Safe Patient Handling and Mobility (SPHM) in Schools

Patient transfers are a routine part of all therapy interventions. These might involve assisting someone from a wheelchair to a mat table or parallel bars or helping a child into a gait trainer. However, these transfers put therapists and…

Use the TRAM to make transfers out of a wheelchair with fixed armrests.

Here at Maiden Choice School in Baltimore County, MD, we have initiated a program called Maximizing Independence in Life Skills: A Toileting Program for Students with Complex Disabilities. Over the last four years since we began it, this…

The Rifton TRAM provides a lot of flexibility within our school setting for standing, walking, and transfers.  Mostly it is used for safe transfers that would typically require a two-person lift.  However, in one of my schools it…

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…

Who uses the TRAM? Note: The TRAM has been replaced by the E-Pacer (June 2025) The Rifton TRAM is a multi-purpose device used for sit-to-stand lifting, gait training, assisted transfers and toileting. The TRAM is used by children and…

As word of the Rifton TRAM continues to spread among therapists and caregivers, we’ve recognized the need for a simple set of step-by-step tutorials to demonstrate the basic functions of this new transfer and mobility device. If…

TRAM Quick Reference Guide The Rifton TRAM, our latest product offering, is a transfer and mobility device that performs three powerful functions: seated transfer, sit-to-stand lift, and gait training. While it’s remarkably simple to…

I asked our lead designer, Gideon Clement, to answer the most frequent questions we’re hearing from new TRAM users in the field. Obviously these tips are intended as general guidance only; each client is unique and it’s up to…

A Conversation with Sue Cecere, PT, MIT Rifton is pleased to have Sue Cecere, PT, MIT join us for this conversation. This topic was initiated after Sue and a fellow therapist toured our Rifton factory; they were introduced to our newest…

Since the Rifton TRAM came out just four weeks ago we have been getting frequent requests for a sample letter of medical necessity for this item. Because the device offers the unique functions of seat-to-seat transfers, sit-to-stand…

Techniques for lifting and transferring patients are among the most basic skills physical therapists learn. Many of us were taught that by use of appropriate body mechanics we could transfer patients safely and effectively without risk of…