Common Adaptive Tools for Bed Mobility & Positioning in FOP

People living with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) often experience limited mobility of the spine, hips, shoulders, and trunk, which can make moving in bed, adjusting body position, and transferring to standing or sitting positions difficult or unsafe. The tools highlighted in this Bed Mobility & Positioning category focus on support, comfort, independence, safety, and ease of use for individuals with FOP.

Adjustable & Specialty Beds

Specialty beds and adjustable frames allow for position changes without extensive bending or manual lifting, which may be important for people with fused joints or limited strength/endurance. Examples of adjustable and specialty beds found in the Ability Toolbox Guidebook:

• Hi-low adjustable beds let the bed height be raised or lowered for easier getting in and out of bed and improve comfort by adjusting head and foot angles.

• Standing beds transition users from lying to standing without bending at the waist — useful for those who cannot sit up traditionally.

• Fully adjustable beds with Trendelenburg features can support many positioning needs and make transfers easier for caregivers.

Positioning Tools & Pillows

Positioning aids provide comfort, alignment, and support for specific body parts to help reduce pain, prevent pressure issues, and make staying in bed more sustainable. Examples of positioning tools and pillows found in the Ability Toolbox Guidebook:

• Contour and support pillows help position the torso, neck, or limbs comfortably without requiring frequent repositioning.

• U-shaped and total-body pillows support side-lying, semi-seated, or supine positions when arms or legs cannot rest flat on the mattress.

Self-Mobility Aids

Tools that support active bed mobility help individuals adjust their position independently. Examples of self-mobility aids found in the Ability Toolbox Guidebook:

• Bed ladder assists offer handholds that make it easier to pull the body up in bed or prepare for standing.
• Bed canes and transfer poles provide stability during transfers
• Dressing sticks and extended tools can also be used to reposition blankets or clothing while minimizing strain on joints.