The idea for GPK germinated in the 1980's when Kurt Simonson, a tetraplegic (quadriplegic) due to a C4-C6 spinal cord injury, couldn't find any equipment that allowed completely unassisted upper-body and aerobic rehabilitation, as well as conditioning, to improve and maintain functional independence.

This led to the UPPERTONE and GPK's formation. And even though prototype model of the UPPERTONE was first displayed at the 1990 Los Angeles Abilities Expo, the UPPERTONE is still the only machine on the market that allows people with quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury or other causes to exercise and rehabilitate themselves truly independently. It does not require wrist cuffs. Its unique design and features allow quads to move around and between its three stations, as well as vary resistance, without assistance.

Because of these features, the UPPERTONE is currently being used at rehabs and hospitals, that treat people with spinal cord injury. In addition many colleges, universities, fitness centers and access centers that cater to people with spinal cord injury have bought the UPPERTONE.

Using the knowledge and experience the company developed through manufacturing and marketing the UPPERTONE in 1998 the company began thinking of developing new products for people with quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury or other causes. This led to development and introduction of the QuadTrac, QuadCommander and QuadDesk.

All these products were designed by people with quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury. Again just like the UPPERTONE, they are designed with independence and facilitating daily activities in mind.

And of course more products for people with spinal cord injury are in the pipeline.