Video: Physiotherapist invents a sit-to-stand rehab tool that offers an “extra pair of hands” for therapists

A chartered physiotherapist has worked with a rehabilitation solution manufacturer to invent a sit-to-stand rehabilitation tool that is designed to keep the user’s feet grounded while offering maximum comfort.

Ashley Shepherd, who has almost 30 years of physiotherapy experience, is the brainchild behind the new sit-to-stand device, StandSure. The device can be incorporated into rehabilitation programmes.

While treating a lady who had a stroke, Ashley saw that every time the lady went to stand up, her affected leg kept lifting up off the floor. The lady’s husband had to crouch down on the floor to keep her leg on the ground. He wished there was a way to keep her foot on the ground, which got Ashley thinking.

After researching online for a suitable solution, Ashley noticed there was nothing on the market to offer the “extra pair of hands” healthcare professionals often need during rehabilitation programmes. Her struggle intensified during the COVID-19 lockdowns with the social distancing measures and not being able to have an extra therapist in the room with her.

Watch the short video below where Ashley explains the story behind StandSure:

Ashley showed RMS a rehabilitation product that she had made out of wood and glue that she was using in most of her rehabilitation routines with great results. Seeing the great potential in the product too, RMS decided to work with Ashley to bring her invention – the StandSure – to life.

Having launched in mid-September, StandSure is now available through RMS.

Repetitive sit-to-stand therapy has been demonstrated to improve walking patterns, balance reactions, endurance, symmetrical load bearing, and ability to climb stairs in patients with a range of neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, RMS highlights.

StandSure keeps the user’s feet and ankles securely in place while enabling them to practice and learn the standing movement and strengthening all the muscles that go along with that movement.

It is a simple, durable, and ergonomic aid tool for consumption by healthcare professionals and carers, which is then left with user as part of their at-home rehabilitation programmes. Manufactured in the UK by RMS, StandSure is available in three sizes to fit small children to large adults.

Additionally, the device can be quickly and easily set up for either users or healthcare professionals. It is portable, easy to store away when not in use, and can be used alongside other devices like standers.

StandSure also comes with ankle straps with adjustable webbing and offers an easy-to-clean service. According to RMS, StandSure users will see results from their first sit-to-stand therapy sessions.