Cleaning with orthoses or prostheses

Cleaning means holding and guiding a broom, a mop, a vacuum tube or a dustpan brush over longer periods. The movement comes from the arms and the upper body, while both hands stabilise the handle and set the direction. If grip function is limited on one side, the handle can slip or has to be held with additional effort. This often leads to compensating movements in the hand, arm, shoulder or upper body and makes longer cleaning tiring. The right aid holds the handle reliably in position on the affected side and makes it possible to adjust the angle to the task at hand. Macu4 offers two systems for this. Which system suits you depends on your individual situation and on the appropriate base fitting.

The Lynk System with the Clic Lock Module is suitable for an orthotic fitting when grip function is not reliable enough. The base encloses the forearm in the form of a lightweight orthosis and provides a secure attachment point for the module. For cleaning, the module can be quickly connected to and released from a compatible Clic head. The Clic head is mounted on the handle of a broom, mop or vacuum tube. Different Clic heads allow different shapes and rotations, so the system can be adapted to various handles and arm positions. The Lock version blocks the module head with the Clic Plug. This offers additional security when pulling forces occur, for example when drawing the mop across the floor. Various rotation settings make it possible to align the handle at the required angle. By selecting different Clic lamellae, the release force can be adapted to the application. The connection therefore stays secure while you work and can be released deliberately when needed. The system is designed for easy one handed use and stays light on the arm. When the handle is held reliably on the affected side, pushing and pulling movements can be carried out in a more controlled way. Individual household tasks can then be taken on more independently, without putting unnecessary strain on the hand and wrist.

The Explorer System is suitable for the prosthetic fitting of the forearm in adults. The lightweight, 3D printed Explorer System from macu4 consists of a socket, the Explorer Ring as the connecting component and a module for the activity in question. For cleaning, the Twin STD Module holds the handle of a broom, mop or dustpan brush securely in a defined position. The module is pressed onto the handle by hand so that the spiral grippers wrap around it. The handle then stays reliably in place during pushing and pulling movements alike. The angle of the Twin Module can be adjusted individually. Using the Slide button, the joint can be released, moved into the required position and then locked securely again. This allows the handle to be aligned to your arm position and working height, for example when mopping the floor or sweeping up dirt with a dustpan brush. The module can easily be attached to and detached from the socket. It is available in two sizes for different handle diameters and can be configured with or without length compensation through an integrated spacer. The suitable version is defined during the measurement. When the handle is held securely on both sides, the movement can be guided more evenly from the upper body. This can reduce one sided compensating movements and help you mop the floor with less effort.