Stories
Using the TRAM for Safe Transfers and Mobility in the School Setting
March 13, 2018
by Terri Goebel, PT, Kellie Ray, ESE Teacher and Tara Wayland, OTR/L
Our team of therapists and educators works together to provide opportunities for functional mobility to our students throughout the school day.The challenges we face include a variety of health diagnoses, behavioral management issues, and cognitive and physical deficits. These situations require team problem solving for safe and efficient physical management of the student while maximizing participation in...
Tips & Advice
TRAM Tip: Inverting Forearm Mounts for Larger Clients
September 12, 2017
by Elena Noble, MPT
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...
Tips & Advice
Comparing Rifton’s Three Gait Training Devices
August 09, 2017
by Elena Noble, MPT
Since gait training is a focal rehabilitation activity, we’ve done our best to design gait trainers that meet all needs. In addition to our pediatric line of gait trainers we have three devices that can be used by heavier, larger clients: the TRAM, the XL Pacer and the E-Pacer. While the TRAM is good for tight spaces or if you need a device that can double as a toileting or transfer aid, for full...
How To’s
Rifton TRAM FAQs
Who uses the TRAM?
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 adults presenting with a wide range of developmental and acquired disabilities including TBI, CVA, SCI, post hip replacement surgery, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy.
Always have a qualified healthcare...
PT/OT
Out in Front with Mechanical Lifts in Schools
February 27, 2017
by Elena Noble, MPT
Last week I attended the Combined Section Meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association. It was held in San Antonio (great choice, especially in February!) and included some excellent programming. I’d like to share highlights from one of the workshops which focused on using lift and transfer devices in schools. It was presented by therapists from four large school districts.
Each district...
Tips & Advice
Using the TRAM Swivel Locks to Help with Steering
January 17, 2017
by Elena Noble, MPT
One key function of the Rifton TRAM is gait training. As a client progresses and gait control improves the clinician eventually steps away to let the client guide the TRAM solo. But some people have difficulty controlling lateral movements, especially if all TRAM wheels are free to swivel. For these people, here are two TRAM tips that have made all the difference for many.
Setting the TRAM to Track in a...
PT/OT
Positioning Checklist for the TRAM
July 15, 2016
by Elena Noble, MPT
The Rifton TRAM offers unique recovery opportunities in rehab, homecare and school-based settings with its capacity for supported ambulation, seated and sit-to-stand transfers.
PT/OT
Which Should I Use For Gait Training?
May 17, 2016
by Lori Potts, PT
Since our newest items, the Rifton TRAM and the New Pacer both have the capacity to support walking practice and have similar prompts, including arm prompts, trunk support, and walking saddle, therapists often wonder which to choose for ambulation or gait training.
Because the TRAM does a lot more than gait training – it’s a three-in-one device that combines sit-to-sit...
Stories
Full Inclusion Summer Camp
June 08, 2015
by Elena Noble, MPT
Inclusion is not easy. It takes commitment, creativity and time to help every student learn and participate. So congratulations to the wonderful teachers and staff at the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) who realized that with summer just around the corner it was time to take inclusion outdoors as well. The result? A first ever inclusive Technology and Recreation camp at nearby Sly Park...