The Need to Stand
By Rosen, Lauren; Rehab Management,Publication Date: January 2010
Article provides an overview of standing systems for individuals with disabilities who cannot stand independently. Benefits of standing are outlined including improvement of muscle contractures and spasticity, decreased risk of the development of hip abnormalities in growing children, increased bone mineral density, decreased risk of pressure sore development, psychosocial benefits, and improved circulatory, gastrointestinal, bowel and urinary control, and respiratory functions. Three styles of independent standing systems are available: prone, supine, and sit-to-stand. Within these types, there are dynamic, static, and mobile standers as well as standing systems integrated into wheelchairs. Supine standers are thought to be the least stressful, and the easiest to use for children. Prone standers are used only for alert children with good head control. Sit-to-stand systems and prone standers are commonly used for adults. In static standers, the most commonly used type, the person and stander do not move, while dynamic standers encourage movement, including the weighing and unweighing of legs and flexing of joints. Mobile standers let the person move around in the environment; pediatric models of this type can be used in classrooms or at home. Wheelchairs with integrated standers are manufactured in both manual and power styles and offer the benefit of standing without having to transfer out of the chair. Daily standing for 45 minutes to 2 hours is generally recommended for patients. Also discussed is funding for standing equipment through government and private payer sources.
Published by: Ascend Media LLC (Website:http://www.ascendmedia.com)
Link to text: http://www.rehabpub.com/issues/articles/2010-01_03.asp
