Eating with an orthosis or prosthesis

If grip function is limited, the cutlery may slip or be difficult to guide. This may mean that support is needed during meals. A suitable aid keeps the cutlery securely in position, makes the movement easier to control and can support greater independence when eating. This allows you to focus more on the meal and on spending time together at the table. Macu4 offers three different systems for this purpose. Which system is right for you depends on your individual situation and the most suitable base solution.

The Lynk System is suitable for an orthotic fitting when grip function is not sufficiently reliable. The base wraps around the forearm in the form of a lightweight orthosis and provides the module with a secure connection point. The Hold Module secures cutlery and other cylindrical objects between the flexible module head and the hook-and-loop strap. An integrated ball joint allows the module head to be adjusted to the required angle, so that a fork or spoon can be held securely and positioned appropriately. The Hold Lock Module also includes a locking function. The cutlery is secured in the flexible module head and remains in the selected position until you release it. This provides additional security throughout the meal. Both modules hold the cutlery without it having to be gripped with the fingers. The cutlery can be inserted into the module head and removed again. At the same time, the modules remain lightweight on the arm. When the cutlery is held securely on the affected side, it can be guided with greater control. This can make it easier to manage individual steps of eating independently and to take part in meals at your own pace.

The Explorer System is suitable for an adult prosthetic fitting on the forearm. macu4’s lightweight, 3D-printed Explorer System consists of a socket, the Explorer Ring as the coupling component and a module for the respective activity. It weighs less than 300 g. Two suitable modules are available for eating. The Pinch Module holds the handle of a fork or spoon between its module fingers. Small cylindrical objects can also be pressed from above into the slot with the round openings until they click into place. This keeps the cutlery secure and precisely positioned. The Hold Module secures the cutlery between the flexible module head and a hook-and-loop strap. An integrated ball joint allows the module head to be adjusted to the required angle, helping to position the cutlery appropriately when guiding food to the mouth. Both modules hold the cutlery in a defined position, allowing it to be held and guided in a controlled way. The Pinch Module is available in two sizes, while the Hold Module comes in one universal size. Both can be configured with or without length compensation using an integrated spacer. When the cutlery is held securely, the movement from the plate to the mouth can be carried out more purposefully and with greater control. This supports greater independence during meals and may reduce the individual need for assistance.

The Lumo System is the child-friendly solution: a cuff or socket for young users with interchangeable modules, allowing the system to be adapted to different activities your child would like to try. For eating, the Lumo Hold Module provides a secure and simple way to hold cutlery. A fork or spoon is secured between the flexible module head and the hook-and-loop strap. The module head can be adjusted in different directions, allowing the cutlery to be positioned appropriately and guided from the plate to the mouth with greater control. The system is quick to put on and take off and remains lightweight on the arm. It can support your child in taking on individual steps of eating independently and in exploring independence in everyday life. This can help meals remain relaxed, while the focus stays on the food and spending time together.