People with disabilities are at risk of many secondary conditions that are directly related to immobility. Standing using a stationary device, or through use of standing features on a manual or power wheelchair, is an essential component in the medical and rehabilitative care of some individuals.
As per RESNA (Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America) wheelchair standing devices are often medically necessary, as they enable certain individuals to:
1.Improve functional reach and access to enable participation in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) (e.g., grooming /hygiene, cooking, reaching medication, toileting)
2.Improve mobility and lower limb function in those with preserved muscle strength in lower limbs
3.Improve the range of motion and reduce the risk of contractures
4.Promote vital organ capacity including pulmonary, bowel and bladder function
5.Promote bone health
6.Improve circulation
7.Reduce abnormal muscle tone and spasticity
8.Reduce the occurrence of pressure ulcers
9.Reduce the occurrence of skeletal deformities
10.Provide numerous psychosocial and quality of life benefits
The complete paper of the RESNA position on the Application of Wheelchair Standing Devices can be downloaded from here.
Working Principle
A standing feature integrated into a wheelchair base allows the user to obtain a standing position without the need of transfer from the wheelchair.
A mechanical or electromechanical system manipulated via levers or the wheelchair’s controllers moves the seat from horizontal into a vertical position while maintain vertical position of the leg rests and backrest, thus extending the hip and knee joints.
A full vertical standing position can be achieved directly from the sitting position. Most wheelchair standers allow for full or partial extension of hip and knee joints, and full upright or partially tilted positions.
