Introduction
In the blink of an eye, your life could be dramatically different. That's the thought that runs through my head whenever I am surrounded by the world's top competitive adaptive athletes. Working at adaptive fitness competitions has given me a unique perspective on life. I no longer get to make excuses for not being in shape or not having the motivation to use the gym that sits thirty feet away from me. Two significant conditions we often encounter are brachial plexus injuries and amputations.
Understanding Brachial Plexus Injuries
The Mayo Clinic defines the brachial plexus as: "The brachial plexus is the group of nerves that sends signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. A brachial plexus injury happens when these nerves are stretched, squeezed together, or in the most serious cases, ripped apart or torn away from the spinal cord." For more detailed information, you can refer to the Mayo Clinic's Brachial Plexus Injury Page.
Some of the most common ways that brachial plexus injuries occur are motorcycle accidents, ATV accidents, skiing accidents, or generally falling with a high impact on your shoulder area.
Adaptive Fitness Solutions for Brachial Plexus Injuries and Amputees
In our work, we frequently see athletes performing incredible feats with one hand, using adaptive equipment designed to help them maintain their fitness and competitive edge. Equip Products offers a range of solutions that are particularly beneficial for those with brachial plexus injuries and amputees.
Aldridge Arm™:
A revolutionary strap harness that enables individuals to perform deadlifts and other weightlifting exercises with two points of contact, even if they can only use one arm. This device provides stability and balance, allowing athletes with brachial plexus injuries and amputees to train effectively and safely.
Concept2 Row Erg:
This adaptive rowing machine is perfect for athletes who want to maintain cardiovascular fitness. It can be used with one arm and is made easier with the Rower Hook, ensuring that individuals with brachial plexus injuries and amputees can still engage in rigorous, heart-pumping workouts.
Mono Rope for Single-Arm Jump Rope:
Jump rope exercises are excellent for cardio, and the Mono Rope from Equip Products allows athletes to perform these exercises using just one arm, ensuring a full-body workout that accommodates their limitations.
Living with Brachial Plexus Injuries and Amputation
Many brachial plexus injury survivors will wrap their impaired arm in a sling to keep it close to the body during workouts. This helps stabilize the arm and prevent further injury. In some severe cases, individuals opt for amputation to ease their daily lives. While both amputees and brachial plexus injury survivors often use similar tools for recovery and fitness, the nature of their injuries and their experiences are distinctly different.
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
The path to recovery from a brachial plexus injury or an amputation is often long and challenging. It requires a combination of physical therapy, adaptive equipment, and a strong support system. Equip Products' range of adaptive fitness tools plays a crucial role in helping individuals regain their strength and mobility.
Mental and Emotional Well-being:
Maintaining an active lifestyle has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and boost cognitive function. This is especially important for individuals recovering from a brachial plexus injury or adapting to life as an amputee, as the journey can be mentally and emotionally taxing.
Conclusion
The resilience and determination of adaptive athletes are truly inspiring. They remind us that physical limitations do not define one's capabilities. Equip Products is proud to support these athletes by providing innovative adaptive fitness solutions that help them overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. Whether you are recovering from a brachial plexus injury or living as an amputee, the right tools and a positive mindset can make all the difference in your fitness journey.
Equip Products' commitment to quality and innovation ensures that athletes of all abilities have access to the best equipment available. Embrace your potential and discover how adaptive fitness can transform your life.