The Lisclare Team’s Training with Håkan Skenhede: Advancing Manual Handling Techniques
The Lisclare team recently had the privilege of receiving specialist training from world-renowned Senior Manual Handling Consultant Håkan Skenhede. The training focused on understanding and applying the Natural Pattern and Compensatory Pattern of Movement in all manual handling scenarios. These techniques are essential for improving patient mobility while reducing strain and injury risk for caregivers.
Understanding Natural and Compensatory Patterns of Movement
One of the key aspects of the training was the differentiation between two movement patterns:
- Natural Pattern: This is the way a strong and healthy person moves, involving efficient and energy-saving motions that align with the body’s natural mechanics.
- Compensatory Pattern: This is the way a weaker or functionally impaired individual moves, often adapting their motion due to limitations in strength or mobility.
By understanding these patterns, caregivers can better support individuals in maintaining independence while ensuring safe and effective transfers.
Key Training Insights
During the training, Håkan Skenhede covered several essential areas of patient handling, including:
- Working with Minimum Force (Durewall Method)
The Durewall method, initially developed as a self-defence system, emphasises working with minimal force to prevent injury. This approach is crucial in manual handling as it allows caregivers to assist patients without unnecessary strain, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
- Safe Patient Handling in Bed
Techniques for moving patients in bed, such as turning, repositioning, and seated transfers, were demonstrated. Participants learned how to minimise friction, maintain patient comfort, and use assistive tools like sliding sheets to reduce physical exertion.
- Supporting Active and Safe Walking
A significant part of the training was dedicated to assisting individuals with walking safely. Håkan introduced practical techniques such as using functional weight-bearing tests to assess a patient’s ability to stand and move. Proper footwear, environmental safety, and assistive devices were also discussed to enhance mobility support.
- Standing and Sitting Transfers
The training reinforced the importance of correct posture and movement strategies when helping individuals sit, stand, or transition between surfaces. Exercises like the ‘nose over toes’ technique were practised to encourage natural standing motions while preventing falls and strain.
- The Role of Assistive Equipment
Håkan highlighted various assistive devices, such as hoists, sliding sheets, and transfer belts, which can significantly ease the handling process. The correct use of these tools was demonstrated, ensuring caregivers understood how to apply them safely and effectively.
Impact of the Training
By implementing the principles and techniques taught by Håkan Skenhede, the Lisclare team is now better equipped to:
- Provide safer, more effective patient handling.
- Reduce the risk of caregiver burnout and injury.
- Enhance patient comfort and mobility, fostering greater independence.
This training has reinforced Lisclare’s commitment to delivering excellence in patient care and manual handling solutions. With these newly acquired skills, our team continues to support caregivers and patients with innovative, evidence-based techniques for safer mobility and handling practices.
