An odd-looking piece of equipment at the OCH Wellness Connection is getting a lot of attention. At first glance, it looks intimidating, but those who’ve received therapy on the Quadriciser say it’s a miracle-worker.
Funded in part by the OCH Auxiliary, the motorized total body therapy system uses a motor and cables to gently move the entire body of those who have limited or no mobility. It is fully adjustable to each individual’s specific limitations and comfort level and has been proven to provide a better quality of life for those with fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, the effects of a stroke, and many other types of illnesses causing physical limitations.
“The auxiliary hosts several fund raisers throughout the year, and the proceeds are used to assist with projects and purchase equipment for the hospital. We were happy to allocate some of our funds to purchase the Quadriciser because it will help provide a better quality of life for people in our community,” said OCH Director of Volunteer Services Elaine Baker.
Three years ago, a stroke left Sammy “Bub” Slaughter partially paralyzed on the left side of his body, causing him to drag his foot instead of picking it up to walk. But after five treatments on the Quadriciser, Slaughter is able to stand up by himself and lift his foot when he steps.
“It’s helped me a lot. After I used it a few times, I saw the results. I was able to walk out of here (the Wellness Connection), and I wasn’t hurting as bad as I normally do,” said Mr. Slaughter, who also receives personal training from OCH Wellness Connection Director Eddie Myles to improve mobility and increase muscle strength.
“I don’t want to overhype something, but we love it,” said Nell Slaughter, Bub Slaughter’s wife. “We have tried one of everything that’s out there to help him. I’m pretty cautious to say that something helps, but we really like this. He can now stand up by himself, and he almost never does that—only when Eddie makes him do it. He’s the drill sergeant!” she added with a laugh.
Myles has seen several people benefit from using the Quadriciser, including himself!
“I was the guinea pig, and it helped alleviate the low back pain I was experiencing. I’m impressed by the results our clients are experiencing after receiving treatments on the Quadriciser,” said Myles. “For Mr. Slaughter, the machine keeps his muscles stretched out, which is a problem with a stroke—retraction. Since his treatments, his hand has loosened up, where it used to be claw-like,” Myles added.
For patients who are unable to walk, the Quadriciser can simulate reciprocal movements of walking while lying in the supine position. This cross-crawl pattern stimulates the brain and improves muscle function. As the user progresses, a more active therapy session may be obtained through simple adjustments of tension, speed and resistance, thus providing even further results.
“People don’t want to have to depend on someone else to help them with their basic needs. The Quadriciser can improve the quality of life for individuals who have lost so much of their independence, and that’s the best part about the machine,” said Myles.
“If you think you or someone you know might benefit from treatment with the Quadriciser, give me a call to talk it through,” Myles continued. “This is a safe, non-invasive treatment that can help so many people. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.”
Therapy on the Quadriciser is available by appointment for 30 minutes or one hour sessions at a nominal fee. For more information about it or services and classes at the OCH Wellness Connection, visit och.org or call 662-323-WELL (9355).
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