FAQs on Hand Therapy & Foot Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions by Patients and Caregivers

What is a “Hand Mentor™”?
The Hand Mentor™ is the first Active Repetitive Motion™ device designed for in-home and clinical use.  The Hand Mentor™ actively involves the patient in their hand therapy rehabilitation by encouraging self-powered motion of the wrist and fingers, and assisting movement when necessary.

What is a “Foot Mentor™”?
Much like The Hand Mentor™ the The Foot Mentor™ is a device designed to provide foot therapy by repetitively training foot and ankle control.

Why are they called the “Mentor”?
These devices provide instructions and assistance.  They encourage and challenge the patient to achieve, surpass and increase their goals.  They record and report progress during hand therapy and foot therapy.   The Mentor™ products will not do the work for you, but they will work with you to achieve your goals. 

How do they work?
The Mentor™ devices immerse the patient in a game-like environment. By interacting with the hand therapy and foot therapy games, the patient is encouraged to move their hand or foot to play the game. If the patient is unsuccessful in completing a specific task, assistance is given so that the full range of motion is realized.

Who can benefit from using the Mentor™ devices?
Stroke and other brain-injured patients of varying degrees of ability can benefit from the devices.  A patient with high tone or spasticity can increase their passive range of motion using our spasticity reduction program.  Patients with some movement capabilities can improve active range of motion with the motor control and active recruitment programs. 

How long will I be using the Mentor™?
Much like piano lessons, the more you practice the more progress you will see.  
A typical weekly regimen at home would consist of 2-3 hours per day, 4-5 days per week.  (Additional practice is not discouraged). In-clinic use is usually limited to 15 or 30 minutes due to the rigorous schedule of therapy programs.

Due to varying severity of strokes and ability levels of stroke survivors, patients may use the Mentor™ devices for a few months to several years and continue to see progress.

How can I see a demonstration of the devices?
There may be a Mentor™ device in a therapy clinic near you. Contact our Sales Department to find out.

Can I buy or rent one today?
The Mentor™ is regulated by the FDA as “prescription only.”  You will need an evaluation from your doctor or therapist to determine if you would be a good candidate for this type of hand therapy or foot therapy.

Is it covered by insurance?
In-clinic use is generally covered by existing insurance codes. Use at home may or may not be covered by your insurer. Home-use is billed on a case by case basis.

For more information about Kinetic Muscles’ hand therapy and foot therapy products, how we can help, frequently asked questions and more, contact us.