Adaptive Mobility and Positioning Blog

At Desert Mountain SELPA in Apple Valley, California, we’ve discovered a creative solution for seated transfers with the TRAM. This method works really well, particularly for the more profoundly involved kids. Using the standard approach shown in the TRAM Quick Reference Guide (with a thigh strap placed separately under each leg) often results in the body support system riding up the student’s...

The Rifton TRAM is a versatile transfer and mobility device that can  safely support people of varying abilities and sizes. To do this effectively it’s important to position the body support low enough on the trunk, but for people with shorter trunks or larger thighs this may be made easier by reversing the arm support post mounts so they don’t dig into the thighs as the body support is...

When we make bathing easier, our clients are healthier. The new Rifton Wave, a thoroughly reimagined bath chair, improves the bathing and showering experience for both the client and the caregiver. Here’s a great resource on the features, benefits and medical necessity of the Rifton Wave- a bath chair that can restore the dignity and yes, even the pleasure in the bathing experience.

The Rifton TRAM is a remarkably simple solution for toilet transfers, ensuring safety and dignity for both clients and caregivers. Here are four approaches developed by clinicians in the field to accommodate different body types and impairments. Download the pdf Method 1 For client with good trunk tone and weak lower extremities View Slideshow   Method 2 For clients with moderate weight bearing...

Questions about the Rifton TRAM? This new resource offers answers to the questions we’ve heard the most along with tips and guidelines to help you get the most out of your transfer and mobility device. Rifton TRAM FAQ

Therapists are always looking for ways to accomplish patient transfers as simply and quickly as possible without excessive repositioning of the patient. Today we’re sharing a great hack from Jamie Haines, PT, DScPT, NCS at Central Michigan University for getting the TRAM Pelvic Support, formerly called the walking saddle, in place under the client without the extra seated transfer.   .embed...

The Rifton Pacer’s Multi-Positioning Saddle (MPS), in addition to providing weight-bearing support and excellent positioning for the pelvis, greatly simplifies transfer into the gait trainer. Here are the steps for a streamlined and safe transfer from a wheelchair into the Pacer. It is best performed with two caregivers. Preparing the Gait Trainer for a Transfer Lock the caster brakes. Undo...

Transferring someone with low tone and little or no weight bearing to and from the toilet is challenging. Along with a dependent lift, a therapist must guard against the individual slipping down or sagging during the seat-to-seat transfer in addition to managing clothing. Even with lifting devices it is difficult to execute a smooth, dignified, safe transfer with an individual unable to maintain any...

Supported standing for children with disabilities has many health benefits, among them maintaining hip integrity for the prevention of hip dislocations. To achieve optimal hip stability through adapted standing routines, lower extremity abduction is important. A recent literature review indicated that standing to improve hip  stability should be in 30 to 60 degrees abduction for 60 minutes daily...

Using the Rifton TRAM for toileting can make a huge difference for both students and staff, providing both safety during transfers to the toilet and dignity and privacy for the student. Because students with disabilities have a wide range of needs, there are many ways to use the TRAM for this purpose. Here are some methods we’ve found here at Socorro,  presented as three case studies. (I&rsquo...