Product solutions to help specific disabilities

Hi everyone, in this blog I've decided to focus on three of the most common conditions our clients have that our products help with. These conditions are spinal cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis (MS) and cerebral palsy (CP). I've highlighted a selection of wheelchairs and add-on equipment that we recommend regularly, however as always, it's best to book an assessment with our experts to get the right products for you. Contact our friendly team on 01993 880200 or by clicking here.

So, here's a few ideas to get you started... 

Spinal cord injury

Having a SCI can mean you have a lack of sensation below your injury and need to manage pressure, especially when sitting for extended periods. We have a vast range of specialist cushions that can help, such as the Ottobock Cloud and more complex ROHO Air pocket models. These can be specified to provide the right firmness and stability for everyone. 

At our seating clinic we have pressure mapping technology so if needed, bespoke cushions and carved seating can be manufactured from the data we collect. By using this service, we deliver accurate, tailor-made comfort, alignment and posture for all wheelchair users. 

Postural instability in a manual or electric wheelchair can also cause discomfort and lead to other musculoskeletal issues over time. That's why, if appropriate, we recommend NXT backrests and the ILSA wings on a Wolturnus wheelchair. The Wolturnus W5 for example, is ideal for active users as it’s seating supports can be customised, and the frame is lightweight for easy lifting. If clients are looking for powered mobility, then these types of laterals and backrests can also be incorporated into many of our powerchairs.

Multiple sclerosis

We know this condition can be unpredictable however we find fatigue, lateral instability and numbness in extremities are common. 

If we look at fatigue first, then powered wheelchairs are a popular choice to keep mobile whilst conserving energy. The Permobil M3 is a proven option and the great benefit of this powerchair is its adaptability to meet changing needs. Features such as the controls and seating setup can be interchanged without the need to buy a new powerchair. We can add or swap lateral supports so users can remain seated symmetrically, with healthy pressure management, as disabilities progress over time. 

Like assisting with SCI, our NXT backrests help improve lateral stability when you have MS. They ensure body positioning is healthy whilst allowing frictionless movement during activities. 

The other common symptom with MS is numbness in hands and feet. If you are looking for a wheelchair and have this issue, then it's crucial to go for a design that's easy to propel. When sensation is limited, it can be hard to grip wheel rims so a lightweight, efficient wheelchair such as the Motion Composites Helio C2 can be ideal.

Cerebral palsy

The final disability we're going to explore is cerebral palsy. Different to MS which tends to affect adults around 40+, CP can be common at an early age. Extensor spasticity is a typical issue with CP which involves the muscles responsible for straightening limbs becoming abnormally tight, leading to difficulty in bending. By choosing wheelchairs with tilt-in-space functionality, such as those we supply from Ki Mobility, parents can recline their child for greater comfort without the need to change the relative position of legs, body and head.

When supporting children with disabilities, we always advocate early intervention. It is essential a young person is 'seated well' as quickly as possible, as without good posture their bodies may develop and grow asymmetrically, leading to other issues in the future. We also come across children who have been carried regularly on their parent’s hip, leading to curved body shapes and irregular development. Kimba buggies manufactured by Ottobock are prime examples of effective seating solutions that help children develop in the right way, from as young as 12 months.

As children grow up, being able to enjoy independence is fun and helps build confidence. Products such as our TriRide Kidz Handbike power add-on, are ideal for young wheelchair users as it provides the ability to drive and explore further. Equally the future-proofed Decon E-Drive gives that sense of freedom and can be used into adulthood. 

Well, that's it for now. I do hope you've enjoyed reading my brief suggestions but as I said at the beginning, it's always best to talk to us so we can enable you the most, through exactly the right products.

If you would like to book a free assessment or for further information, please contact our friendly advisors on 01993 880200 or email: info@recare.co.uk 

Thanks again and see you soon!
Ashleigh