The Four Unique Benefits of Rifton’s Grab Bar and Anchor Family
| July 2025
The Rifton Grab Bars and Anchors are one of the better kept secrets of Rifton’s line of adaptive equipment. Attaching to desks and tabletops, this set of arm supports and grips, while small in size, can have a big effect on positioning outcomes. Their purpose is multifold. They provide distal stability for a client’s arm(s), cueing proximal stabilization to improve control and strength of their core, upper trunk, and head. During episodes of spasticity, an arm anchor provides a point of control for one upper extremity that results in refined function of the other. Because of their unique contribution, arm anchors ultimately improve function and participation. Work, play, and activities of daily living are made easier, promoting inclusion and social opportunities.
Four Benefits of the Rifton Grab Bars and Anchors
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Stability:
There are five options of Rifton anchors – the arm anchor, the hand anchor, the elbow anchor, the horizontal anchor and the grab bar. Whether requiring full elbow support or just a handhold, the client will receive appropriate feedback from a prompt that is firmly secured, cueing the client to brace and strengthen. This is especially helpful for clients with low tone. In some cases, when specifically focusing on improving upper trunk control and strength, a client may benefit from the use of two anchors.
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Function:
Rifton Anchors are invaluable as positioning aids to enhance function. For instance, in the case of uncontrolled motor movements, strategically placing an anchor on a child’s feeding tray may help contain one upper extremity for successful utensil grasp with the other. Or it can allow a client to hold their head upright long enough to complete an assignment at school.
Anchors are short-term positioning aids and are not intended to provide the primary support for transfers and standing.
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Versatility:
The Rifton Grab Bars and Anchors are portable, sturdy, and light-weight. They attach with a suction cup mechanism to any smooth, horizontal areas, such as trays, tabletops, and the Rifton Adaptive Desk. A simple lever allows for quick and easy release and re-application of the anchors to obtain optimal configuration. -
Durability:
The industrial-strength suction cup is tough and was originally designed for lifting and installing heavy plate glass and sheet metal. It is chemical, dirt, and stain resistant. The comfortable cushioned support is easily cleaned. It is Rifton quality and once purchased, an Anchor will last a long time.
Five Choices of Grab Bars and Arm Anchors
Arm Anchor
The arm anchor stabilizes the forearm with a soft padded surface and optional straps and handgrip. It adjusts lengthwise, and the handgrip rotates to any needed position of the hand.
Hand Anchor
The hand anchor is an ergonomically shaped handhold to facilitate and maintain grip. Its use requires some independent grip capability and strength of the client.
Elbow Anchor
The elbow anchor frees the wrist and hand for functional activity, while the forearm rests on a padded surface. A comfortable strap secures the elbow in place.
Horizontal Anchor
The horizontal anchor is a portable grab bar for users who can grasp more easily with a pronated forearm. Its use requires some independent grip capability and strength of the client.
Grab Bar
The grab bar is a horizontal bar providing a wider range of hand placement options at a surface. Its use requires some independent grip capability and strength of the client.
