QLI physical therapist Brad and resident Abe demonstrate a useful technique for transferring from the floor to a higher surface with a spinal cord injury.

In Phase One, Abe starts from a long sitting position and works his way to a tall kneeling position against the surface (in this case, a mat). A key point here is to be aware of the position of the knees, making sure they do not get too far under or in front (this is especially problematic on a taller surface, such as a bed).

In Phase Two, Abe will attempt to clear his hips over the edge of the surface. If triceps strength is sufficient, the patient could straighten his arms to support his torso in an upright position. If not, the best option is to use elbows and hands to crawl forward onto the mat. If possible, triggering a spasm to straighten a leg to clear the femur is a useful technique. To help Abe along in mastering this transfer, Brad moves behind him and straightens his legs out a bit, allowing Abe to continue crawling forward and sliding his legs past the edge of the mat.

Once fully on the mat, Abe is able to turn himself onto his back and return to a seated position on the higher surface.