Dressing Yourself Despite Multiple Sclerosis

By Michael Russell

There probably is a list somewhere of things that frustrate those with Multiple Sclerosis the most. Having to depend on someone else to dress you has got to be at least in the top twenty. Most people take getting dressed without any assistance for granted. Those with MS or other diseases with an unpredictable range of motion limitations know better. They take nothing for granted.

If you’ve just been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis or any other disease that limits your range of motion, here’s good news for you. There are a host of daily living assistance aids available to help you dress yourself. Our main focus in this article is the “Dressing Stick”. The dressing stick is probably one of the most helpful and basic dressing aids because it works effectively for those with limited hand strength in putting on and taking off clothes, socks and even the challenging zipper.

Most manufacturers’ designs for the “Dressing Stick” feature wooden sticks coated with plastic with a c-hook at one end and a push/pull hook at the other end. The length ranges anywhere from 24 to 27 inches and are priced from $4.95 to $19.95. Below is a brief list of the descriptions and prices in the marketplace. Do your own comparative shopping, keeping shipping (some only ship via UPS), specials and other discounts in mind and don’t be fooled by high-end prices. They all appear to be of equal quality, so why pay more than necessary without more quality or at least a lifetime guarantee. Take note that these same businesses also carry many other dressing aids that you could make good use of. There are button aids, pantyhose aids, permanent tie shoelaces and the list goes on. Although Multiple Sclerosis comes with its limitations, you need not be frustrated about dressing yourself at all. It’s up to you to take advantage of these wonderful technologies and be very grateful for them. They were created for people such as yourself.

Are you hesitant about the “Dressing Stick”? Find a lending closet nearby. A lending closet is usually equipped with alternative daily living aids such as walkers, canes, wheelchairs, bath chairs, crutches, etc. for those who either can’t afford them or who need items for a short period of time. Someone in the community who once needed to use them themselves has usually donated these items. If you can’t locate a lending closet nearby, call MSAA (Multiple Sclerosis Association of America) at 1-800-532-7667. Ask about the Dressing Stick and other available living aids. Take advantage of all that is in place for those who suffer with Multiple Sclerosis.

Brucemedical.com carries a Dressing Stick for $7.95, order number KN335.

Dynamic-living.com carries a Dressing Stick with Hook for $7.99, order number DL1202.

Wisent.com carries two types of dressing sticks: A 27inch one piece Dressing Stick with a c-hook and push/pull hook at $4.95, order number 28575 and a 27 ½ inch Collapsible Dressing Stick that breaks down into 2 – 14 ½ inch pieces, which is useful for travelers to pack at $12.95, order number 28628. If you prefer paying with Paypal, you can do so at this site.

Lifehome.com carries a Dressing stick for $19.95.

Otstores.co.uk (For those living in the UK) carries a 24-inch wooden Dressing stick for £3.51 (inc Vat) with a one-year guarantee.

Dailylivingproducts.com carries a 24 inch plastic coated Dressing Stick for $7.50, Item no: F738810001

Easierliving.com carries a 26 inch plastic coated Dressing Stick for $6.00, order no. Sku 8202. Easier Living also has quantity pricing by the case.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Multiple Sclerosis

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