Universal rod – description

The user holds the universal rod with his wrist in one cradle and small finger in the metal loop

The universal rod is used to pick up, get, or grasp various objects (see related tip). It is made of a fly rod, with a sharp nail at the front. A key ring sits on the other end. A loop of metal sits on the rod, about 15 cm from the handle.
The handle consists of two cradles made of orthotic material (photo below). One of the cradles in the photo is made of aluminum, but it has since then been replaced by one made of orthotic material. One of the cradles is made with a larger opening to fit the wrist. The other is smaller; that’s where the user attaches it to the bottom of his hand. With this technique it can be used to pick up both lighter and heavier objects; the larger cradle is used for heavy objects and the cradle in which the hand fits is used for lighter objects. If the smaller cradle which is attached to the hand is used the user can also reach to the floor.

The universal rod is easily accessible when stored hanging on a hook at the edge of the desk.

Technique for grasping light objects: Cradle in orthotic material is used. The user gets hold of the key ring on the universal rod and bites the rod itself in order to place his hand in the cradle.

Technique for grasping heavy objects: The aluminum cradle and metal loop are used. The user gets hold of the universal rod as described above. This time he places his wrist in the aluminum cradle and small finger in the metal loop (photo above).

Users comments
A fishing rod is very light but can also handle extremely heavy loads. In order to grasp heavy objects the user has to stabilize his wrist and therefore attaches the universal rod at the wrist and small finger.

Made by
User’s home services personnel.

Paid for by
The user

Whose idea
The user

Universal rod with two cradles for wrist and hand

User puts on universal rod

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