7 tools that have improved my post spinal cord injury life
What if I had been born a thousand years ago, a hundred years ago, or even 50 years ago?
Without the use of my arms and legs, I don’t know what I would possibly even be able to do on any given day before the era of friends named Siri and Alexa.
Over the past decade I have often been contacted by readers who know someone who is dealing with a new spinal cord injury searching for resources. I have already shared about the 5 things not to do when people need you the most, so I thought it may be helpful to provide specific tools that have been both life-changing or, at the very least, a big help in making post-spinal cord injury life just a little easier.
Dragon Speech Recognition Software
This voice activated software allows me to use my computer completely independently, for everything from managing my email, to reading books on Kindle, to writing on my blog, to working remotely. Check this link if you are looking for bankruptcy attorney.
There are many frustrations that have come with being dependent on others over the past decade but being able to utilize Dragon provides a sense of independence that I’ve been unable to experience in any other capacity since my injury.
I sleep on my back and for years I would wake up stuck, with my face turned completely to the right. Over time this has led to increased curvature of my spine, as well as neck stiffness.
I’ve tried everything from different pillow firmness to propping my head with rolled up pillowcases, but it wasn’t until recently that I was able to find this helpful shaped pillow that both keeps my neck neutral while sleeping and is actually comfortable.
Standing Frame
With a few pumps of the lever I am able to stand up in this frame, allowing me to bear weight into my feet and have my legs moved back and forth.
On top of the psychological benefit of once again being eye level with those around me, it is great for bone density, circulation, posture, breathing, and skin integrity. These are all byproducts of standing and walking that are typically unnoticed when engaging in this normal habit our bodies are designed to partake in daily.
*Video below is a few years old but incorporates standing frame (1:01) and voice software (2:32) as well as the overhead lift used to transfer me*
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJxgmrfJHNo&t=28s
The first few years after my accident I would wake up in the middle night having no idea if it was 6 AM or if I had just gone to sleep. Being unable to turn over to see a clock or grab my phone was annoying. This LED alarm clock projects the time onto the wall or ceiling. It may not seem like a big deal, but it’s been incredibly helpful in the middle of the night.
This simple tilting table allows me to still have access to technology no matter where I am in the house. It easily rolls out into the living room or directly over me in bed and it is height adjustable.
Since I can’t dig into my head as I would like and am dependent on others to wash my hair, this heavy-duty assistant is able to leave my scalp feeling ecstatic.
Mounts onto my table or headboard and twists in whatever direction I need. Allows me to be able to see my phone and (combined with Siri) use it independently.
I’m thankful for these technological advances that are easy to take for granted but have opened up a whole world to me.
What do you think? What are the gadgets you cannot live without?
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Hi, Ryan – These tools are so cool, especially the projection clock. If I wake up in the night, I always want to know what time it is, too! Also, I did not know about the cervical orthopedic pillow, but I need what it does so thank you for that tip! As always, I enjoy and appreciate your blog. You are a gifted writer. You must have had Ms. Barron! 🙂
Glad you enjoyed them. I added some more on the resources page: http://www.flatonmyback.com/resources. Hope this helps!
Hey Dear Ryan,
I literally have a clock in every room of my house except the bathrooms and I have to fight annoyance when I go to other homes for Bible Study or social stuff and there is no visible clocks in sight. I have 2 clocks in FR, 2 in kitchen and 2 in MBR but I still long for one that projects the time on the ceiling of my bedroom for the same reason you have except I can pick up my cell phone and find the time; however that usually involves rolling over (which I wish you could do) and then slapping around on the bedside table to locate the cell phone.
Why is time important to me? Maybe because at 81 years it resembles the last few grains of sand dropping through.
What great things you have listed and how amazingly wonderful that someone has created those items to make your life easier.
I rejoice with you the wonderful fact that your hand was able to be moved; it will be interesting to know where you go from here. Hallelujah!
Ryan,
My name is Jamie Spurling you may or may not know that I’m one of the guys that hangs out with Dwight and Jeana Perry on Monday nights. I just had to reach out to you and let you know how happy I am for you. I have dedicated my professional life to working for folks just like you. That makes me highly qualified to say YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I so admire your very empowered outlook on life. I know God is working miracles in your life and I could not be happier for you. Bless you for offering your resources to the masses. Alone the same line I wanted to offer my resources to you. I know your family is taking VERY GOOD CARE OF YOU but if I can share any information with you I would be happy to do so. Please don’t stop being awesome!
Respectfully,
Jamie Spurling
http://www.livingbarrierfree.com
513-383-5934
I truly appreciate this post. I have been looking everywhere for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thank you again
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve been to this blog before but after browsing through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely happy I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!
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Thank you for creating a safe space on your blog for discussions on mental health. Your openness and vulnerability are helping break down barriers, allowing others to share their experiences and seek support.