Knork Dining Utensil for People with Disability
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2008/06/13 - Updated: 2024/11/27
Publication Type: Product Release, Update
Category Topic: Assistive Home Products - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main
Synopsis: The Knork is a fork and knife combination utensil that is revolutionizing the dining experience for the disabled. The Knork concept was hatched by Mike Miller, whose difficulty in cutting pizza with a fork as a student inspired his quest to create a fork that cuts like a knife.
Introduction
The Knork is a fork and knife combination utensil that is revolutionizing the dining experience! It allows food to be cut easily and lifted to the mouth using only one hand, instead of the two-handed operation needed for a regular knife and fork. While very convenient in everyday dining situations, the Knork can be especially helpful as a hand mobility product.
Main Content
The Knork concept was hatched by Mike Miller, whose difficulty in cutting pizza with a fork as a student inspired his quest to create a fork that cuts like a knife.
The Patented Knork Design
One major difference between the Knork and a standard fork is the shape of the outer tines. They are beveled and curved, forming a cutting edge that is not serrated or sharp to the touch. In fact, the Knork is as safe to the mouth as a regular fork. The rounded edges allow the head to be rocked back and forth. The motion is very much like that of a rocking chair.
Another key design element is the smooth, enlarged platform underneath the tines. Using a regular fork to cut tougher foods can leave painful "indentations" in the finger, caused by pressing down on the thin handle or the tines themselves. It is also very difficult or impossible to cut foods such as meats or chewy breads. The Knork's finger platform provides a smooth surface to press down on and reduces the effort needed to rock the tines back and forth. The rocking motion, combined with the curved head, gives the Knork its amazing cutting ability. It is able to cut tougher foods such as vegetables, pizza, meats - even steaks.
An enlarged, rounded end gives the Knork superior leverage, balance and stability. It can be held comfortably in either the right or left palm.
The Knork can be implemented as an eating aid for people with limited hand mobility, from temporary injuries to permanent conditions such as severe arthritis and hemi-paralysis. It is used in rehabilitation centers and hospitals around the country. People who would otherwise require that their food be cut for them - or else limit their meal choices - can gain increased independence and freedom by using the Knork.
This product may be helpful to those with the following conditions:
- Limited or no motor ability in one hand
- Hemi-paresis (one-sided paralysis) due to stroke or other causes
- Paralysis of the arm, hand, wrist and/or fingers
- Amputations
- Arthritis/Osteoarthritis
Temporary arm/wrist/hand/finger injuries such as:
- Broken bones
- Sprains and strains
- Dislocations
Repetitive motion injuries such as:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Trigger Finger/Thumb
Disclaimer
Disabled World was recently sent a Knork for review.
"We found the Knork to be well made and an excellent product that by far out performs similar eating utensils. The whole presentation of the received package was 5 stars. Detailed instructions in a well laid out glossy brochure with testimonials of knork users around the world were included. and the knork itself comes in a handy airtight clear plastic tube, perfect for taking out to restaurants and picnics etc. Overall the Knork is a fantastic disability aid that once tried would prove indispensable for persons with disabilities, the aged, and those with limited strength in their arms and/or hands."
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.