As a Maryland lift chair dealer, we often see customers in our mobility store who had no idea a lift chair is even an option. They may come for a wheelchair or a scooter rental and then realize that there is this other marvelous device that can make their life more comfortable. A lift chair is not for everyone, but for people with certain disabilities and mobility issues it can be of great help.
What Does a Lift Chair Do?
A lift chair (don’t confuse with a stair lift), is a chair that can move forward and upward to get you seated. So instead of you bending your knees, back and elbows, the chair comes up to offer you support. And when you need to get up, a lift chair will bring you to a standing position. There are many different models of lift chairs, and some can lean back so far, they turn into a bed. Many people find it more comfortable to sleep in a lift chair than in their own bed.
Who is a Lift Chair For?
A lift chair is a versatile mobility device many people with a variety of medical conditions find useful. Just to name a few:
Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy can come in many forms, including one of the rarest – inclusion-body myostitis (IBM) that has no known cure. Muscular dystrophy causes shrinkage and/or weakening of many key muscle groups we use on a daily basis. This disease may affect thigh and calf muscles, forearm and finger muscles, and even throat muscles. Needless to say, the simplest tasks such as standing up or walking can be difficult to accomplish without the full control and strength of your muscles. A lift chair can reduce the number of moves you need to make to sit down or stand up, as well as provide a comfortable surface for napping or even sleeping through the night.
Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement is a major surgery that requires general anesthesia. And after the surgery is finished, you will have to go through months of physical therapy until you can get close to your former range of motion. During the hip replacement recovery period patients are generally advised not to bend at the hip past 90 degrees, including bending forward at the waist and squatting. These limitations can make it difficult to get up from your bed or sit down in your favorite armchair. A lift chair can help you minimize unwanted movement at the hip, avoid pain and stick to your doctor’s recommendations.
Other Temporary Mobility Restrictions
Not all surgeries require a specific mobility regimen similar to that for hip replacement. However, just because you are allowed to perform certain motions, doesn’t mean they will be easy or pain-free. Surgeries like double mastectomy and back surgery make it painful to do just about anything. Even minor injuries like a stretched muscle or a twisted ankle can greatly inconvenience you during the recovery period. In these situations, even though a lift chair may not be mandatory, you will get incredible relief and comfort from using one.
Arthritis and Old Age
As we get older, we lose flexibility in our joints and muscles, which is often worsened by chronic arthritis. Add poor sight and poor balance, and everyday tasks can become difficult if not dangerous. A lift chair is great for seniors who experience pain when bending their joints, as it makes it less straining on the joints to sit down or get up. Interested in learning more about lift chairs? Stop by at our Hanover, MD mobility equipment showroom to try one for yourself! Or give us a call with any questions.