Grabber/Reacher
A grabber or reacher helps you pick up light objects from the floor without bending or squatting. It supports daily tasks during recovery when your surgeon or PT limits those movements.
Prepared by Recovery ReadyRecovery Ready— physical therapists with 30+ years of experience helping patients prepare for and optimally recover from surgery.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-12
Important considerations
- Do not use to pull on furniture, doors, or people for balance.
- Avoid bending or twisting beyond your surgical movement limits even with a reacher.
- Stop if you feel strain at your incision or sudden dizziness when reaching.
- Do not pick up hot, sharp, or wet-breakable items unless your OT approves.
How to use
- Hold the handle with your wrist straight and squeeze the trigger to open the jaws.
- Position the jaws around the object squarely before lifting slowly.
- Keep your feet planted and avoid leaning far forward while reaching.
- Lift light items only; avoid heavy pots, full bags, or unstable loads.
- Store the reacher hanging or in an easy-to-grab spot near chair or bed.
- Practice picking up a phone or remote first before trickier shapes.
Tips & tricks
- Use while seated when possible for extra stability.
- Keep frequently dropped items on tables rather than the floor when you can.
- Check jaw rubber tips periodically and replace if worn.
- Pair with hip or knee precautions taught by your therapist.
Good to know
- Reachers are standard after hip replacement when bending is temporarily limited.
- They reduce repeated deep flexion during everyday chores.
- Your therapist may suggest one as part of a home safety equipment list.
Frequently asked questions
How much weight can a reacher hold?▾
Most are for light objects like clothing, remotes, and utensils. Check your product limit and stay well below it.
Can I use a reacher after knee surgery?▾
Often yes to limit squatting early on, but only within your surgeon's bending and kneeling rules.
How much weight can a reacher hold?
Most are for light objects like clothing, remotes, and utensils. Check your product limit and stay well below it.
Can I use a reacher after knee surgery?
Often yes to limit squatting early on, but only within your surgeon's bending and kneeling rules.