Powerful Physical Therapy

Powerful Physical Therapy

Three Common Types Of Durable Medical Equipment For Kids With Cerebral Palsy

by Clifford Ramos

When your child is diagnosed with a disability like cerebral palsy, it can be a hard thing for parents to hear. While it can be a life-changing diagnosis for the entire family, parents need to know there are many different devices and types of equipment that can help ensure a high quality of life for their child. Here are three common types of durable medical equipment that are often prescribed for kids with cerebral palsy.

Standing Frames

Sometimes referred to as standers or standing tables, this type of durable medical equipment enables a child with cerebral palsy who cannot stand on their own to be in an upright position. Standing tables come with straps, a headrest, and footrests which all help to give the child the support needed. Standing frames offer the following advantages for children with cerebral palsy:

  • Improved circulation
  • Allows child to bear weight which strengthens the bones
  • Stimulates gastric motility
  • Improves respiratory function

Standing frames called sit-to-stands are types of standers that enable a child to go from a sitting position into a standing position. Some standing frames also come with wheels attached so that the child can be moved around the home.

Wheelchairs

For children who have very limited mobility, a wheelchair is a necessary piece of durable medical equipment. For toddlers and very small children, pediatric wheelchairs are available. Some of these smaller chairs look more like glorified strollers. Because they are so small, they can be easily transported and even folded up to stow away in the trunk of a vehicle.

Because children are always growing, wheelchairs can be adjusted as your child gains weight and gets taller. Eventually though, your child will outgrow their chair and will need the next size up. Some children with cerebral palsy are eventually able to operate a power wheelchair. 

Bath Chairs 

For many parents, giving their child a bath is not only fun and rewarding, but it can also be a bonding experience. For children with cerebral palsy who cannot sit on their own in the tub, or who need added head and neck support, a bath chair can make the bathing process much easier. As with most types of durable medical equipment designed for children, bath chairs can be adjusted as the child grows.

If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you need a standing frame, wheelchair, or bath chair, simply contact your local durable medical equipment provider. 

For more information, contact a service such as Hospital Pharmacy West.


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About Me

Powerful Physical Therapy

I was badly injured a year ago, and it took a long time to get back to my normal level of ability. One of the things that helped more than anything was the time that I spent in physical therapy. I didn’t always love going to physical therapy – in fact, sometimes, I really didn’t enjoy it at all. But ultimately, the therapists and other patients I worked with helped inspire me to get better, and the exercises facilitated my healing process. I started this blog to talk about all of the things I learned about physical therapy and healing during my recovery time. I hope my blog reaches other accident victims. I want to offer encouragement, hope, and information for people who are in the same boat that I was in.