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Growing Up in a Wheelchair. Will Dynamic Seating Grow too?

Growing Up in a Wheelchair. Will Dynamic Seating Grow too?

Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ABDA, ATP/SMS and Greg Peek, President, Seating Dynamics

Updated 3/18/24

seating dynamics blog colton outside with brother DRBiI mainly work in pediatrics and so growth is always a concern. When recommending equipment, whether it be a bath seat or a wheelchair frame, I need to know how much growth is available in order to ensure the item will continue to meet a child’s needs for as long as possible. After all, this complex rehab equipment is expensive, and funding is often a challenge.

When I recommend a wheelchair frame, I am also recommending other components including the seating system, secondary supports (i.e., a pelvic positioning belt), a tray … and often Dynamic Seating. So, will the Dynamic Seating components continue to meet the child’s needs as they grow?

Dynamic Rocker Back interface (DRBi)

Seat Depth

The DRBi is mounted to the base of the back canes. As more seat depth is required, the back canes are frequently moved rearward on the frame. The DRBi will move posteriorly with the back canes, increasing then seat depth to accommodate growth. This requires a frame with an adjustable seat depth.

Back Height

If the back of the seating system needs to be raised to increase overall back height, the DRBi will not limit this adjustment. This requires back canes with adjustable height.  If the child grows and, as a result, needs taller back canes and/or a new back, these can be added to the frame and the existing DRBi. Ordering an adjustable height back may prevent this issue. Finally, if the child outgrows the frame completely, the DRBi can be moved to the new wheelchair frame, if the same model is used. If a different model is ordered, the DRBi may still be compatible (refer to our compatibility matrix here) or you can contact us at sales@seatingdynamics.com for further information.

Seat Width

If the wheelchair is grown in width, this will not impact the DRBi.

Keep in mind, the elastomers in the DRBi typically need to be changed every 6-12 months to ensure that this Dynamic Back is working optimally. The elastomers may need to be replaced sooner based on the degree of client force and/or movement.

Dynamic Footrests

Leg Length

Kids grow more in height than width. As the leg length increases, the Seating Dynamics Dynamic Footrests can be lengthened up to 2.5”. If the footplates are too close to the floor after lengthening, the seat to floor height may need to be increased or the angle of the Dynamic Footrests at the knee may need to be increased (if this does not create a stretch to the hamstrings). A longer lower extension can be ordered, as needed, if the child exceeds the available growth.

Finally, if a new wheelchair is ordered, the Dynamic Footrests may be transferred to the new frame. If the same model is ordered, no additional parts should be required. If a different model frame is recommended, please refer to our compatibility matrix here and email us at sales@seatingdynamics.com to determine if reconfiguration is required.  If a new cushion is recommended, the cushion height will impact the required length of the Dynamic Footrest, as well.

Seat Width

If the wheelchair is grown in width, this will not impact the Dynamic Footrests.

Dynamic Head Support Hardware

This hardware attaches to the back of the seating system. As the child grows and the back height increases, the Dynamic Head Support Hardware will move with the back or can be attached to a new back at the necessary height. Our standard and quick release mounting hardware work with a variety of back styles.

By planning for growth, our Dynamic Seating components can meet the needs of a growing child today and well into the future!

Please see our related Blog, Dynamic Seating: a cost benefit analysis https://www.seatingdynamics.com/2019/05/28/dynamic-seating-a-cost-benefit-analysis/.

 

 

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