SaeboFlex

The SaeboFlex is dynamic custom fabricated wrist, hand, and finger orthosis that allows stroke survivors the ability to incorporate the involved hand functionally in therapy and at home by supporting the weakened wrist, hand, and fingers. The brace attaches to the stroke survivors forearm, hand, and fingers. The device has no motor or electrical parts.

The SaeboReach is a dynamic custom fabricated elbow, wrist, hand, and finger orthosis. The SaeboReach consists of a combination of the SaeboFlex and a custom fabricated above-elbow component. The orthosis features an elbow extension system. The elbow extension system provides assistance in straightening the arm so functional reaching is possible. The SaeboReach was specifically designed for individuals that have limited hand and elbow function.

If you have limited or no use of your hand but your elbow is not affected, then the SaeboFlex may be appropriate for you. However, if you have limited or no use of your hand, AND you also have elbow limitations (weakness, increased tone etc…) that are impacting your functional independence, then the SaeboReach may be appropriate for you.

No. The SaeboFlex/SaeboReach orthoses, are specialised patented devices. Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists need to be trained in fitting the orthoses. If your therapist is not trained, they can access our free online training link or if you would like details of trained therapists in your area please contact our office [email protected] or 01707 323633.

To find the your nearest Saebo trained therapist, please contact our office at [email protected] or 01707 32363 or contact one of our Specialist Network Therapists

Absolutely not! When it comes to your health, recovery, and physical abilities, it is never too late to try. People up to 20 years post neurological injury can benefit from the orthoses. In addition, the ability to use the hand in therapy or at home has been reported as extremely motivating during the recovery process.

There are several ways to find out if you are a candidate. One way is to call our office and ask to speak with our Clinical Specialist. They can advise over the phone or via a video call. Another way to find out if you are a good candidate is to book an appointment with one one of our free assessment sites. These are private practitioners who have a SaeboFlex/Reach Assessment kit and offer the initial assessment free of charge. You can also book an appointment with our Clinical Specialist in our office in Welwyn Garden, free of charge.

Yes. You can visit one of our free assessment sites, or our office where, if appropriate, a SaeboFlex or SaeboReach will be built for you to try during the session. You can also access our 2 week free trial service – ask your Saebo trained therapist to contact us for details.

The SaeboFlex and the SaeboReach are custom-fabricated orthoses. Once an order is placed for these custom-fabricated products, the order cannot be cancelled or returned for any reason.

• The SaeboFlex and SaeboReach are splints that allow an impaired arm and hand to regain function.
• Normally, clients that have suffered a neurological injury such as stroke are unable to open or extend their fingers and their hand often is in a clenched or closed position.
• The SaeboFlex assists with hand opening and closing (grasping and releasing), while the SaeboReach, which includes the SaeboFlex, assists with both hand function and elbow straightening/arm reaching.
• The fingers and thumb are opened by a spring-loaded mechanism. These springs come in various tensions, depending on how much help the client needs to open his or her hand. The licensed therapist working with the client will decide which spring best fits his or her needs.
• Many times clients are not only unable to open their hand, but also have difficulty with extending their elbow. Because of this, the SaeboReach is a commonly prescribed treatment choice.
• By opening and closing the hand with the SaeboFlex or Reach, clients can retrain the brain and strengthen the muscles needed to perform daily tasks. It can also prevent tightening of the hand and shortening of the muscles, which can limit hand function even further.
• “If you don’t use it you will lose it.” With the client using his or her hand early and often following the injury, further loss of movement can be prevented and a faster recovery may occur.

• The SaeboFlex and SaeboReach are designed for individuals that have experienced a neurological injury such as stroke, head injury or spinal cord injury.
• Clients that demonstrate arm and hand weakness and are unable to use their hand to perform everyday tasks are great candidates for this device.
• The onset of the injury does not prevent someone from receiving Saebo treatment. Whether the client just had a stroke, or if he or she suffered an injury years ago, the SaeboFlex and Reach can be of great benefit.
• A licensed therapist will evaluate the client to make sure he or she meets the criteria before starting.
• Criteria includes:
  • Some ability to move the shoulder (1/4 range of elevation).
  • Some ability to move the elbow (1/4 range of elbow bending).
  • Some ability to curl the fingers (1/4 range of finger flexion).
  • Little to no contractures in the hand or arm. Too much stiffness in the hand or elbow can prevent a client form using the device.

• Once the client receives the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach, his or her therapist will create a treatment plan to follow in the clinic and at home. A sample Saebo session may consist of various hand and arm activities and exercises that challenge the affected side.
• Often times, with the help of the Saebo splint, the client will be able to immediately (on day 1) use his or her impaired hand to grasp and release objects for the very first time. Many clients/family members (and therapists) enjoy this special moment as it provides excitement and encouragement that more recovery is possible.
• The SaeboFlex and SaeboReach have been used with thousands of neurological clients since 2001. Although results vary, many clients are able to regain lost movement over time.
• Common challenges like getting dressed, typing on a keyboard, or returning to work are now possible with Saebo.
• Like all medical treatments, the amount of recovery cannot be guaranteed, however, clients that are motivated and compliant with the daily home program tend to have better outcomes.

• Clients that may not be appropriate for the SaeboFlex or SaeboReach typically exhibit one or more of the below:
  • Severe joint deformities in the hand or elbow.
  • Significant arthritis.
  • Severe tightness in the hand or elbow.
  • Moderate or severe swelling in the hand.
  • Open wounds.
  • Unable to follow basic commands.