Recovering from a broken arm can make everyday tasks like getting dressed feel daunting. Whether you're managing a sling, cast, or limited mobility, the right clothing can simplify your daily routine and help you feel more confident.
That’s where adaptive clothing shines—offering solutions for someone living with a broken arm that combine functionality, style, and comfort.
What Is Adaptive Clothing?
Adaptive clothing is specially designed to address the challenges faced by people with limited mobility, injuries, or disabilities. Unlike traditional garments, these clothes feature thoughtful modifications to make dressing easier and more comfortable.
For someone recovering from a broken arm, adaptive clothing can include features such as:
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Easy-open closures like Velcro or magnets
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Adjustable fits and wide armholes
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Side-access designs to minimize arm movement
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Stretchy fabrics for comfort
Why Adaptive Clothing Is Essential for a Broken Arm
When your mobility is limited, even basic tasks like putting on a shirt or buttoning pants can feel overwhelming. Adaptive clothing provides practical solutions that reduce frustration and discomfort. Here are some of its key benefits:
1. Ease of Use
Features like magnetic closures and side zippers make it possible to dress with one hand, minimizing strain on your injured arm.
2. Pain Reduction
Adaptive clothing eliminates the need for painful movements like raising your arm or pulling fabric over a cast.
3. Increased Independence
These designs allow you to dress and undress on your own, helping you maintain a sense of control during recovery.
4. Stylish and Functional
Modern adaptive clothing blends practicality with style, so you can recover in comfort without sacrificing your personal aesthetic.
Adaptive Clothing Options for a Broken Arm
Let’s explore the specific adaptive clothing features that make dressing easier while keeping you comfortable and confident:
1. Snap Buttons on Pants and Tops
Snap buttons run along the seam of pants or tops, allowing the garment to open wider than traditional designs.
Why They’re Helpful
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For Tops: Snap buttons eliminate the need to raise your arm to pull a shirt over your head. Simply step into the garment or slide it over your non-injured arm first, then fasten the snaps along the side.
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For Pants: Snap buttons make it easier to slip into pants without bending or straining. They are also helpful if you're dealing with swelling or a cast on your lower arm, as they provide flexibility and an adjustable fit.
2. Velcro Closures
Velcro closures are one of the most versatile and user-friendly features in adaptive clothing. Found on shirts, jackets, pants, and even bras. Velcro offers a quick and secure way to fasten garments without the need for fine motor skills.
Why They’re Helpful
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Velcro can be opened and closed with one hand, making it especially useful for individuals recovering from a broken arm.
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The ability to tighten or loosen Velcro closures ensures a snug but comfortable fit around casts, slings, or swelling. This adjustability is particularly helpful in bras, where a secure and comfortable fit is essential.
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High-quality Velcro provides a reliable hold that stays in place throughout the day.
3. Magnetic Closures
Magnetic closures are a modern and sleek alternative to traditional buttons or zippers, often featured on adaptive shirts, cardigans, jackets or pants. Magnets are sewn into the fabric to create simple, one-handed closures that snap together effortlessly.
Why They’re Helpful
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Ideal for individuals with limited dexterity or strength.
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Magnets close quickly, saving time and reducing frustration.
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Discreet and stylish—many designs look like traditional buttons.
Where Can I Buy Adaptive Clothing For a Broken Arm?
There are a variety of places to find stylish and functional options that cater to your specific needs. Here are some great options:
Springrose
The Springrose Easy-On Mobility bra is a game-changer for women recovering from a broken arm or dealing with limited mobility.
Designed with functionality and style in mind, this bra features easy-to-use Velcro closures that allow you to fasten and adjust it with one hand.
Its innovative design eliminates the need to reach behind your back or struggle with traditional clasps, making it an ideal choice for those with limited arm movement.
Joe & Bella
An innovative brand with a focus on older adults, selling magnetic button down and discreet zippered pants.
No Limbits
A popular brand offering a wide range of adaptive clothing for men and women, including pants, tops, and jackets.
Buck & Buck
Specializing in adaptive clothing for seniors and individuals with disabilities, their collection includes Velcro closures, side zippers, and open-back designs.
