A Man from the South

 Biomechanics Blog 4: A Man from the South

    While reading this story, there was one part that stood out to me particularly. The solider stated after agreeing to the bet that his little finger has no purpose and has done nothing for him; however, we as future OT practitioners know that this is not true. After losing a finger, your grip strength will be greatly impacted. The occupations that may impact this soldier will range from some difficulties grasping ADL tools like (cups, toothbrushes, etc.). In regard to being a soldier, he may have some trouble handling his equipment like guns and other tools that they use working on jobs while being a soldier and even exercising to maintain his strength for his job.

    For modifications, I think the soldier would need something for everyday use being in the military and nothing that he would have to take on and off when performing tasks – something more permanent. A finger prosthetic for this missing digit that would be mobile when grasping objects will be perfect for execution of utilizing holding tools and when performing other ADL’s. According to the OTPF, the outcomes addressed would be occupational performance, participation, role competence, and quality of life.   

    As for the wife of the elder man, her ADL’s and lifestyle is a little different compared to a soldier’s lifestyle. I think that she is probably driving her and her husband around many days to keep her eyes on their vehicles that he tries to bet off on people. The ability to grip her steering wheel could be something that she would struggle with. One modification device I would recommend a steering wheel knob. This device attaches to the wheel and allows those with loss of finger strength to use a steering wheel much easier.