Living with the Tek RMD
Introduction to the Tek RMD
The Tek RMD is a unique product to help persons with leg paralysis or difficulty to stand and move. Some clients have found this really life-changing but of course not everyone will be able to use this product. In this article we are looking at the Tek RMD from Matia Mobility - what it is, who it is for and some aspects of living with the product.
What’s a Tek RMD?
The Tek RMD is a novel standing and mobility device. It is designed to hold the user in a safe and therapeutic upright posture, that allows them to both rise to a standing position and move around easily in their environment whilst leaving their hands and arms free. This allows more freedom and independence to perform daily tasks, while improving health and overall wellbeing by encouraging standing. Imagine being able to stand easily again and access that high cupboard or a kitchen surface.
The user boards the device from the back which avoids risky transfers. Once onboard, a user can move easily from sitting to standing and vice versa by operating a lever.
The Tek RMD’s here show off two accessories. Both feature the optional Transfer Seat. The one on the right shows the device with the Outdoor Wheel configuration.
The TEK RMD is now available as an Electric Lifter version. There are some optional accessories – an Outdoor kit and a Transfer seat shown above.
The original, Manual version, was designed with paraplegia in mind; this implies lower limb paralysis but essentially normal upper limb function. This version was typically not suitable for persons with higher level spinal cord injury, stroke etc where arm function can be affected.
The new Electric Lifter version is a far better option for those with general upper limb weakness such as those recovering from a stroke, living with MS, cerebral palsy or other neurological conditions.
The Tek RMD is both narrower and shorter than a wheelchair and highly manoeuvrable in an indoor or paved outdoor space.
The user is held in a standing position by a “cushion” that spans the hip area and maintains the hips in extension. The shins are in contact with generous, soft pads that are adjustable in three dimensions to ensure that the knees are held in a correct position and the legs are supported in place without risking tissue viability. Each Tek RMD is adjusted to suit the individual user.
Benefits of the Tek RMD
Standing is recommended to everyone for long term health. When upright mobility is compromised due to leg paralysis or weakness, the Tek RMD encourages each user to stand more frequently and for longer – and move around indoors or outdoors whilst doing this. Many persons who have a standing frame frequently struggle to find the motivation to “just stand there” even if it is good for them.
The Tek RMD doesnt look like a medical product unlike other standing devices; it allows you to feel good about standing because you can get on with your life at home or at work.
Daily standing delivers positive effects on bone density, peripheral circulation, bowel and bladder function and pressure sore risk. Prolonged wheelchair use without such standing cannot deliver such benefits.
Alternative devices for achieving standing are either limited to just passive standing and are bulky, or they are very slow to use, don't provide a good posture and require too much effort to use. “Standing wheelchairs” will generally tilt the user back somewhat in order to remain stable. The design of the Tek RMD means that, assuming that the user is generally suitable to use the product, they can generally achieve an excellent and stable upright posture with arms and hands free.
Client video
One of our client’s fundraised to obtain his Tek RMD. It’s a manual lift version with the transfer seat and outdoor wheels fitted. He keeps the outdoor wheels on all the time and has an indoor space that permits this. Much of video below shows outdoor movement - some of the footage is speeded up a bit. The Tek RMD is can generate a fast walking pace - you will be able to see the speeded up parts.
Contraindications
These are the general contraindications that may affect a person’s ability to use the Tek RMD. If in doubt about anything please ask:-
• A leg length discrepancy (one leg longer than another) of more than 5 cms (2 ins). We can sometimes compensate for this issue but we need to know if this is present.
• Lack of upper body/trunk control ability. The user should be able to stabilise him/herself in a standing position without using the arms to hold onto the Tek RMD. This is important for independence as the user can then carry out practical tasks. The Tek RMD design can provide a certain amount of lateral support to the trunk if the user’s core strength is not great. From frequent use, many users will develop greater core stability when using the Tek RMD.
• Restricted hand function that inhibits the operation of the TEK RMD's controls. With the new Electric Lifter version this restriction need not be a barrier to use the product although it would disallow the Manual version. With the Electric Lifter version the user can “lean” or rest their arm or hand on the lever to operate it.It’s not necessary to squeeze the lever.
• Flexion contractures at the hips, knees or ankles that will prevent upright standing posture. If contractures are fixed at the hips, knees or ankles they will interfere with the ability to achieve a safe standing posture. Guidance of a physiotherapist can help. If spasms are an issue then we can advise on management of these prior to trying the Tek RMD.
• Restricted ability to generate force and restricted range of motion in shoulders and upper extremities that will prevent the user from gaining an upright position. This disallows the use of the Manual version but the Electric Lifter version may still be practical.
• Severe osteoporosis in the lower limbs or spine or a history of fractures is a significant contraindication. Medical clearance is required before using the Tek RMD
• Unstable fractures of the lower limbs or spine will disallow use of the Tek RMD until fracture union is achieved.
• Open wounds or acute pressure ulcers at the back, hips or lower extremities.
• Uncontrolled autonomic dysreflexia, hypotension or dizziness in upright standing
• History of epilepsy will require medical clearance.
• Cognitive disabilities that impair safe use of the device
• Severe visual impairment preventing safe use of the device
• Pregnancy
Accessories
Outdoor Kit
The original Tek RMD was designed as a product to be used indoors although many users would use it on paving in the garden for example.
With the arrival of the new Outdoor Kit, the Tek RMD can be converted into a more versatile product for use on a variety of outdoor surfaces. The adjacent image shows the main components of the kit. This consists of new front wheels, a new tailpiece a trolley jack to raise the product for wheel changes and a tool for changing the wheels. The kit is designed so that many users will be able to swap from indoor to outdoor use or vice versa without calling a dealer. The change over can potentially be carried out by a wheelchair user.
When the outdoor wheels are in place the base of support is broader and longer to provide greater stability.
The Transfer Seat
The optional Transfer Seat, shown here in the down position, was designed as a flipup/down seat to allow easier transfer on and off the Tek RMD from a wheelchair.
As we discuss below, the user must transfer onto the Tek RMD from the back and the ease with which this can be done depends on the user’s physical status and the equipment they may have available to assist transfer.
If in doubt, we recommend guidance is obtained from an Occupational Therapist or other professional who can advise on the most suitable equipment for the user’s situation. If the user has confident manual transfer skills this optional seat may be the best option. Clients with a height adjustable plinth may prefer to use this.
General Limitations
Each Tek RMD model that is delivered to a new customer is setup in the factory or our warehouse to each users individual stature and proportions. The limitations of adjustment are as follows
• The user’s height should be between 140 and 190 cm
• The users weight should be between 40 and 120 Kg
• The overall foot length should be between 23 and 35 cms
Making the most of the Tek RMD
By using the Tek RMD you can dramatically improve the way you live in your indoor or outdoor space. To get the very best out of it though, you may need to think a little bit differently and potentially make some changes to your environment. One positive fact we can state right away is that the Tek RMD is both shorter and narrower than a wheelchair so that if you can navigate through your indoor environment with your existing wheelchair, you can certainly do that much more easily with the Tek RMD.
After some time you may find that you need to use your wheelchair much less indoors – you will be using your Tek RMD much more as it simply allows you to do more.
An issue we first need to consider is how best to get on and off the device.
You can transfer from your wheelchair to the Tek RMD but in order to do so, generally you will need to have a wheelchair with at least tilt-up foot rests and removable sides. If you have fixed foot rests its likely that you can't get the Tek RMD close enough to make transfer easy.
The image here shows an “ideal” situation with the Manual Tek RMD version. The user has a wheelchair with removable foot rests and arms. He has been able to get the seat cushion under his hips and his feet into position for the pull to standing position.
The ideal user may be able to transfer like this.
Having visited lots of clients at home we have seen many scenarios that would actually make transfers from any device problematic.
One of the really nice aspects of the Tek RMD is that transfers onto it can be a lot easier than transfers into a typical wheelchair. However, in order to make this a reality the current nature of your environment should be considered.
Whether you are going to be using the Tek RMD at home or at an office an assessment of the premises can help.
Are you clear about what types of situations you want to use the device in?
Do you want to be able to transport the device? How will this be done?
To get onto the Tek RMD you are going to need to bring it to you, perhaps using the remote control, and the "tail" of the device needs to go under the surface, (perhaps a bed or chair)you are sitting on. This means that there must be sufficient clearance underneath.
For example, if the chair you are on has a base that extends right to the floor this is going to be an issue because you wont be able to safely get your feet onto the device and the seat cushion in place because of this base keeping the Tek RMD too far away from you. Also, if you try to transfer from a really soft surface you might have problems getting the cushion in place. There is always a solution though – it just means getting the right guidance so that essential equipment works together!!
Frequent questions
Q: IS THE TEK RMD APPROPRIATE FOR MY HEIGHT AND WEIGHT?
A: The TEK RMD is appropriate for users from 4’7” (140 cm) to 6’3” (190 cm) and the product can support weights from 88 lbs (40kg) to 265 lbs (120kg).
Q: HOW DO I KNOW IF I CAN USE THE TEK RMD?
A: You should first of all read the guidance we provide and pay special attention to the contraindications for use. In all cases our staff will wish to ensure that the system is going to be safe and effective for the user. We will assess each potential user and make sure that the essential requirements for the system are met. We will also take the measurements needed to ensure that the TEK RMD is optimised for each user. Normally the system is configured in the factory and shipped directly to our warehouse. We will then bring this to the user. One of our staff will then make the fittings and adjustments and ensure training is carried out.
Q: WHERE CAN I USE THE TEK RMD?
A: The TEK RMD allows for free, independent movement in most indoor spaces, such as the home, office, school or shopping centre. Its compact dimensions, 15.6" wide and 29.5" long (39.5 cm X 75 cm), allow it to fit through narrow spaces that are often inaccessible to wheelchairs. When not in use, the TEK RMD can simply be manoeuvred (by using a remote control) to an out-of-the-way place, ensuring that you can sit on a couch or chair, free from your mobility device altogether.
The outdoor wheels have dimensions of 23.5” wide and 40.3” long (60 cm x 103 cm). Larger tires and a wider and longer footprint give the Tek RMD the stability to drive on uneven outdoor spaces safely. This includes pavements, patios, paved walking and biking paths, as well as grass and gravel – under safe discretion. Maximum slope in outdoor mode, and in a safe driving position is 6 degrees.
When not in use, the Tek RMD can simply be manoeuvred by using the remote control to an out-of-the-way place, ensuring that you can sit on a couch, bed or chair, with the device out of your way.
Q: HOW DO I KNOW THAT THE TEK RMD IS SAFE?
A: In designing the TEK RMD, the manufacturers emphasised safety above all else. Because you can easily get into the device from the back without assistance, the TEK RMD eliminates the often-dangerous manoeuvres that are required for getting into wheelchairs (like using upper-body strength and momentum to hoist into it). With the TEK RMD, your own weight is used for stability, and the device holds key balance points to prohibit unwanted movements and keep you steady.
The TEK RMD was rigorously tested before releasing it to the market, including putting it through extensive trials at Heidelberg University Hospital, where paraplegics tested the device for themselves and offered valuable feedback that made the TEK RMD even better. At the time the TEK RMD comes onto the market, the system will have undergone a series of TÜV (Technical Inspection Association) tests to verify that the system meets international safety standards.
Q: HOW DOES THE TEK RMD RUN AND OPERATE?
A: Like motorised wheelchairs, the TEK RMD is battery-operated. The manual version works by balancing the weight of the user with a pressurised gas spring, similar to those found in adjustable office chairs, so that standing up requires less effort.
The Electric Lifter version takes away the effort involved in standing or sitting again. The user operates a lever to rise or sit.
Q: HOW DO YOU CHARGE THE TEK RMD?
A: The device comes with a battery charger, which is plugged into a traditional electrical outlet. The device is fully charged in 4.5 hours and can be charged overnight. On average a charge will last about 1 to 2 days depending the weight of the user and the floor surface.
There are two sealed unit batteries within the unit that can be expected to last for 2 years before replacement.
Q: HOW DO I TRANSPORT THE TEK RMD?
A: The device can be transported most easily in a van. Using its remote control, the TEK RMD can be easily guided up and down ramps for easy loading and unloading. It’s too heavy to manually lift into a vehicle.
Q: CAN I USE THE TEK RMD ON RAMPS?
A: The product can be used on ramps typical of those found in shopping centres of less than 6 degrees. The user can adjust their position to increase stability and avoid the feeling that they will tip forward or backward. We cover this topic in product deliveries.
Q: WHERE IS THE TEK RMD MADE?
A: The product is made in the United States in Salt Lake City, Utah THE TEK RMD?
Q: WHAT IS THE OUTDOOR RANGE?
A: It’s 7.72 km – approximately 4.68 miles
Q: CAN I USE THE Tek RMD IN THE RAIN?
A: The product is tested in wet conditions and has IPX4 level water ingress protection.