Arm and hand function aids in Australia

Restore Reach, Grip, and Hand Function with the Right Equipment

When arm or hand function is reduced, whether from muscular dystrophy, spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, or progressive neurological conditions, the impact on independence is immediate. Eating, drinking, typing, operating a phone, turning a page, brushing teeth, and dozens of other daily tasks rely on the ability to reach, grasp, and manipulate objects.

Arm and hand function aids range from simple adaptive grips to powered mobile arm supports that compensate for significant muscle weakness. The right device depends on what the person can still do, what they need to do, and how their condition is likely to change over time.

Through Carevo, you can connect with arm and hand function aid providers in Australia who assess upper limb function, prescribe appropriate devices, and provide ongoing support as needs change.

Who Needs Upper Limb Assistive Technology

• People with neuromuscular conditions (muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, motor neurone disease) who are losing arm strength.
• People with spinal cord injury who have limited or no hand function.
• People recovering from stroke who have weakness or spasticity in one arm.
• People with cerebral palsy affecting upper limb control.
• People with arthritis or repetitive strain injuries who cannot grip or pinch effectively.
• People with peripheral nerve injuries affecting hand sensation or movement.

Types of Arm and Hand Function Aids

Providers through Carevo assess, supply, and configure:

Mobile Arm Supports (MAS) Mechanical or powered devices that support the weight of the arm, allowing the person to move their hand through space using minimal effort. Mechanical MAS use springs or counterbalances to eliminate gravity. Powered MAS use motors to assist arm movement. These devices mount to a wheelchair, table, or desk and enable people with significant arm weakness to feed themselves, use a computer, and perform other tabletop activities.

Functional Hand Splints Splints that position the hand in a functional grasp pattern, allowing the person to hold objects. Tenodesis splints use wrist extension to close the fingers for people with C6/C7 spinal cord injury. Resting splints maintain hand position and prevent contracture. Functional splints are custom-made by an OT or orthotist.

Universal Cuffs and Adaptive Grips Simple straps and cuffs that hold utensils, pens, toothbrushes, or other objects in the hand when grip strength is insufficient. Universal cuffs are the simplest upper limb aids and can be life-changing for people who cannot hold objects independently.

Robotic and Powered Assistive Devices Emerging technology including powered exoskeletons for the hand and arm, and robotic feeding devices. These are prescribed for people with very limited upper limb function and are typically funded through NDIS AT supports.

Wrist and Forearm Supports Supports that stabilise the wrist in a functional position during activity, reducing fatigue and pain. Wrist supports are commonly used by people with weak wrist extensors, carpal tunnel syndrome, or inflammatory arthritis.

Writing and Typing Aids Weighted pens, pen grips, writing guides, adapted keyboards, and styluses for touchscreens. These compensate for tremor, weak grip, or limited finger isolation.

Eating and Drinking Aids Weighted and angled cutlery, plate guards, non-slip mats, two-handled cups, and adaptive straws. For people with more significant weakness, powered feeding devices can lift food from a plate to the mouth.

The Assessment Process

1. Upper limb assessment. An OT or physiotherapist assesses muscle strength, range of movement, sensation, coordination, and functional ability across both arms and hands.
2. Functional goal setting. The therapist identifies which activities the person wants to perform and prioritises the most impactful interventions.
3. Equipment trial. The therapist trials different devices with the person to determine the most effective solution. Mobile arm supports and functional splints require precise setup.
4. Prescription and fitting. The therapist prescribes the equipment and arranges custom fitting where required.
5. Training. The person receives training in using the equipment for their target activities.
6. Review. Regular reviews ensure the equipment continues to meet needs, particularly for people with progressive conditions.

Funding Arm and Hand Function Aids

• NDIS Assistive Technology: Upper limb aids from simple grips to powered mobile arm supports are funded under NDIS AT supports. Complex items require an AT assessment report.
• NDIS Capacity Building: Assessment and therapy sessions are funded under Improved Daily Living.
• Support at Home: Aids and assistive technology are funded through the separate Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme, which provides needs-based funding tiers rather than coming out of your quarterly ongoing services budget.
• DVA: Eligible veterans can access upper limb assistive technology through DVA.
• State Equipment Programs: SWEP (Victoria), EnableNSW, and equivalent programs may fund upper limb devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mobile arm support? A mobile arm support is a device that takes the weight of the arm, eliminating the effect of gravity. This means a person who cannot lift their arm against gravity can still move it horizontally to reach food, a keyboard, or other items on a table. Mechanical versions use springs. Powered versions use small motors. They mount to a wheelchair, table, or desk.

Can splints improve hand function after stroke? Functional splints can improve hand use after stroke by positioning the hand for grasp and supporting weak muscles. However, splints work best as part of a rehabilitation program that includes hand therapy. Your OT will assess whether a splint is appropriate and how it fits with your overall recovery plan.

Are powered feeding devices available in Australia? Yes. Devices like the Obi robotic feeder and Neater Eater are available and can be funded through NDIS AT supports. These are prescribed for people with very limited arm function who cannot feed themselves even with mobile arm supports or adapted utensils.

How often should upper limb aids be reviewed? For people with stable conditions, annual review is sufficient. For progressive conditions like MND or muscular dystrophy, reviews should occur more frequently, every three to six months, to stay ahead of declining function and ensure equipment continues to meet needs.

Related Assistive Technology Services

Arm and hand function aids often work alongside daily living and kitchen aids, computer and switch access for digital device use, specialist seating for optimal upper limb positioning, and orthoses and splinting for wrist and hand support. A comprehensive assistive technology assessment can address all your upper limb and independence needs.

Find an Arm and Hand Function Aid Provider in Australia

Get matched with someone who can help with arm and hand function aids in Australia For a free, no-obligation discussion about arm and hand function aids in Australia.