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Hand Control Driving | Julie Wilson's GBS/AMSAN Adaptions

The residuals of an acute Inflammatory Neuropathy like GBS, or the ongoing impact of a chronic condition like CIDP, can often mean adapting to a new way of carrying out old tasks. Many people with an Inflammatory Neuropathy find their legs, and/or feet, are particularly impacted, making it hard or even impossible to drive a car. This can strip away a lot of independence, thankfully, there are options such as Hand Controls. Our thanks to Julie Wilson for sharing her experience.


I had GBS (AMSAN variant) in 2012 which left me with polyneuropathy in my legs.

Normal driving was not possible and left me reliant on my husband and public transport. I was not given the following information from any of my health professionals and had to do my own research.

 

Julie demonstrating the hand controls of her car. Her left hand grasps "the mushroom", a knob attached to the steering wheel. Her right hand operates the accelerator/brake beside the wheel.

I went to QEF (Queen Elizabeth's Foundation for Disabled People) Assessment Centre in Carshalton, Surrey. There I was talked through the alternatives which would allow me to drive:


  • They both would allow the car to be used by my husband as a normal automatic and myself.

  • They were either column mounted or floor mounted push/pull controls.

  • There are several variations chosen according to need and preference.

  • There is also a device called a mushroom fitted to the steering wheel (as seen in Julie's photo).


I chose a column mounted push/pull set, and was given a list of providers. The mechanic took my make of car into consideration and came to my house to fit the controls. I have since had it done in the garage before collecting our new vehicle.

 

Once in place I used the services of a specialist driving instructor to take me out for a couple of times whilst I got used to them. He was very helpful and gave me some tips and the confidence to proceed. Like any new skill it takes practice.


I use my right hand to pull on the accelerator or push on the brake. There are small switches mounted at the top , that operate the indicators. My left hand uses the mushroom to steer.


The costs can differ on types and makes, plus the model of your car. They are usually thrown away when the car is sold and each new car (to you) gets a new set. This adds to the cost of upgrading ones car. It can be £600-£1800. I have always had to self fund this cost. 

 

The positives are my independence. They allow my husband to share the car and the driving with me. We always inform the insurance provider of me using these adaptations. They should not increase the cost because of it. 


Interior of Julie's car. The steering wheel is visible with the mushroom mount at the edge of the frame. The push/pull column is long and grey, and sits below where the wiper controls usually sit. On the floor, the standard car pedals are visible.
A closer look at the push/pull column for acceleration and braking. The standard pedals as used by Julie's husband are visible

I find my left arm does tire from being the only one steering the car. There is nowhere to rest my elbow as the mushroom has to be fitted up high on the wheel. 


Further information can be accessed on several Disabled Motoring websites. 


I hope this information is useful . Please go out and research what is the best fit for your situation. 


Good Luck. 


Some useful links:


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