United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Does anyone have suggestions about how Parker could zip his coat using only one hand? Does anyone know of any assistive devices? I would hate to limit his clothing to anything without zippers...Thank you! HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

WE ARE NOT WORKING ON ZIPPERS YET, OUR SON IS ONLY 2 1/2, BUT OUR OT/OP HAS SHOWN US A ONE HANDED BUTTON FASTENER. IT IS PRIMARILY USED BY OLDER STROKE PATIENTS WHO ARE WORKING ON GAINING THERE INDEPENDANCE AGAIN, WHICH IS EMOTIONALLY WORSE ON THEM. YOU MIGHT ASK YOUR OT/OP TO CHECKOUT ADULT OR GERIATRIC REHAB SUPPLIES. LET ME KNOW HOW IT TURNS OUT.
STAFF SARGENT BRYAN SWIFT, FT. RUCKER, AL

it is important to put the bpi arm in the jacket first, otherwise it can cause some discomfort while putting on the jacket. I hold the zipper against my body with my bad arm and then zip up. He will get the hang of it. we always find ways to do things. hope this helps.

Judy - That is how I do it to!!!
We must be twins separated at birth... LOL.. and years....

It is such a habit I had to stop and think... I try to buy jackets a little bigger but the arm alterations are a pain...

Buttons for me was practice... to get the fingers moving...

VELCRO is a "good thing" The less frustration the better especially in public...
Kath

Thanks for all the great tips everyone! I was kinda thinking Parker would use his affected arm to hold the coat against his body...just don't know if he has the strength. Am also glad to hear your perspectives on velcro! And the comment about making sure your child knows it's ok to ask for help! Thank you all!

Brittney puts in her injured arm first too. There were so many times when she was around four or five though that I'd hear - "Mom I'm stuck again" and that mainly happened when she'd try to take her injured arm OUT of the jacket first - so I guess the first arm in the jacket should be the last arm out?! I think Louise has such a great idea about tying a long string to the zipper to help pull. I used to also get those cute "zipper pulls". They used to have ones with cartoon characters - not sure if they still do. As far as button up clothes - we just don't use them. I personally don't like them! It's hard for anybody to button big buttons and they seem to always unbutton themselves anyhow. (personal preference) I wanted also to say that I know as Brittney got older she was able to dress herself easier - just like little ones who aren't injured - it keeps getting easier for them as they get stronger, better coordinated and more mature. I too agree that Velcro is such a big helper with shoes and jackets and so many kids use velcro that it won't make your child stick out differently at all. Also sweat pants with elastic waists are great, comfortable and easy. I've found that I pretty much dress my uninjured child the way I dressed Brittney at the same age. I stay away from tricky buttons or snaps and some zippers just so she won't get frustrated. There are always play clothes at home with zippers and snaps to play with and practice on though.