The Kaye Suspension Harnesses were designed and made to comfortably hold clients when they are suspended in the Kaye Suspension Walkers (models SW1 and SW7) and all Kaye Posture Control Walkers with Suspension Accessories (models SC1, SC2, SC3 and SC4). Each harness is made of material that has a high compression element so that the body vest fits snugly around the client and fastens with buckles. These harnesses have two distinct styles, depending on the size and weight of the client.
The Small and Medium Slim models have three components: a body vest, four compression straps, and four strap pads. These harnesses fit between the legs like pants and buckle up each side. Because of the construction of these harnesses, they are most comfortable for children under 60 lb.
The Medium and Large models have four components: a body vest, four compression straps, four strap pads, and two thigh cuffs. They depend on the compression of the vest and the thigh straps to hold the vest in place. These vests buckle up the front and back. Because they do not have any component between the legs, they are comfortable for older, heavier clients, and can hold up to 200 lb.
We recommend that the client dons the vest in supine or standing position, as the key to a well fitted harness depends on the hips being in extension and the vest fitted low around the pelvis. In addition, the lower buckles, around the pelvis, must be pulled tight to keep the vest in place when the client is suspended. Clothing under the vest should not be bulky and cause uncomfortable wrinkles nor slippery material that will cause the vest to slide up as the client walks.
The four compression straps can be added to aid alignment and have been found useful in many ways to align the trunk, head and hips. The strap pads are added once the client is suspended, to protect the head from the hardware on the suspension system.
