“The hand offers me an extremely high level of
dexterity”, said Jim. “The gesture control is my favorite grab option”.
ProActive Prosthetics have cast and made a custom fitting socket for Jim and made an arm to incorporate all the technology supplied by Steeper, Ottobock and Össur. This is a vital piece of the jigsaw in helping Jim get the most of all these components.
The turning point
Now almost 18 months on from his accident, Jim has now returned to work, getting back to his full range of activities at RNOH in Stanmore and is looking to complete a Masters in Sports and Rehabilitation Psychology.
Jim has had time to reflect of what has happened, now that he is further along his rehabilitation journey, and is sure his positive attitude will help him along his future path.
“If I could offer any advice to others going through a similar ordeal to me. I would say don’t get bogged down in the detail. Keep hold of your dreams and your ambitions and be prepared to adapt. Because that’s what life is all about,” said Jim.
Find out more about the Espire Pro