In my 20-plus years as a quadriplegic, the technology of adaptive-gripping devices hasn’t changed a whole lot. Although hooks and Velcro straps work well, you usually need to purchase several aids to handle all the household items you might use during the day. But a new device called Fiber aims to replace traditional adaptive-gripping aids. Adaptive device company Hominid X sent a demo unit of Fiber for me to test, and here’s what I found.

The Details

Fiber is a wearable aid for those with hand weakness or paralysis. The device fastens around the wrist like a watch. The wrist strap also includes a finger strap that wraps around the pointer and middle fingers, and a spring-loaded cable that extends from the wrist to attach to a small hook on the finger strap. Once hooked, the cable retracts and pulls your fingers around the object to be held, creating a secure grasp. Fiber can be used on either the right or left hand and can be adjusted to fit different-sized wrists and hands.

Fiber is made of a silicone material that can be worn all day. I wore it for a few hours with no irritation to my skin. I was also able to push my wheelchair with little interference. I doubt that Fiber is something I would wear all day, but it seems doable for those who would want to.

The Test

As a C5-6 quad with curled fingers, I did need help putting on the device. The wrist strap is like a traditional watchband, and the finger strap goes around the fingers and is secured with a little peg; I could fasten either on my own. Once Fiber was on, however, I could independently grasp most of the items that I tested. I would position an item in my hand, then pull the retractable cable around it with my teeth to secure it to the finger strap. With Fiber, I could independently use a pen, electric toothbrush, hairbrush and iPhone. Usually I use an adaptive writing splint, but Fiber is far superior to that. It held the pen securely and eliminated the shakiness in my writing that comes from my weak wrist and forearm. Similarly, Fiber proved much better than the adaptive handles I use for holding my toothbrush and hairbrush. I didn’t like using Fiber with my iPhone, since it curled my fingers over the touchscreen and activated the phone when I didn’t want it to. But the grip was excellent, and I wasn’t afraid of dropping the phone. The last thing I tried was a water bottle. I needed help wrapping my fingers around the bottle, but the grip was solid. I had to forcefully shake my hand to free the bottle from my grasp.

The Verdict

Altogether, my experience with Fiber was excellent. I will use it to replace most of the adaptive devices that I use to grip everyday items. I’m sure others will find creative ways to use Fiber as well. It is available in four colors, and retails for $99. For more information, visit Hominid X.