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Determining Resistance: Dynamic Footrests – Update

Determining Resistance: Dynamic Footrests – Update

Seating Dynamics Dynamic Footrests can move in up to 3 directions. First, the footrests telescope, allowing movement downward. Second, the footrests can elevate, allowing the knee to extend and the foot to move forward. Third, the footplate can move into plantar and dorsi flexion, allowing ankle movement.

How is Resistance changed on the Dynamic Footrests?

The telescoping feature provides up to 1.5” of movement and is adjusted by changing a spring. The installed default spring is Blue, which responds to 40 lbs. of force. Yellow (20 lbs.) and Green (60 lbs.) are also included in the package.

Seating-Dynamics-Blog-54-Dynamic-Footrest-ElastomersThe knee extension feature uses three Blue (Firm), dog bone shaped elastomers which can be changed out if worn. Clear (Soft) elastomers can be requested if less resistance is required.

The plantar and dorsi flexion resistance cannot be changed. Blue (Firm) elastomers provide up to 10 degrees of movement in either direction. These can be changed out if worn.

Determining Resistance and Replacement

So how do I determine if the resistance needs to be changed to best meet an individual’s needs?

To determine the optimal spring for the telescoping movement, watch the client as extension occurs. If no telescoping movement occurs, a softer spring may be indicated. If the client extends, leading to the Dynamic Footrest telescoping, but does not readily return to a starting position, a firmer spring may be indicated. If the client moves with different force on either side of their body, different springs can be used in each Dynamic Footrest, as well. These springs are quite durable and generally do not require replacement for wear and tear.

The resistance of the knee extension feature can be reduced by changing to Yellow (soft) elastomers. The resistance should be checked at least once a year. If the client is moving into knee extension and not returning to a starting position readily, the elastomers most likely need to be replaced.

The resistance of the plantar and dorsi flexion feature cannot be changed, however these elastomers can wear out. The resistance should be checked at least once a year. If the client is moving into plantar or dorsi flexion too readily or not returning to a starting position, the elastomers most likely need to be replaced.

Check out our Quick Class video on Footrest Resistance.

Please contact us if you need to replace elastomers, and we can help you get what you need and walk you through the process.

 

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