Special Needs Kids: Trunk Support Options for Children with Low Trunk Tone

Children with a wide variety of conditions present with low muscle tone (hypotonia) in their trunks, making it difficult for them to sit up properly, stand, and walk.  Some children have virtually no tone at all, and are completely unable to hold their heads up or sit up, while others are more mildly affected, with only minor deficits in sitting or walking.

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http://articles.complexchild.com/jan2011/00263.html

Fitting a Grid Wheelchair Back for a Child with Kyphotic Back

Grid wheelchair back with cover removed and squares removed to accommodate laterals.

Fitting a grid wheelchair back is very difficult and should be done by a trained professional.  Don't try this at home.  Do remember, grid wheelchair seat backs are to accommodate spinal issues (kyphosis) they do are not recommended for correction.

Grid Wheelchair Seat Back: Positioning for Kyphotic Special Needs Kids with Low Trunk Tone

What is a Grid Seat Back for a Wheelchair?

A grid seat back is a seat back for a wheelchair made of a grid of 2"x 2"x 2" squares of Sun memory foam that can be altered to accommodate for trunk deformities and to assist weight distribution on the seat back to prevent skin breakdown.

Grid wheelchair back without cover.  Foam was removed on sides to allow for laterals to be adjusted.

Why a Grid Seat Back for a Wheelchair?

Standing Wheelchair

A standing wheelchair

Yesterday we put a very energetic young man with severe cognitive and physical developmental disabilities in a standing wheelchair.  As soon as the breaking mechanisms were loosed, this young gentleman sprung to his feet – literally!  A big smile spread across his face with the realization that he could stand up himself for the first time!

How does the standing wheelchair work?
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Brittle Bone Syndrome - Definition & Testimonies

Brittle bone disease is more commonly known as osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). It is a rare, usually inherited disorder that causes bones to break easily due to the body’s low production of collagen. There are six different types of brittle bone disease. The last two types, Type V and Type VI have been recently identified, and many articles refer to only four different types. The type of brittle bone disease indicates the degree to which the condition may impact one’s life. While some people are severely affected by brittle bone disease, others are able to live a relatively normal life.

Low levels of collagen characterize Type I brittle bone disease. This type is the most frequently occurring and the least severe. Bones are likely to break easily before the onset of puberty. As well, those with Type I are prone to scoliosis, extreme curvature of the spine, and may need to wear a brace as teenagers to correct the curve.

Does Standing Matter?

www.easystand.com