Telescopic 'dressing sticks'

Two telescopic 'dressing sticks', with an S-shaped tip which can be located in a trouser zip, and also used to pull-up trousers and tuck-in shirt tails, held in the mouths or arms of people with limb difference, originally made from a telescopic car aerial and stethoscope tubing, originally designed by Dr. Ian Fletcher in 1959, modifed by Steeper c. 1968

With adjustable lengths, these sticks are used by people to help put on their clothing. Clothing could also be adapted by sewing in elasticated hoops, or to create spaces to use the hook.

Dr Ian Fletcher oversaw artificial or prosthetic limb fitting at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton. Originally dealing with Second World War veterans, road accidents and children affected by polio, Fletcher also met with many children living with thalidomide impairments. We do not know what prompted him to design these dressing sticks, but it is likely that is was due to suggestions from those visiting the centre. Many people may have also developed their own home-made versions to use.

A range of dressing stick designs are available to assistn with buttons, zips, socks and shoes.