Transferring
The animation at right shows a very standard type of transfer. In this series, I am cradling her knees in my left arm and gripping the base of her skull with my right hand.
This technique had to be modified because I gave myself carpal tunnel in my right wrist, and Tessa couldn’t take the grip around her neck any more. So I changed my technique to cradling her neck in the crook of my right arm. At first, this bruised her ear, and she developed an injury like MMA fighters get. But I modified my lift so that her ear is not against my body. And that’s how we still do it.
Tessa becomes very short of breath in less than twenty seconds, and she cannot breathe during a transfer. So if I become unable to do this lift we will have to change the entire procedure. At first, I developed many back injuries (mostly spasms) and we had to get extra help until I healed. With the help of excellent doctors, I modified my athletic training so that I don’t get injured anymore. Haven’t had back trouble in YEARS!
I realize that none of this is helpful
if you’re transferring your husband or son
who is twice your weight.
This guy likes to do much of his own transferring
This guy invented a pivot device for transferring people who have ability to assist.
I will post a link to his site MrSwivel.com. You can see more of his videos over there. I am not an affiliate advertiser for him. I just think it’s a clever product.
As always, if you have a question for one of us or for both of us, send us an e-mail. If you have a comment, visit our forum.
