How the Tek RMD is tailored to you
Introducing the alternative to a standing wheelchair
When looking for a standing wheelchair in the UK you deserve to check out the Tek RMD.
The Tek RMD is a brilliant application of robotic technology, engineered to empower individuals with lower limb paralysis or weakness. It effortlessly allows users to transition from sitting to an upright stance, providing excellent posture while maintaining mobility. While it doesn't aim to replace the function of a wheelchair, it does provide an unparalleled enhancement to it.
This brief video introduces the Tek RMD and hints at what is possible.
A quick introduction to the Tek RMD and its purpose
Extended sitting in a wheelchair can be detrimental to one's health. Thus, the option to stand is not only practical but also advantageous in social scenarios. We often find standing frames discarded and unused in corners of homes, despite the well-known health benefits of standing. The primary issue often lies in the monotony of such equipment, leading to a lack of motivation to use them.
The Tek RMD, however, changes this narrative by integrating mobility and functionality. It isn't a flawless product - no product is - but it excels at the tasks it is designed to perform, and hence, merits serious consideration.
It’s not one size fits all
That said, ensuring a proper fit for the intended user can be a challenge, especially if we don't have comprehensive information about the individual. Prior to a demonstration, we prefer to know as much as possible about the potential user. Safety is our top concern - is the individual within the manufacturer's stipulated safe-use specifications? We need to account for factors such as the individual's weight, height, and any potential contraindications. This is why we strive to collect all necessary information to ensure a perfect and safe fit for each user.
There is a maximum weight and a minimum and maximum height as you will understand. There are also contraindications we must check for.
What is not so obvious at a glance is that each Tek RMD is capable of being adjusted to suit a wide range of statures. The cosmetic bodywork covers the means to adjust the product and we cant generally make major adjustments on site. The can compromise the demonstration if, for example, the Tek RMD is currently set to suit a short person and the client is tall.
When standing, there are three areas of support that need to be in the correct place for safe and effective use the of the Tek RMD. These are shown in the image adjacent as the Chest pad, Hip pad and Knee pad. If these are correctly positioned
the person is held safely in position despite limb paralysis
they can move safely from sitting to standing and in between safely
the pressures on any point are such that tissue viability is preserved
the joystick is neither too high or too low so the user can move around easily.
users that need a little trunk support can get it
ideally users don’t need to “hold on” to the Tek RMD and can have hands and arms free to interact with their surroundings.
If we know the users stature before a demonstration we will often try to configure the Tek RMD to the situation.
In every case we take particular measurements to ensure that the product is a a great fit for every client. The measurements we need are as follows
the overall height (measured with shoes on in a lying position)
Distance from sole of foot to Xiphoid process (bottom of Sternum) (in cm)
Distance from sole of foot to hip joint (palpate greater trochanter) (in cm)
Distance from sole of foot to fibula head (cm)
Foot Length with shoes on(cm
Weight in Kg
Generally, these measures will be used in the factory to set up the Tek RMD for the individual and then checked by us in our warehouse before delivery to the client. Final adjustments can then be made at the the client’s home. For example, some clients need a little more or less trunk support. Since the electric lift options became the standard, the ease of rising from a seated position has become much easier.
Not all clients will feel as adventurous as this young man - and it’s not compulsory. However, if the Tek RMD is set up correctly it should offer new opportunities for independence and health.