Pediatric power wheelchairs are specially designed for kids, featuring compact mid-wheel drive bases, seating with built-in growth, and options like reclining or power tilt.
Pediatric power wheelchairs can be rented from a supplier at a set rate per day. This makes them an ideal solution for short-term usage.
Seating
Pediatric electric wheelchair seating positions can make a big difference for children who have mobility issues. A child with spinal cord injury, for instance, may struggle to sit up straight in the chair and may develop an unhealthy slumped posture that impacts their breathing and health.
Therapists can help alleviate this discomfort with a positioning aid. They may use a tilting chair, seat riser, or pelvic belt.
By encouraging children to sit upright and engage with others, parents can improve posture and reduce pressure sores. Furthermore, this boosts their sense of independence by helping them sit up straighter in social situations.
Pediatric wheelchairs come in a range of styles, from lightweight to sturdy. They’re available in both manual and powered versions as well as adjustable components to accommodate growth.
Footrests
Pediatric electric wheelchair footrests are essential for user comfort and safety, providing support for the feet and legs to protect against pressure points in the lower back or buttocks. Without them, users may experience discomfort or even injury during use.
On a wheelchair, the footrest typically consists of a footplate mounted on an adjustable hanger and includes padding at the bottom for support of your calves. There are also angle-adjustable footplates that can be adjusted according to user needs.
Kids’ wheelchairs should have their seat height set at 90 degrees, while adults can use either a 60 or 70 degrees angle to keep hangers clear of swiveling casters while still getting a comfortable height for themselves.
Navigating the market for pediatric electric wheelchairs can be overwhelming. To start, consult with your child’s medical professional who can assist in selecting a model that meets their individual requirements.
Headrests
A Pediatric electric wheelchair headrest is a postural support device that helps keep the head and neck in an upright position, protecting users from injuries, fatigue, or complications associated with preexisting conditions. Not only does this provide support to the user but it also prevents injuries, fatigue, and potential complications caused by these conditions.
The headrest is essential for everyday activities and positioning during transport. It facilitates breathing and swallowing, reduces fatigue caused by holding up the head, and protects against neck injuries caused by forward head movement.
This enables users to keep their heads up while eating, speaking, or playing.
Adjustability
When purchasing a pediatric wheelchair, it’s essential to take into account the adjustability of both the seat and back. A child may require assistance sitting in a supine position or being tilted from an inclined position.
Alternatively, they may need to lie flat on their back while being transported. This is especially crucial in cases of spinal cord injury, amputations and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
Pediatric power wheelchairs feature adjustable brace supports and frame sections that can expand as your child grows, providing them with a chair they can grow into. This natural progression should be welcomed rather than feared.
Power wheelchairs should be lightweight and portable for ease of transportation. They should have a low seat-to-floor height so children can propel it with their feet, as well as an extended brake in case the original handle is difficult to reach.