My husband is an aerospace engineer, and I bet I could get him interested in designing something like these. He just retired, our garage has become an engineering design lab. I'm a retired nurse, I bet we could research. The problem, I imagine, would be the regulatory demands more than design though. The price of those braces just seems outrageous!
Nancy! You and your husband sound like a god-sent pair that has the potential to make a huge impact on the disability world ;) If this is something that interests you I would be blessed to get on a call with you to talk about it. Feel free to email the contact in the description.... I am bursting with ideas that are looking for able hands to execute!
@@ProTipsForParas yes, I just spoke with my husband, sorry for the delay. My husband just said he will be happy to examine the electrical parts of a system of engineering of structural engineering and design for para systems. We know both electrical engineers and mechanical engineers. My oldest brother is also an engineer. I will keep the outreach. This is something I have been very sincerely aware of since my retirement.
@@twizteddreamz5150 please keep in contact, I am talking to my electrical engineer husband about the complexity of both mechanical engineering and electrical engineering components as well as both physical therapies to create a new way to improve health to para patients!
people who have the computer skills are creating braces and prosthetics that can be printed. I doubt there is much in terms of regulatory issues as long as insurance is not expected to cover the cost. I know a that ambitious college tech studentd have created some nice prosthetics for kids that need frequent changes to keep up with growth spurts.
We should never complain about our disabilities after watching how you manage. I have a partial amputation of right foot that caused other problems but NOW I can walk again with a lower leg brace and orthotic 👟. I’m 70 years old and I doing fine after 2 yrs of being off foot!! So happy to watch and listen to you. Sorry about your accident. We all think NOTHING can happen to us. Love ya kid!! 🥰. Don’t give up EVER !!
Russ Griffith you are an inspiration to me, i am an above knee amputee for 5 -1/2 months now going thru therapy to learn to use my prosthesis its so much to take in but you have it together don't know you but very proud of you
You got a good man there! I been in a chair for over 30 years but can walk with a KAFO and a AFO and 2 canes. I’m a level L123 incomplete injury. Took me 5 years to take my first few steps so don’t give up. I spent years in the pool and gym working out to strengthen the few muscles I had. Life is much easier in a chair as our hands can be busy with what ever but it’s nice to stand and walk a bit! Get yourself some lofstrand crutches or start with a walker, wouldn’t recommend wooden crutches or canes until you are stabilized! Best wishes and work hard, you look like a hard working young lady....carpe diem!
Maybe, but probably not. I had my leg amputated and took me 3 months to get my prosthesis. I thought it’d be emotional... it was more of trial and error than anything else. Before I could start standing, my prosthetist basically was all up in my butt 😂. I guess depending on what you have to, you’ll more likely to not want to walk... I just remember how uncomfortable it was for me to start walking at 1st. Anywell, hope you do start walking soon and good luck 👍👍👍
You can do it! Had my leg for 53 year almost to the day. I can learn it, you can too! Prayers and thoughts of good hope and luck. Don’t let falling keep you down. It happens, just use your skills that you learned in PT and get up and carry on!!!
Great attitude and spirit! I was surprised to hear that the Canadian medical system doesn’t supply these? $6,000 is pricey but everything medical seems to be. You are an inspiration to many!
Thank you so much for posting this video I'm a welder by trade trying to figure out how to build some leg braces for a nice lady from Cameroon so just knowing what difficulties you know you guys go through helps me a lot best of luck to you
I love your physical and mental strength. You are such an inspiration. Watching your channel is so educational for everyone. Thank you for your time, effort and drive!
Great job. Hopefully, as you're able to stand for longer periods of time, you'll be stronger and will see less side effects such as light-headedness, etc. You're a beautiful, inspirational, woman and I wish you all the best.
Watching this video of you brought back so many memories. I dated a quad for 4 years and helped her do all the same stuff that you're doing. It was eye-opening situation. We dated for two years before I saw how tall she was after she got her leg braces. You get a whole different perspective on life and how people view you when you're handicapped. I applaud you and your man he's a good man You're a good woman God bless and I pray that you heal soon and one day you can walk again. 🙏😇
Started following your journey this week and I wanted to share how informative and helpful your videos are to me. Also, I always love all the houseplants in your videos!
Go for it girl ! I am female long leg brace user too. Yes it is hard work and very tiring. We need to keep care of our shoulders as we do not have testosterone for more muscle strength like our male guys do. I was told 30 years ago by a SCI Dr. in BC Canada, who studied the bone density affer effects of the bones of the astonouts that travelled to the moon, then also studied SCI persons. He told me unless I wanted to spend minimun of 8-10 hours of weight bearing/day on my long leg braces, do it for other reasons than bone density. Keep it up Jesse ! ❤ I loved doing it too!
I take it that Jesse is your significant other. I did notice the looks you gave him and the slight swaying during the embrace. He couldn't help but dance with you. Too cute!
I would like to give thanks to Erik kondo forgiving you that leg brace. And thank you for sharing what all u people go through every day.God Bless u nd a have a good day.
@Walter White you're toxic as can be man. You think it's creepy because he's not trans or something? Or that Ken noticed a fleeting moment between a beautiful hetero normative couple?
I used to wear a KAFO for 25 years (my left leg was paralysed) I tried out numerous different brands and found that the Townsend & Ossur Braces are by far the best, the hinges are really durable and they scan you to make sure the fit is perfect. It’s awful just how much they cost though. But standing hugs are the best 🤗🤗
I'm not paralyzed but I am a wheelchair user due to many health issues and u help me learn ways of getting around challenges I face. I have no muscle tone in my legs.
Heat is how those are modified. And to go small enough to fit you properly they would need to be cut down a bit too.. Those are actually quite big for you. They also should have one more strap on the shin. I have made afos and modified many braces, knees, feet, hands, back shell, and wrists.. Thankfully I was able to come back from my leg paralysis due to neuro.
I'm looking for a set of leg braces but don't know what to look for. In physical therapy I have used something similar to what you have minus the fancy stuff like the bars and thigh straps basically just the boot and used bands to keep in place. I'm a quad what should I look for?
Great job on the videos! AK single leg. Ran across you vids looking for single AK help vids. Yours are down to earth and the way you adapt is inspiring big time. Pls keep them coming, great work!!
should you require extra assistance for your lower back posture to assist you to stand you can get a back strap. It helps me stop leaning forward or backward too far.
Dont spend too much time standing. I broke bones in my feet from using braces for to long. Kitchen counters work good for standing on your own. Theyre usually higher than most tables and more stable. God bless.
If you have a heat gun, I’ve heated the plastic on mine and bent them more to my shape. When the plastic cools, it’s permanent. You can remold these more to your fit that way. Just be careful with the heat. Hope you got these fixed. Your amazing 🤩 ❤
Had a great uncle who had polio n he used leg braces n arm crutches. They really helped him alot. He drove, had his own barbershop n all. He never let it slow him down. Hope you get arm crutches soon.
I use a wheelchair because of POTS and EDS. I have a lot of the same issues with standing and walking because of dysautonomia (dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system) and because the tendons and ligaments in my legs don’t work very well, although I do have full muscle function in my legs. Another way to help the blood pressure drop and heart rate increase when standing is to increase your salt intake along with your water intake beforehand. It won’t fix the lack of tightening in the muscles and veins to counter the force of gravity but it will help increase your blood volume, which will help with the dizziness. Wearing compression socks, tights, leggings, or stockings can also help reduce blood pooling and decrease lightheadedness. Another tip: If you get a choice, start with a standing frame or stationary walker before switching to a rollator/walker with wheels or crutches. It’ll give you more stability and decrease your fall risk as you get used to working your remaining muscles to stay upright with your KAFOS. Loved this video. I hope you get lots of benefits from being able to stand more on your own power.
I tried leg braces and a walker for a few years. I thought it was going to be better than using my wheelchair. After falling several times, I put them in the closet and used them for just a weekly weight-bearing exercise.
In BC are KAFO’s not covered by the provincial health care. I use KAFO’s the one pair I have were over $22,000.00 dollars and another pair I have were over $8000.00 dollars. In Ontario the ADP assistive devices program pays 75 % of the cost for wheelchairs KAFO’s and such.
Ontario programs cover much more than Western provinces. It gets better going East. And the run around that I would have to go through to get approved is more than I had the energy to fight for
You have found a very good man there.. I know your life is very hard at times but the fact that you are in love and have a wonderful person to share your life with warms my heart. I’ve been going through what I consider a rough time lately but you give me perspective. 💚😇😌
Pro Tips For Paras oh I am sorry to hear that but I’m glad your happier now. If your heart so desires I’m sure you will meet someone else when the time is right. Blessings and love to you 💚
KAFO’S are fantastic I wore them for over twenty years. It’s fantastic that you’ve found a pair that can work for you without having to fork out such crazy money. If the straps are struggling to tighten enough, I used to add adhesive velcro onto the plastic to stop them coming loose. If the soles are slippy you can add some hot glue gun strips on the underside. Standing hugs are the best and are so worth the workout🥵🤗.
Dark Knight OMG so true! I completely forgot about those ratchet straps, they are much more durable and they will allow for micro adjustments so much better plus they won’t twist the brace like velcro can when you’re trying to tighten them. They use those ratchet straps in prosthetics as well. 🙌🏻
Where in Canada are you? I was in Alberta and all my braces were fully covered by provincial health insurance. I also didn’t pay for my wheelchair. All the daily aids I needed (such as grab bars, shower stool, grabbers, forearm crutches, etc) were also fully covered.
Dark Knight I lived in Alberta most of my life before moving to Germany. I, unfortunately, know AADL all too well. I was cost share exempt. There are circumstances where you can have new orthotics/prosthetics covered more frequently than every two years, you really just need your orthotist/prosthetist to document a genuine need (it no longer fits due to body size changes, it’s worn out/broken, etc). They really need to reconsider covering sports prosthetics and orthotics for adults. They provide for children, but not adults. They would end up spending far less in the long run if they helped us to be active and live healthy lifestyles. If her doctor prescribed braces for standing (he/she would need to think it’s a reasonable and genuine therapy) then they would be covered.
I suggest that you use elbow crutches instead of the normal ones that go under your arms because the normal ones will really hurt your shoulders and the elbow crutches are easier to use and take less space
Aya .4 She’d likely struggle greatly, but only she knows for sure. Not having core is an enormously limiting factor for a person with spine injury. I suspect a full torso brace would be beneficial for her when using leg braces. I myself have core and even using a walker when using braces is VERY hard for me. I never really thought about the arm crutches though, and haven’t used my braces in years at this point.
This is amazing to see tht she is standing and yes with help. But that is so good for you becuz your body needs that circulation through out your body. Girl you got guts to do that. Hopefully they will come out with a walker for people that can’ stand by themselves.. create a an adult size walker that will help you move your legs to walk and at the same time a harness like seat in case your trying to fall it will catch you. A remote control walker for people that have spinal cord damage or what ever the case may be when it come to the spinal cord damage. Even thou that people can’t feel there legs or there behind by sitting all the time. This machine will help them move one leg at a time while the harness that protects your body from falling down. Even if its for 3-5 minutes to where you feel comfortable standing as long as you can. Keep strong stay confident in yourself and trust God for your everyday journey. Good job!
My accident was in 1974. T12/L1 complete. For over 30 years I used calipers and crutches at work and did not use the wheelchair. It took a lot of effort but was really worth it. I tried a set of calipers similar to the ones in the video but found that, without a flexible joint at the ankle, I could not walk up any sort of incline as my hip flexion could not compensate for the angle. Also I had a tremendous amount of sweat from the legs from the plastic of the prosthetic so I abandoned them and went back to the more traditional type of caliper. I was amused when visiting a museum in Indianapolis to see the sort of caliper I use portrayed as a museum piece but they certainly worked for me :-) Forty six years on, yes, I am having issues with my shoulders but I don't regret using them to the extent that I did as I had so many adventures that just would not have been possible if I hadn't persevered with them. Based in the UK.
Love this! Thanks for sharing Steve :) I still mostly cruise in the chair to keep my hands and lap free. Maybe one day I will find more love for the braces, or ones that better work for my injury level and body.
Just came across you. Great video to have discovered you. No self pity or drama, just facts. Kudos to Erik for sure. This will undoubtedly unlock new avenues for you. Wishing you the best.
I’ve been watching your UA-cam channel I’m a para was shot with a 22 rifle was I was 4 I’ve been with leg braces for 56 yrs I can tell you once you get started with leg braces you’ll love. I actually get around good as I got older I gained weight don’t let that happen to you it hinder you from getting around as good. Also make sure you get braces that fit right as you be gain to use brace you can develop pressure soars. I’d love to see you with leg brace I think your ready for them Look up on the net warm springs leg braces This is what I wear they stop making the warm spring crutches.
No matter how much I tried them, I always HATED KFO braces and “walking” with them. But I also didn’t ever have a really strong desire to walk again! I now have a standing frame chair that I use on occasion and do enjoy that. 😊
I am with a spinal injury and used to use leg braces as well, when I was 6 years old. Used them for 2-3 years and then I stopped. That turned to be the biggest mistake ever, because when I stopped using them, not long after my legs lost their flexibility and I cannot stretch them fully now. Spoke to specialists and they all refused to do anything due to my mobility from waist down with an explanation that, even after a surgery, there won't be any long lasting improvement.... But yes, I agree on what you said there. We spend more time in a sitting position or laying down. When we want to stand up, the heartbeat is changing and it is impacting our organism and the whole body. The heart which used to be more relaxed and not needed to push so much blood across the body and out of a sudden we are forcing our body to change in a split second. However, I can't imagine what would it be if I ever step on my feet... Before I felt dizzy a lot and having hard time breathing until I got used to the braces. But now, after 20 years or so being in a sitting position .... That will be interesting experience.
Ive never seen this before. You can really see that your holding up all your weight. Good for you. I think doing the videos is going to help your recovery too.
I had a mojor stroke and I lost my left side watching u gives me the dtrenght to keep fighting on I was looking at a company ottobock they have a brace called the c brace I am hoping to get it in the near future it’s very expensive in Northern Ireland keep going I wish u all the best xx
Желаю тебе здоровья. И ,с божьей помощью , научиться крепко стоять на ногах и в скором времени сделать самостоятельно первый шаг. I wish you good health. And , with God's help, learn to stand firmly on your feet and soon take the first step on your own.
Hiya, I’ve been watching this video. I have MS and am pretty much in my wheelchair all day. I recently started using a sit to stand aid which means I can pull myself up from my wheelchair and stand for long periods of time by holding onto the aid. It means i don’t rely on my husband to always help me stand. It’s also easier to do sit to stand exercises too. Have you heard of one of these? I wonder if it could be useful to you? You are so inspiring ❤️❤️
I love mine. Yours are a little different than mine. Mine lock like yours by clicking them in place but you twist a little knob to get them to release. Anyhow I scoot slightly forward in my chair and push on my knees to lock them then to stand up without someone else I use either the kitchen sink or go outside and use the railing around the deck to pull myself up into the standing position. Oh one more tip which takes some getting used to. When hour braces are locked pull up so your tips if your feet touch the counter or railing turn back your chair up just a few inches so your feet have room to go flat. If you get dizzy or are done standing just extend your arms and you will fall backwards. If you don't have someone move your chair after your stand it'd still in the same place so you basically just fall into it. After you do that, unlock the braces so your legs go back down but it's nice because you don't need anyone to help lift you. You just use your arms to pull yourself up and since the tips of your shoes are against the cabinet it railing you don't have to worry about them sliding forward. I like using the railing the best but where the sink is cut out I feel line I can get a good enough grip to the edge if the sink if it's cold or raining to do the same thing.
I like finding railings where I use the same technique you speak about :) butting your toes into something solid and using a railing to pull yourself vertical. I haven't been brave enough to do this without someone close to make sure the chair doesn't slide away from me while lowering down into it. Thank you for sharing!!
I try to google it joni an friends since im a parapligic an only using 1 wheelchair for 6 yrs.hoping to get a good wheelchair.only to find out they wont ship outside US.
If I had £6,000 I would send it to you so you could get a pair that actually fit you, you're incredibly strong and brave I cried watching all your videos.
I had the molded plastic AFOs .I had L2 L3 fracture so I had use of my upper legs.I had many broken bones including one through my knee.I was told I needed one for my knee but did not get one.Being from the Deep South and dealing with 100+ degrees and high humidity made the Afo a and my lack of sweating in my lower legs unbearable during the summer.I trimmed them down and drilled a lot of holes in them.I started using carbon fiber ones the fit on my shin..The
I hated my leg long brace. It was so uncomfortable. I like my short afo better. It was supposed to help me walk some with my dislocated right hip, but it only hurt my hip more I’m glad they help you through
Steve Harris how and where do you get them? My dad is 77 and he's at the point from post-polio syndrome where he can barely walk without excruciating pain. I don't know what to do because his regular doctor doesn't seem to take it seriously
Tracy Stout Tracy you need to get him appointment with a Orthopedic Dr. A lot of Family Drs don’t know much about polio or post polio. A Orthopedic Dr can tell him if he needs braces or what he needs to help him. But it don’t get better but braces if you need them can help you feel much better. It made my feet really sore at first I could hardly walk in the mornings. They made me orthodox that go in your shoes they help take your foot pain away. As time went on I had to get braces. Sometimes it just one leg that need braces. If you have any question I can help you with let me know.
Thank you!!!! There is a polio Clinic about an hour and a half from where we live that I want to take him to but he's just so stubborn. He keeps acting like he's not handicapped and he just wants the knee pain to go away and I said it's never going to go away until you solve the reason that it's happening which is your biomechanics are screwed up from having to lock your knees when you walk and stand. They're just worn out. I tried to educate him and I begged him to let me modify his house because he has a house where to go to the kitchen or the bathroom you have to go up steps which exhaust him. But he won't move and he won't let me make him a kitchen down stairs so it's just so frustrating to see somebody making themselves suffer when they don't have to. Him trying to live like he's not handicapped is going to put him in a wheelchair sooner. It's just so heartbreaking that he won't listen. He just thinks that if the doctors make his knee pain go away then he'll be fine. And that's not the case at all.
If you have a long hallway go to Home Depot and buy two hand rails and attachment (at the correct height similar to a cane length) to each wall. Super easy to pull yourself up and practice swing or walk steps . The best is you can do this independently
Damn, you stood for ages!!!!!! Well done. Holy smokes I can't get over it. You are one strong cookie 😊👍 I imagine a walker would be easier than crutches. Is that true? Oh and BTW. I love the outfit 😘❤️️ Thanks for sharing 👍 ... omg ... and you guys look so cute together!!
First, LOVE the name Driving Heels! Second, I stand as much as I can in the places and states that I find myself in. Ideally a few times a week, but these days proving less. Third, he is pretty cute isn't he ;)
I have just recently picked up a donated pair of what you are talking about (I believe) I haven't tried them yet, hoping they fit. The process of getting anything like that funded and then made (living in a small community means travelling for each appointment) is a HUGE headache and something I have not made the time for.
Oh, man! I know what you mean about looking someone in the face. One of my doctor's PAs is under 5 feet tall and she's my favorite healthcare professional because I can see eye to eye with her from a wheelchair! Ok, that's an exaggeration, but it does get to be a drag looking up to talk to people all day. :) Keep up the good work!
Paul Cummings, I was a volunteer at the rehab centre attached to one of the campuses of our main hospital in the city live in until the program I was with was closed. I am now with the I C U of that same campus. One of the things that I seemed to do instinctively even before, I started with the rehab was to get down to other people’s eye level, probably because for a female I am relatively tall, over 5’ 8”. I think that translates to about 170 cm’s. I was taller, but, I have lost an inch.
So you're bragging about being tall even while you're in a wheelchair. Figures. You should try being a male who is 5'3". It's a real pleasure trip lemme tell ya.
The reason, more specifically, why your blood pressure drops is because of the lack of muscle tone in your legs, but also because the muscle surrounding your blood vessels is also affected. Here's something that you can try, but ONLY after discussing it with your doctor and clearing it with them. One of the things that helps people with POTS, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, is elevating there salt intake a bit to help them retain more fluids. I know about this with POTS but I have NO idea whether it's safe for those who are paraplegics. In pots, it's something that's affecting the ability to constrict the vessels. In paraplegia, that same ability is gone because there is no nerve innervation to the vessels to constrict. For you, I would strongly suggest that if you're going to start doing the standing with the KAFO's, that you use either a walker or forearm crutches. They're good in one sense because they probably do more to build up the arm muscles because you not only have to control the movement back and forth, but also side to side. The best thing in that area is fairly knew and they are a fairly new forearm crutch from a company called Mobility Design. www.mobilitydesigned.com/product/pair-md-crutches/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwm9D0BRCMARIsAIfvfIZGk0p8z425T332yoPSWLYbvDSwSiOKIXI3_K9PLCrwSXYA3XVLJZcaAtWcEALw_wcB They're nice because it takes the majority of the strain off the wrist muscles. They list for $200.
I have a very close friend who had a leg removed at 20 months o,d. We are both in our sixties. The last time I saw her she was on crutches. She said she was tired of using her prosthetic leg. The last time I saw her on crutches was many years ago when she was pregnant.
This was the first video of yours that I’ve seen, and I just wanted to say thank you! New para myself, so something touched me deeper than just the content at hand. And Jesse? Was that his name? Thanks to you also. You were both awesome and inspiring.
I worked with leg braces and a walker for over two years after my accident. It was hard work. I really wanted to try to walk again. I gave up after falling several times. I haven't done any weight- bearing on either of my legs in many years. I'm sure it would help with the muscle spasms I have.
SUCH COURAGE SUCH BRAVERY SUCH A COMMITMENT TO LIFE MAY YOU ALWAYS BE HAPPY
Got to love this kid, she's so feisty and has such beautiful eyes! 😇God bless her sweet girl!
My husband is an aerospace engineer, and I bet I could get him interested in designing something like these. He just retired, our garage has become an engineering design lab. I'm a retired nurse, I bet we could research. The problem, I imagine, would be the regulatory demands more than design though. The price of those braces just seems outrageous!
Nancy! You and your husband sound like a god-sent pair that has the potential to make a huge impact on the disability world ;) If this is something that interests you I would be blessed to get on a call with you to talk about it. Feel free to email the contact in the description.... I am bursting with ideas that are looking for able hands to execute!
Mrs Nancy I'll be your geni pig if ya need aomeone
@@ProTipsForParas yes, I just spoke with my husband, sorry for the delay. My husband just said he will be happy to examine the electrical parts of a system of engineering of structural engineering and design for para systems. We know both electrical engineers and mechanical engineers. My oldest brother is also an engineer. I will keep the outreach. This is something I have been very sincerely aware of since my retirement.
@@twizteddreamz5150 please keep in contact, I am talking to my electrical engineer husband about the complexity of both mechanical engineering and electrical engineering components as well as both physical therapies to create a new way to improve health to para patients!
people who have the computer skills are creating braces and prosthetics that can be printed. I doubt there is much in terms of regulatory issues as long as insurance is not expected to cover the cost. I know a that ambitious college tech studentd have created some nice prosthetics for kids that need frequent changes to keep up with growth spurts.
We should never complain about our disabilities after watching how you manage. I have a partial amputation of right foot that caused other problems but NOW I can walk again with a lower leg brace and orthotic 👟. I’m 70 years old and I doing fine after 2 yrs of being off foot!! So happy to watch and listen to you. Sorry about your accident. We all think NOTHING can happen to us. Love ya kid!! 🥰. Don’t give up EVER !!
Thanks for taking the time to watch Karen. And letting me know you are still going strong at 70 :)
Karen Lara going strong at 70!! Nothing keeps you down!!
Russ Griffith you are an inspiration to me, i am an above knee amputee for 5 -1/2 months now going thru therapy to learn to use my prosthesis its so much to take in but you have it together don't know you but very proud of you
Hope you are healing well and enjoying the freedom of adaptive walking!
You have such a great attitude and your an inspiration to all.
You got a good man there! I been in a chair for over 30 years but can walk with a KAFO and a AFO and 2 canes. I’m a level L123 incomplete injury. Took me 5 years to take my first few steps so don’t give up. I spent years in the pool and gym working out to strengthen the few muscles I had. Life is much easier in a chair as our hands can be busy with what ever but it’s nice to stand and walk a bit!
Get yourself some lofstrand crutches or start with a walker, wouldn’t recommend wooden crutches or canes until you are stabilized!
Best wishes and work hard, you look like a hard working young lady....carpe diem!
I think I'm going to cry the day i can walk...hopefully very soon.
good luck it takes a lot of work but you can [i still fall from time to time but i swear and get up] in my prayers
Maybe, but probably not. I had my leg amputated and took me 3 months to get my prosthesis. I thought it’d be emotional... it was more of trial and error than anything else. Before I could start standing, my prosthetist basically was all up in my butt 😂. I guess depending on what you have to, you’ll more likely to not want to walk... I just remember how uncomfortable it was for me to start walking at 1st. Anywell, hope you do start walking soon and good luck 👍👍👍
You can do it! Had my leg for 53 year almost to the day. I can learn it, you can too! Prayers and thoughts of good hope and luck. Don’t let falling keep you down. It happens, just use your skills that you learned in PT and get up and carry on!!!
Sending prayers! And hugs!
Hope youre doing well!
Great attitude and spirit! I was surprised to hear that the Canadian medical system doesn’t supply these? $6,000 is pricey but everything medical seems to be. You are an inspiration to many!
I’m not in wheel chair , but I have known people and family member and I like your Volga. I think they very very helpfully and I enjoy them very much
Thank you so much for posting this video I'm a welder by trade trying to figure out how to build some leg braces for a nice lady from Cameroon so just knowing what difficulties you know you guys go through helps me a lot best of luck to you
I love your physical and mental strength. You are such an inspiration. Watching your channel is so educational for everyone. Thank you for your time, effort and drive!
Thanks for taking the time to watch :)
We are association hadicapes from moroco we want coordination with association disabled there
Alan Carrick
Her vids do so much for her followers!!
So proud, keep going!!
Great job. Hopefully, as you're able to stand for longer periods of time, you'll be stronger and will see less side effects such as light-headedness, etc. You're a beautiful, inspirational, woman and I wish you all the best.
Made me happy kept up the work my neighbor walks with her legs and drives.
Thanks for sharing, putting in the hard work in will pay off, inspirational
Watching this video of you brought back so many memories. I dated a quad for 4 years and helped her do all the same stuff that you're doing. It was eye-opening situation. We dated for two years before I saw how tall she was after she got her leg braces. You get a whole different perspective on life and how people view you when you're handicapped. I applaud you and your man he's a good man You're a good woman God bless and I pray that you heal soon and one day you can walk again. 🙏😇
That will not happen.
Started following your journey this week and I wanted to share how informative and helpful your videos are to me. Also, I always love all the houseplants in your videos!
Awe! Thank you for taking the time and paying attention :)
Go for it girl ! I am female long leg brace user too. Yes it is hard work and very tiring.
We need to keep care of our shoulders as we do not have testosterone for more muscle strength like our male guys do.
I was told 30 years ago by a SCI Dr. in BC Canada, who studied the bone density affer effects of the bones of the astonouts that travelled to the moon, then also studied SCI persons. He told me unless I wanted to spend minimun of 8-10 hours of weight bearing/day on my long leg braces, do it for other reasons than bone density.
Keep it up Jesse ! ❤
I loved doing it too!
I take it that Jesse is your significant other. I did notice the looks you gave him and the slight swaying during the embrace. He couldn't help but dance with you. Too cute!
Ken is right Ben. He's my man, and the man behind the camera and this entire channel :)
I would like to give thanks to Erik kondo forgiving you that leg brace. And thank you for sharing what all u people go through every day.God Bless u nd a have a good day.
@Walter White takes one to know one!!RIGHT?
@@rickduquette3399 what is that guy's problem? There was nothing creepy about what he said at all. The guy is just trolling
@Walter White you're toxic as can be man. You think it's creepy because he's not trans or something? Or that Ken noticed a fleeting moment between a beautiful hetero normative couple?
I used to wear a KAFO for 25 years (my left leg was paralysed) I tried out numerous different brands and found that the Townsend & Ossur Braces are by far the best, the hinges are really durable and they scan you to make sure the fit is perfect. It’s awful just how much they cost though. But standing hugs are the best 🤗🤗
Inspirational videos. Keep working. You are strong and tough.
I'm not paralyzed but I am a wheelchair user due to many health issues and u help me learn ways of getting around challenges I face. I have no muscle tone in my legs.
It's lovey to have a partner who support you in whatever conditions you are.
You are an inspiration to so many. Your optimism, spirit and knowledge of your condition are so uplifting. God Bless! 😇😇😇
Thanks for the kind comment Donna :)
Hii
Your video was very inspiring for other paras and quite informative. Thanks
Thanks for the message. Hope you're subscribed ;)
What an amazing gift! Thanks for sharing
Оллох.хамамизга.рахим..килисн.омин
I do not know about the molded material of your new to you leg braces but some of the materials used for braces can be reshaped by using heat
Chum
I'm also paraplegia patient and very tough to live with that you so brave
Heat is how those are modified. And to go small enough to fit you properly they would need to be cut down a bit too.. Those are actually quite big for you. They also should have one more strap on the shin. I have made afos and modified many braces, knees, feet, hands, back shell, and wrists.. Thankfully I was able to come back from my leg paralysis due to neuro.
You do have a great spirit! I hope that some one will sponsor all the things you need! God bless you!
I'm looking for a set of leg braces but don't know what to look for. In physical therapy I have used something similar to what you have minus the fancy stuff like the bars and thigh straps basically just the boot and used bands to keep in place. I'm a quad what should I look for?
Great job on the videos! AK single leg. Ran across you vids looking for single AK help vids. Yours are down to earth and the way you adapt is inspiring big time. Pls keep them coming, great work!!
I honestly started tearing up when you stood up honestly. Idk why.
Rory_Emery cause it was bad ass!! She not going to be chained to that chair!!
@@heatstroke3042 yup. And it was also inspiring.
should you require extra assistance for your lower back posture to assist you to stand you can get a back strap. It helps me stop leaning forward or backward too far.
Dont spend too much time standing. I broke bones in my feet from using braces for to long. Kitchen counters work good for standing on your own. Theyre usually higher than most tables and more stable. God bless.
If you have a heat gun, I’ve heated the plastic on mine and bent them more to my shape. When the plastic cools, it’s permanent. You can remold these more to your fit that way. Just be careful with the heat. Hope you got these fixed. Your amazing 🤩 ❤
The closest I can do is use the standing frame. I use a blood pressure cuff to check bp. Thanks for the info!
What an extreme inspiration you are; love your attitude and work.
Tom G.
An inspiration she is!!
I’m sure he is happy to help take care of you. What a beautiful person!!
He and I were not together for long.
Had a great uncle who had polio n he used leg braces n arm crutches. They really helped him alot. He drove, had his own barbershop n all. He never let it slow him down. Hope you get arm crutches soon.
We are association hadicapes from moroco we want coordination with association disabled there
@@nourdinaitmelloul2212 I'm just a guy commenting on her post. Contact Pro tips for paras and she might can help you.
I use a wheelchair because of POTS and EDS. I have a lot of the same issues with standing and walking because of dysautonomia (dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system) and because the tendons and ligaments in my legs don’t work very well, although I do have full muscle function in my legs. Another way to help the blood pressure drop and heart rate increase when standing is to increase your salt intake along with your water intake beforehand. It won’t fix the lack of tightening in the muscles and veins to counter the force of gravity but it will help increase your blood volume, which will help with the dizziness. Wearing compression socks, tights, leggings, or stockings can also help reduce blood pooling and decrease lightheadedness.
Another tip: If you get a choice, start with a standing frame or stationary walker before switching to a rollator/walker with wheels or crutches. It’ll give you more stability and decrease your fall risk as you get used to working your remaining muscles to stay upright with your KAFOS. Loved this video. I hope you get lots of benefits from being able to stand more on your own power.
Killer tip with the standing frame :) New one for the repertoire!
I tried leg braces and a walker for a few years. I thought it was going to be better than using my wheelchair. After falling several times, I put them in the closet and used them for just a weekly weight-bearing exercise.
In BC are KAFO’s not covered by the provincial health care.
I use KAFO’s the one pair I have were over $22,000.00 dollars and another pair I have were over $8000.00 dollars.
In Ontario the ADP assistive devices program pays 75 % of the cost for wheelchairs KAFO’s and such.
Ontario programs cover much more than Western provinces. It gets better going East. And the run around that I would have to go through to get approved is more than I had the energy to fight for
yes the costs are huge.. Why the states dont provide them? Why the disabilitty associations dont do something for this?
Pro Tips For Paras that’s so sad that all provinces don’t have the same type of program. There should be a national plan.
You have found a very good man there.. I know your life is very hard at times but the fact that you are in love and have a wonderful person to share your life with warms my heart. I’ve been going through what I consider a rough time lately but you give me perspective. 💚😇😌
We have not been together since the end of Feb. It was good for a time. I am happier now.
Pro Tips For Paras oh I am sorry to hear that but I’m glad your happier now. If your heart so desires I’m sure you will meet someone else when the time is right. Blessings and love to you 💚
thank you for making this video!
KAFO’S are fantastic I wore them for over twenty years. It’s fantastic that you’ve found a pair that can work for you without having to fork out such crazy money. If the straps are struggling to tighten enough, I used to add adhesive velcro onto the plastic to stop them coming loose. If the soles are slippy you can add some hot glue gun strips on the underside. Standing hugs are the best and are so worth the workout🥵🤗.
Dark Knight OMG so true! I completely forgot about those ratchet straps, they are much more durable and they will allow for micro adjustments so much better plus they won’t twist the brace like velcro can when you’re trying to tighten them. They use those ratchet straps in prosthetics as well. 🙌🏻
Where in Canada are you? I was in Alberta and all my braces were fully covered by provincial health insurance. I also didn’t pay for my wheelchair. All the daily aids I needed (such as grab bars, shower stool, grabbers, forearm crutches, etc) were also fully covered.
Dark Knight I lived in Alberta most of my life before moving to Germany. I, unfortunately, know AADL all too well. I was cost share exempt. There are circumstances where you can have new orthotics/prosthetics covered more frequently than every two years, you really just need your orthotist/prosthetist to document a genuine need (it no longer fits due to body size changes, it’s worn out/broken, etc). They really need to reconsider covering sports prosthetics and orthotics for adults. They provide for children, but not adults. They would end up spending far less in the long run if they helped us to be active and live healthy lifestyles. If her doctor prescribed braces for standing (he/she would need to think it’s a reasonable and genuine therapy) then they would be covered.
I so admire this woman, thank you!
Good girl, never give up trying.
Mine. Wasmetal kafo brace. Thing were nearly 15 pounds on my 🦵 Never. Got to Itvlog Now. I'm wearin an afo
I suggest that you use elbow crutches instead of the normal ones that go under your arms because the normal ones will really hurt your shoulders and the elbow crutches are easier to use and take less space
Aya .4 She’d likely struggle greatly, but only she knows for sure. Not having core is an enormously limiting factor for a person with spine injury. I suspect a full torso brace would be beneficial for her when using leg braces. I myself have core and even using a walker when using braces is VERY hard for me. I never really thought about the arm crutches though, and haven’t used my braces in years at this point.
Those braces are so amazing
Awesome, what an attitude to have, inspiring, keep it up. I'll be sharing this with a few patients in similar spots.
Please share the entire channel :) Thanks for tuning in
@@ProTipsForParas❤
This is amazing to see tht she is standing and yes with help. But that is so good for you becuz your body needs that circulation through out your body. Girl you got guts to do that. Hopefully they will come out with a walker for people that can’ stand by themselves.. create a an adult size walker that will help you move your legs to walk and at the same time a harness like seat in case your trying to fall it will catch you. A remote control walker for people that have spinal cord damage or what ever the case may be when it come to the spinal cord damage. Even thou that people can’t feel there legs or there behind by sitting all the time. This machine will help them move one leg at a time while the harness that protects your body from falling down. Even if its for 3-5 minutes to where you feel comfortable standing as long as you can. Keep strong stay confident in yourself and trust God for your everyday journey. Good job!
My accident was in 1974. T12/L1 complete. For over 30 years I used calipers and crutches at work and did not use the wheelchair. It took a lot of effort but was really worth it. I tried a set of calipers similar to the ones in the video but found that, without a flexible joint at the ankle, I could not walk up any sort of incline as my hip flexion could not compensate for the angle. Also I had a tremendous amount of sweat from the legs from the plastic of the prosthetic so I abandoned them and went back to the more traditional type of caliper. I was amused when visiting a museum in Indianapolis to see the sort of caliper I use portrayed as a museum piece but they certainly worked for me :-) Forty six years on, yes, I am having issues with my shoulders but I don't regret using them to the extent that I did as I had so many adventures that just would not have been possible if I hadn't persevered with them. Based in the UK.
Love this! Thanks for sharing Steve :) I still mostly cruise in the chair to keep my hands and lap free. Maybe one day I will find more love for the braces, or ones that better work for my injury level and body.
Dude. 46 years?! I'm 30 years into permanent paralysis and I have to say, hats off to you Steve! I'm impressed
I like this video so much that I watch it everyday
This video made me smile. 🌹
Thank you for this update 😁
Just came across you. Great video to have discovered you. No self pity or drama, just facts. Kudos to Erik for sure. This will undoubtedly unlock new avenues for you. Wishing you the best.
I’ve been watching your UA-cam channel I’m a para was shot with a 22 rifle was I was 4 I’ve been with leg braces for 56 yrs I can tell you once you get started with leg braces you’ll love. I actually get around good as I got older I gained weight don’t let that happen to you it hinder you from getting around as good. Also make sure you get braces that fit right as you be gain to use brace you can develop pressure soars. I’d love to see you with leg brace I think your ready for them
Look up on the net warm springs leg braces
This is what I wear they stop making the warm spring crutches.
It's awesome that so many people connect and share really important information on UA-cam!
No matter how much I tried them, I always HATED KFO braces and “walking” with them. But I also didn’t ever have a really strong desire to walk again! I now have a standing frame chair that I use on occasion and do enjoy that. 😊
I am with a spinal injury and used to use leg braces as well, when I was 6 years old. Used them for 2-3 years and then I stopped. That turned to be the biggest mistake ever, because when I stopped using them, not long after my legs lost their flexibility and I cannot stretch them fully now. Spoke to specialists and they all refused to do anything due to my mobility from waist down with an explanation that, even after a surgery, there won't be any long lasting improvement.... But yes, I agree on what you said there. We spend more time in a sitting position or laying down. When we want to stand up, the heartbeat is changing and it is impacting our organism and the whole body. The heart which used to be more relaxed and not needed to push so much blood across the body and out of a sudden we are forcing our body to change in a split second. However, I can't imagine what would it be if I ever step on my feet... Before I felt dizzy a lot and having hard time breathing until I got used to the braces. But now, after 20 years or so being in a sitting position .... That will be interesting experience.
That was very sweet of him to send you those. I hope that they help you.
Love them! Hope to get to using them more now that my back is in better shape :)
Try calf length compression socks to help with orthostatic hypotension. Can be bought online in different mmHg compression strength.
Ive never seen this before. You can really see that your holding up all your weight. Good for you. I think doing the videos is going to help your recovery too.
I had a mojor stroke and I lost my left side watching u gives me the dtrenght to keep fighting on I was looking at a company ottobock they have a brace called the c brace I am hoping to get it in the near future it’s very expensive in Northern Ireland keep going I wish u all the best xx
Желаю тебе здоровья. И ,с божьей помощью , научиться крепко стоять на ногах и в скором времени сделать самостоятельно первый шаг. I wish you good health. And , with God's help, learn to stand firmly on your feet and soon take the first step on your own.
I also have braces, but except it reaches around below the knee. Thinking of getting one of these
Your great attitude is inspiring ! 🇺🇸
Hiya, I’ve been watching this video. I have MS and am pretty much in my wheelchair all day. I recently started using a sit to stand aid which means I can pull myself up from my wheelchair and stand for long periods of time by holding onto the aid. It means i don’t rely on my husband to always help me stand. It’s also easier to do sit to stand exercises too.
Have you heard of one of these? I wonder if it could be useful to you?
You are so inspiring ❤️❤️
Amazing! Keep it up. Try every day for a little while.
I love mine. Yours are a little different than mine. Mine lock like yours by clicking them in place but you twist a little knob to get them to release. Anyhow I scoot slightly forward in my chair and push on my knees to lock them then to stand up without someone else I use either the kitchen sink or go outside and use the railing around the deck to pull myself up into the standing position. Oh one more tip which takes some getting used to. When hour braces are locked pull up so your tips if your feet touch the counter or railing turn back your chair up just a few inches so your feet have room to go flat. If you get dizzy or are done standing just extend your arms and you will fall backwards. If you don't have someone move your chair after your stand it'd still in the same place so you basically just fall into it. After you do that, unlock the braces so your legs go back down but it's nice because you don't need anyone to help lift you. You just use your arms to pull yourself up and since the tips of your shoes are against the cabinet it railing you don't have to worry about them sliding forward. I like using the railing the best but where the sink is cut out I feel line I can get a good enough grip to the edge if the sink if it's cold or raining to do the same thing.
I like finding railings where I use the same technique you speak about :) butting your toes into something solid and using a railing to pull yourself vertical. I haven't been brave enough to do this without someone close to make sure the chair doesn't slide away from me while lowering down into it.
Thank you for sharing!!
Joni and friends gives wheel chairs away . U can google and find out . God Bless you
I try to google it joni an friends since im a parapligic an only using 1 wheelchair for 6 yrs.hoping to get a good wheelchair.only to find out they wont ship outside US.
If I had £6,000 I would send it to you so you could get a pair that actually fit you, you're incredibly strong and brave I cried watching all your videos.
I can only imagine how awesome it must feel to get up on your feet when you spend your days seated in a wheelchair.
Timothy Courtemanche
It feels awesome those tips where epic
We are association hadicapes from moroco we want coordination with association disabled there
@@nourdinaitmelloul2212 how i wish you could help me have this leg braces.am from Philippines
Great to see you on stand!
Bless you ..❤ this clips filled my heart and my eyes..❤ well done ..
I had the molded plastic AFOs .I had L2 L3 fracture so I had use of my upper legs.I had many broken bones including one through my knee.I was told I needed one for my knee but did not get one.Being from the Deep South and dealing with 100+ degrees and high humidity made the Afo a and my lack of sweating in my lower legs unbearable during the summer.I trimmed them down and drilled a lot of holes in them.I started using carbon fiber ones the fit on my shin..The
You are a fighter!!! God bless you...😍
Suddenly~ after hug Love scene ^^ you look so happy.
icried the first time i was able to stand out of my chair
Allan Warmflash
Best feeling in the world!!!
I hated my leg long brace. It was so uncomfortable. I like my short afo better. It was supposed to help me walk some with my dislocated right hip, but it only hurt my hip more I’m glad they help you through
I don't have any knee control therefore need the tall ones to stand fully without collapsing
The hand cycles are good idea. I didn’t think of that.
I wear leg braces a AFO and KAFO the KAFO cost $ 3000. With out them I would be in a wheel chair. I get around good in them. I have post polio
Steve Harris how and where do you get them? My dad is 77 and he's at the point from post-polio syndrome where he can barely walk without excruciating pain. I don't know what to do because his regular doctor doesn't seem to take it seriously
Tracy Stout Tracy you need to get him appointment with a Orthopedic Dr. A lot of Family Drs don’t know much about polio or post polio. A Orthopedic Dr can tell him if he needs braces or what he needs to help him. But it don’t get better but braces if you need them can help you feel much better. It made my feet really sore at first I could hardly walk in the mornings. They made me orthodox that go in your shoes they help take your foot pain away. As time went on I had to get braces. Sometimes it just one leg that need braces. If you have any question I can help you with let me know.
Thank you!!!! There is a polio Clinic about an hour and a half from where we live that I want to take him to but he's just so stubborn. He keeps acting like he's not handicapped and he just wants the knee pain to go away and I said it's never going to go away until you solve the reason that it's happening which is your biomechanics are screwed up from having to lock your knees when you walk and stand. They're just worn out. I tried to educate him and I begged him to let me modify his house because he has a house where to go to the kitchen or the bathroom you have to go up steps which exhaust him. But he won't move and he won't let me make him a kitchen down stairs so it's just so frustrating to see somebody making themselves suffer when they don't have to. Him trying to live like he's not handicapped is going to put him in a wheelchair sooner. It's just so heartbreaking that he won't listen. He just thinks that if the doctors make his knee pain go away then he'll be fine. And that's not the case at all.
If you have a long hallway go to Home Depot and buy two hand rails and attachment (at the correct height similar to a cane length) to each wall. Super easy to pull yourself up and practice swing or walk steps . The best is you can do this independently
No hallway. But rad idea
Just seeing this now because my OT is recommending that i get some,And like i said i really find your vids to be very important to me.
A heat gun will soften that plastic enough to reshape it a little which might help your thighs. Carefully though as it's easy to burn it.
Damn, you stood for ages!!!!!! Well done. Holy smokes I can't get over it. You are one strong cookie 😊👍 I imagine a walker would be easier than crutches. Is that true? Oh and BTW. I love the outfit 😘❤️️ Thanks for sharing 👍 ... omg ... and you guys look so cute together!!
First, LOVE the name Driving Heels!
Second, I stand as much as I can in the places and states that I find myself in. Ideally a few times a week, but these days proving less.
Third, he is pretty cute isn't he ;)
Hi, you should be using the HKAFO instead of KAFO. That will give you more stability, a good body posture and a good support.
I have just recently picked up a donated pair of what you are talking about (I believe) I haven't tried them yet, hoping they fit.
The process of getting anything like that funded and then made (living in a small community means travelling for each appointment) is a HUGE headache and something I have not made the time for.
Oh, man! I know what you mean about looking someone in the face. One of my doctor's PAs is under 5 feet tall and she's my favorite healthcare professional because I can see eye to eye with her from a wheelchair! Ok, that's an exaggeration, but it does get to be a drag looking up to talk to people all day. :) Keep up the good work!
Paul Cummings, I was a volunteer at the rehab centre attached to one of the campuses of our main hospital in the city live in until the program I was with was closed. I am now with the I C U of that same campus. One of the things that I seemed to do instinctively even before, I started with the rehab was to get down to other people’s eye level, probably because for a female I am relatively tall, over 5’ 8”. I think that translates to about 170 cm’s. I was taller, but, I have lost an inch.
So you're bragging about being tall even while you're in a wheelchair. Figures. You should try being a male who is 5'3". It's a real pleasure trip lemme tell ya.
@@gary24fan Who is that replying to?
Good for you sweetheart don't ever give up I can see that man loves you
He cared for a short time. We were only together for 6 months and he turned out to be a bummer.
@@ProTipsForParas sorry to hear that where are you from I heard you say up from the US
I wish you all the best.
The reason, more specifically, why your blood pressure drops is because of the lack of muscle tone in your legs, but also because the muscle surrounding your blood vessels is also affected. Here's something that you can try, but ONLY after discussing it with your doctor and clearing it with them. One of the things that helps people with POTS, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, is elevating there salt intake a bit to help them retain more fluids. I know about this with POTS but I have NO idea whether it's safe for those who are paraplegics. In pots, it's something that's affecting the ability to constrict the vessels. In paraplegia, that same ability is gone because there is no nerve innervation to the vessels to constrict. For you, I would strongly suggest that if you're going to start doing the standing with the KAFO's, that you use either a walker or forearm crutches. They're good in one sense because they probably do more to build up the arm muscles because you not only have to control the movement back and forth, but also side to side. The best thing in that area is fairly knew and they are a fairly new forearm crutch from a company called Mobility Design. www.mobilitydesigned.com/product/pair-md-crutches/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwm9D0BRCMARIsAIfvfIZGk0p8z425T332yoPSWLYbvDSwSiOKIXI3_K9PLCrwSXYA3XVLJZcaAtWcEALw_wcB They're nice because it takes the majority of the strain off the wrist muscles. They list for $200.
The love and connection made me tear up
Thank You Eric. We don't have to change the world to make a difference in someones life. A
i want the power to make it right so brave you poor girl i feel so helpless
I have a very close friend who had a leg removed at 20 months o,d. We are both in our sixties. The last time I saw her she was on crutches. She said she was tired of using her prosthetic leg. The last time I saw her on crutches was many years ago when she was pregnant.
Prosthetics are painful things.
I know many amp athletes that use wheelchairs part time.
This was the first video of yours that I’ve seen, and I just wanted to say thank you! New para myself, so something touched me deeper than just the content at hand. And Jesse? Was that his name? Thanks to you also. You were both awesome and inspiring.
Thank you Eric!!!
I worked with leg braces and a walker for over two years after my accident. It was hard work. I really wanted to try to walk again. I gave up after falling several times. I haven't done any weight- bearing on either of my legs in many years. I'm sure it would help with the muscle spasms I have.
Weight bearing is something I make sure I do as often as possible. So many health benefits, including reducing spasms.
Very nice vid. I was injured two years ago and got similar braces for my legs. The walker will help you tremendously!
Thanks for making these vids!
Praying for you.
You are an inspiration. Thank you!
Thank you. You're welcome:)
Standing must be the best feeling. Good girl