Prime Engineering ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER

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1 OWNER S MANUAL PRODUCT PHOTO PARTS LIST ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS FITTING & ADJUSTING DAILY USAGE ACCESSORIES MAINTENANCE WARRANTY Prime Engineering ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER Manufactured By Prime Engineering A Division of Axiom Industries Industries, Inc W. Sierra Madre Avenue Fresno, CA USA Tel: (559) Toll-free: (800) 82-STAND Fax: (800) info@primeengineering.com Web Site: TOLWOM

2 PRIME ENGINEERING ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER CAUTION: Consult with your Physician or Therapist before using The Original Lift Walker or any other walking/standing device. DO NOT use The Original Lift Walker before you are thoroughly familiar with all the safety warnings and instructions. Consult a Physician or Therapist to determine the proper adjustment for The Original Lift Walker. Take the time to do it right. The Original Lift Walker is designed for independent operation with safety and security for many different types of assisted walking needs. Consult with your Physician or Therapist regarding your use of The Original Lift Walker. Congratulations on your choice of The Original Lift Walker for your gait-training and/or assisted walking needs. This unique device will aide in rising and supporting the upper body during walking. Before Using: Carefully read these instructions and completely familiarize yourself with the adjustments and operation of the Original Lift Walker before use. This owner s manual is organized into the following sections: 1. Product Photo 2. Parts List 3. Assembly Instructions 4. Fitting and Adjustment a) Chest Harness b) Arm Supports c) Elbow/Hand Supports d) Ankle Straps 5. Daily Usage 6. Common Questions 7. Maintenance 8. Warranty Enjoy your Original Lift Walker! The Original Lift Walker is designed for independent operation with safety and security for those with many different types of disabilities. Consult with your Physician or Therapist regarding your use of The Original Lift Walker. In addition, we have enclosed a number of Notes to help you in assembling and using your Original Lift Walker. We want to do everything we can to insure your comfort and safety. We ve designed the Original Lift Walker for easy assembly. Each Original Lift Walker is pre-assembled at Prime Engineering to insure that everything works properly. If, however, you have any problems or require any further assistance, please give us a call at STAND. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

PRIME ENGINEERING ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER Product Specifications: Standard Base: Overall Base Length 36 Overall Base Width large base 29.5 outside / 27 inside.

3 PRIME ENGINEERING ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER Product Specifications: Standard Base: Overall Base Length 36 Overall Base Width large base 29.5 outside / 27 inside. User height from Patient Weight capacity 230 lbs. Narrow Base: Overall Base Length 36 Overall Base Width small base 23 outside / 20.5 inside. Client height from Patient Weight capacity 230 lbs. Chest Harness: Small Chest Harness fits chest size Large Chest Harness fits chest size Weight: Assembled Unit 65 lbs. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

4 PARTS LIST The Original Lift Walker comes partially assembled in one (1) carton. Carton contains: Owner s Manual Base with casters Upright Post Assembly w/left and right diagonal braces Chest Harness Left and right arm supports Hydraulic pump assembly The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

Base Assembly: Locate the wheeled base and the upright post assembly with the diagonal braces. Lock casters on the wheeled base.

the hole on front of the upright post assembly (Figure 1).

Make sure push button locks through holes on brace receiver mount. 3.

5 ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS Figure 1 Figure 2 1. Check contents of box to insure all parts match the checklist. 2. Base Assembly: Locate the wheeled base and the upright post assembly with the diagonal braces. Lock casters on the wheeled base. Slide the upright post assembly over the mounting tube on the base making sure the push button on the front of the post locks through the hole on front of the upright post assembly (Figure 1). Secure diagonal braces into receiver mounts located on the right and left sides of the wheeled base rails (Figure 2). Make sure push button locks through holes on brace receiver mount. 3. Chest Harness Assembly: Insert the lower lift beam between the chest harness mount plates and attach with pull pin in bottom mounting hole (Figure 3). Insert upper lift beam between chest harness mount plates and attach with pull pin in upper mounting hole (Figure 4). Make sure chest harness is installed with arm support mounting bar positioned under chest harness. Figure 3 Figure 4 The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (Continued) Figure 5 4.

pin. Note: Pump handle must be pointing to the left side of entry of base for proper installation (Figure 5).

5. Arm Support Assemblies: Loosen the t-knob on large mounting block on the under side of the arm supports.

6 ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (Continued) Figure 5 4. Pump Assembly: Insert lower pump mounting bracket between pump mounting bushings located on the upright post assembly attaching with enclosed pull pin. Note: Pump handle must be pointing to the left side of entry of base for proper installation (Figure 5). Insert lower lift beam between lower left beam bushings located on the top of the pump. Secure pump assembly with the included pull pin (Figure 6). 5. Arm Support Assemblies: Loosen the t-knob on large mounting block on the under side of the arm supports. Slide the arm supports onto the arm support mounting bars. Note: Hand prompts should be pointing inward toward the upright post assembly, arm supports are marked right and left on underside of arm trays (Figure 7). Secure arm supports with t-knobs. Figure 6 Figure 7 The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

FITTING AND ADJUSTING FITTING THE CHEST HARNESS When using the Original Lift Walker with a wheelchair, complete removal of the wheelchair armrests and footrests allow for ease of placement and

Remove or loosen the center t-knob on the underside of each arm support and slide arm supports out to make enough room for the chest harness to be fitted to the client s torso.

7 FITTING AND ADJUSTING FITTING THE CHEST HARNESS When using the Original Lift Walker with a wheelchair, complete removal of the wheelchair armrests and footrests allow for ease of placement and adjustment of the Original Lift Walker. Remove or loosen the center t-knob on the underside of each arm support and slide arm supports out to make enough room for the chest harness to be fitted to the client s torso. Wheel the Original Lift Walker in front of the client, with the chest harness facing the client. As you bring the Original Lift Walker forward have the client lift their arms and lean into the chest harness (Figure 8). Figure 8 Be certain that the knobs on the underside of the arm supports are an inch or two above the client s lap. This clearance is necessary in order to adjust the t-knobs. Center the chest harness against the client s midsection. Be certain the client s chest is pressed securely against the chest harness. There should be NO space between the client s chest and the front of the harness. Fasten the belt behind the client s back and tighten snugly. Do not over-tighten the belt. The purpose of the belt is to keep the body forward in the correct position. You should be able to wedge your fingers between the client s back and the belt to ensure there is enough room to allow normal breathing (Figure 9). Note: The upper cushion of the chest pad needs to be fully extended over the front of the chest harness assembly. This will protect the client from hitting the top parallel tube if they are able to stretch that far forward. Figure 9 The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

Proper arm adjustment will additionally assure that the client s weight is distributed evenly between the arms, torso, and legs. Adjust Arm Supports: Lift the client s arm clear of the support.

8 FITTING AND ADJUSTING (Continued) ADJUSTING THE ARM SUPPORTS Object: These adjustments keep the upper arms in a vertical position. The goal is always to get the body in as natural a walking position as possible. Proper arm adjustment will additionally assure that the client s weight is distributed evenly between the arms, torso, and legs. Adjust Arm Supports: Lift the client s arm clear of the support. Holding the support from underneath, slide it directly toward the ribcage. Get it as close as possible to the body leaving just enough space to hold the arm comfortably. Tighten the center T-knob to secure it. Now place the client s forearm in the arm support (Figure 10). Figure 10 View from the back of the client to assure that the upper arms are as vertical as possible. There should be no outward slant from shoulder to elbow. THE ARMS MUST BE AS CLOSE TO THE TORSO AS POSSIBLE FOR PROPER SUPPORT (Figure 11). Figure 11 The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

FITTING AND ADJUSTING (Continued) ADJUSTING THE ELBOW AND HAND PROMPTS Figure 12 Figure 13 Object: Elbow and hand prompts keep the forearms in their proper position.

If the elbows are too far forward, it can cause the client to lean backwards.

Be sure the upper arm is straight up and down and the elbow is at a 90-degree angle (Figure 13). Tighten the T-knob to secure the elbow prompt in this position.

The position of the hand prompts can additionally be changed to lay sideways or lean backward to best fit the palm.

9 FITTING AND ADJUSTING (Continued) ADJUSTING THE ELBOW AND HAND PROMPTS Figure 12 Figure 13 Object: Elbow and hand prompts keep the forearms in their proper position. Note: It is crucial that the client s elbows are directly below the shoulder socket. The client s upper arms must be vertical (Figure 12). If the elbows are too far forward, it can cause the client to lean backwards. Adjust the Elbow Prompts: Loosen the elbow prompts and adjust the position of the elbow so that it is directly below the shoulder socket as you view it from the side. Be sure the upper arm is straight up and down and the elbow is at a 90-degree angle (Figure 13). Tighten the T-knob to secure the elbow prompt in this position. Secure the forearms into the arm support pads with the Velcro straps. Adjust the hand prompts: If the client is able to grip these prompts, it will assist in keeping a proper arm position (Figure 14). The position of the hand prompts can additionally be changed to lay sideways or lean backward to best fit the palm. If the client is still unable to grip the prompt, try refastening the Velcro arm strap so that it angles down and back to hold the arm against the elbow pad. Note: The Original Lift Walker can be used successfully by individuals who have limited hand function. USING THE ANKLE PROMPTS Figure 14 Object: These adjustments can slightly separate the knees or keep the lower extremities centered. This will also benefit clients with lateral balance problems by keeping them centered in the Original Lift Walker. 1. Attach the Velcro cuffs to the ankles (Figure 15). 2. Adjust the length of the Velcro cuffs, separating the legs just enough to allow reciprocal steps. For greater adjustment, loosen or tighten the strap with the buckle. Figure 15 The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

DAILY USAGE WARNING: CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR THERAPIST. The Original Lift Walker is to be used ONLY with the approval and advice of a Physician or Therapist.

10 DAILY USAGE WARNING: CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR THERAPIST. The Original Lift Walker is to be used ONLY with the approval and advice of a Physician or Therapist. Be certain that you do NOT have functional restrictions which might prevent you from using this device. USING YOUR ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER Warning: Never use unattended. The Lift Walker should not be used on sloping or uneven surfaces. Thick carpet may impede movement. GETTING READY TO STAND Again, check all adjustments making sure they are correct. It will make all the difference in the client s ability to progress steadily and comfortably. Allow the walker to roll forward as you raise the client to the standing position. Bring the torso directly over their feet as soon as possible and they should begin to help by pushing up with their legs. This forward movement of the torso and walker is approximately 18 inches for an adult, or the distance from the client s hip socket to their knees. 1. Make sure the wheel locks are NOT set so that the Original Lift Walker will be able to move forward as the client s body rises forward. 2. To help some stand, it is easiest to assist from their left side. Place your left hand on the pump handle and your right hand on the back of the client. You may find it helpful to grip the safety belt at the client s back with your right hand to pull them forward when you raise them up (Figure 16). Figure As you begin to pump, the client begins to stand. As they rise from the chair, smoothly bring their torso directly over their feet with their upper body leaning forward over the chest pad. In this position they should be able to help you by pushing upward with their legs. NOTE: If client is not positioned correctly, return them to a sitting position to make additional adjustments. PLEASE NOTE: If the client tends to lean backwards, make certain that their elbows are adjusted back far enough to help counteract this tendency. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

11 DAILY USAGE (Continued) STANDING IN THE ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER Depending on the client s ambulatory skill level and muscle tone you may need to approach standing very gradually. 1. If the client is weak, only raise them a few inches and then release, gradually increasing the frequency and duration of these repetitions as they gain strength. 2. If the client has limited upper body strength, raise them to a standing position for very short intervals in the first few sessions until they grow stronger from repeated activity. 3. As the client develops more strength, allow them to remain in a standing position for as long as they are able, while they practice balance and muscle control. For many clients, just standing may be a huge workout at first. We recommend a program of gradual increase. When their upper body strength is increased, support and posture improve and the walking therapy will be more easily accomplished. GRADUAL INCREASE IS THE KEY! WALKING IN THE ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER When standing strength is developed or present, you may begin walking. The most efficient position for directional prompting is standing behind the client with your hands firmly grasping the upper arms. You may need to help keep forward momentum by pushing the client gently forward at the same rate of speed as they are stepping. Be sure to maintain the proper height adjustment. You may need to make height adjustments frequently. Generally, if the client is raised too high, they will not be able to make their steps propel them. If too low, their legs will appear to drag and they may not be able to lift their feet high enough to step forward. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

DAILY USAGE (Continued) LOWERING THE CLIENT IN THE ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER 1. Position the client directly in front of the seating surface you wish to lower them onto. 2.

12 DAILY USAGE (Continued) LOWERING THE CLIENT IN THE ORIGINAL LIFT WALKER 1. Position the client directly in front of the seating surface you wish to lower them onto. 2. Lower the client to the desired seated surface by minimally opening the pressure release valve (Figure 17). Open the valve slowly and counterclockwise, for a smooth and secure sitting motion. Note: Client weight can make the release mechanism react differently. Open the valve very slowly until you are use to its function and sensitivity. Figure Take care not to let the chest harness assembly settle on the client s lap. Close the pump release valve while there is still an inch or more clearance between the lap and the harness assembly. CAUTION! The release valve is very sensitive. It is important that you practice lowering the Original Lift Walker slowly and smoothly. Common Questions 1. QUESTION: The client leans too far back while being lifted or during standing and walking exercises. ANSWER: Please check these three things: a) Get the client s torso over their feet as soon as possible. If used move the client s wheelchair forward with the client as they begin to stand. b) Help the client lean forward as they stand up by placing forward pressure on their back as they rise. c) Make sure the client s elbows are adjusted in the arm supports properly, placing their torso in a position to lean forward as they pivot on their elbows. If the client's elbows are placed too far forward in the arm supports, they will have a tendency to lean backward. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

13 Common Questions (Continued) 2. QUESTION: The client s shoulders are hunched up around their ears as they are lifted in the Original Lift Walker. ANSWER: This is generally caused by weak upper body muscles. Be sure not to allow the client to remain in this position too long. We have found that as the client exerts himself the neck and shoulder muscles grow stronger. Soon these muscle groups are strong enough to hold the client s body in a good posture for standing and walking. Approach this development gently and gradually. If you have any questions regarding the strength necessary to utilize this device, please contact your prescribing therapist 3. QUESTION: The client s shoulders appear uneven or twisted. ANSWER: Lower the client back to a seated position and review the instructions for proper adjustments in the adjustments sections of this manual. Improper adjustment can be a contributing factor for bad posture in the Original Lift Walker. Occasionally a client may twist their shoulders even if they have been properly adjusted in the Original Lift Walker. In these cases, you will need to help them straighten out by using your hands to assist them in proper posture. 4. QUESTION: The client looks or feels like they will slip through the Original Lift Walker harness. ANSWER: The client is not adjusted properly in the Original Lift Walker. Immediately return the client to their seating surface. Make sure the client s chest is pressed firmly against the chest harness and snug the safety belt against their back. Make sure the chest harness is secure around the chest and not obstructed by the abdomen. Check that the client s arms are as close to the client s sides as possible and not too far in front of the client s body. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

14 Common Questions (Continued) 5. QUESTION: The Original Lift Walker slowly loses pressure while the client is standing in it. ANSWER: Check to make certain the pressure release valve on the pump is tightly closed. If the problem persists, there may be air trapped in the fluid reservoir. To bleed the trapped air, open the valve slightly, apply downward pressure to the beam and pump the handle 15 to 20 strokes. Repeat process if necessary. 6. QUESTION: The chest harness is too big. ANSWER: If you will be using the Original Lift Walker with very young children with chest sizes less than 25 inches, you will need to purchase the small chest harness assembly. The small chest harness will accommodate clients with chest sizes as small as 18 inches. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

15 GENERAL MAINTENANCE 1. When not in use, keep the chest harness in the down position to keep dirt and foreign matter from collecting around the pump ram. This practice will also keep the pump ram lubricated and protect this part from rust. 2. The pads are removable and held in place with Velcro. These pads should be cleaned with a mild cleanser or disinfectant. If your pads show signs of wear, they should be replaced. 3. Remove or fasten the ankle prompts to the base or diagonal strut when not in use to keep the ankle prompts from dragging on the floor. 4. Periodically insure nuts and bolts are secured properly. 5. Keep moving parts clean for free movement. The Original Lift Walker DOES NOT require lubrication. 6. DO NOT attempt to make any adjustments while standing or walking in the Original Lift Walker. 7. Any fabrics should be hand washed with mild soap and water, then allowed to air dry. The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

WARRANTY The Original Lift Walker Effective January 1, 1999 Limited Warranty Warranty coverage is extended to the original purchaser for as long as the original purchaser owns the Prime Engineering

16 WARRANTY The Original Lift Walker Effective January 1, 1999 Limited Warranty Warranty coverage is extended to the original purchaser for as long as the original purchaser owns the Prime Engineering system. This warranty is in effect for The Original Lift Walker (the product). Prime Engineering, Inc. ( the Company ) shall repair, or replace the Product that fails due to defect in material, or workmanship per the following schedule: Frames: Three years to the original purchaser subject to the following terms, limitations and conditions. Straps: One year to the original purchaser subject to the following terms, limitations and conditions. Hydraulic Unit: One year to the original purchaser subject to the following terms, limitations and conditions. Other Components: Upholstery, plastic parts, painted surfaces, rubber parts, bearings, casters and other parts not specifically identified above, all of which are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for three months from the original purchase date, subject to the following terms and conditions, and limitations. Warranty Conditions. This warranty shall be in effect from the original purchase date to the consumer. The warranty registration form should be fully completed, signed by the original retail purchaser / user or their agent, and received by Prime Engineering at its address set forth on the registration form no later than three months after the original purchase date. Any defective Product shall be delivered to Prime Engineering, or its local authorized dealer, at purchaser's expense for warranty inspection. Return freight charges shall be prepaid by Prime Engineering. You may contact Prime Engineering at (800) for authorized dealers in or near your location. Limitations and Exclusions. The warranty provided above shall not apply to (a) a serial numbered Product if the serial number has been removed or defaced; (b) any Product subjected to negligence, abuse, misuse, improper operation, maintenance, or storage, or damages beyond Prime Engineering s control, as determined by Prime Engineering; (c) defects arising from purchaser's failure to follow instructions. Any Changes or Additions to the Product of unauthorized parts not manufactured or furnished by Prime Engineering. The repair or replacement by Prime Engineering for a defective Part or Product shall be purchaser's sole and exclusive remedy under the warranty. Repair labor/service charges are not covered by this warranty and are not the responsibility of Prime Engineering. The foregoing Warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties, express, implied, or statutory, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose and design. In no event shall Prime Engineering be liable for any consequential or incidental damages. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitations of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state. Prime Engineering A division of Axiom Industries, Inc W. Sierra Madre Avenue Fresno, CA USA Toll-free: Fax: info@primeengineering.com The Original Lift Walker OWNER S MANUAL PRIME ENGINEERING

weight.detach/bench ITEM NO: 76310

weight.detach/bench ITEM NO: 76310 OWNER S MANUAL IMPORTANT: Read all instructions carefully before using this product. Retain this owner s manual for future reference. The specifications of this product