Seating System Usage for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological condition characterized by muscle tone and motor function disorders, and can affect muscle tone excess or deficiency, balance, posture, muscle weakness, and muscle control in children. Therefore, seating systems (seating devices) are important assistive devices that improve the quality of life for children with CP.
Importance of Seating Systems
Seating systems help children achieve a safe and correct sitting position by supporting trunk and pelvis stability. Correct posture not only increases comfort but also supports the child’s developmental and functional needs.
Properly provided seating support:
- Helps prevent secondary orthopedic problems
- Supports more effective functioning of respiratory and digestive systems
- Contributes to increased participation in daily life activities
Benefits Provided
Benefits provided by seating systems:
Physical Benefits
- Helps reduce the risk of spinal deformities (scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis)
- Supports decreasing the risk of hip dislocation
- Contributes to the development of sensory-motor development and functional skills
- Supports maintaining postural control during prolonged sitting
Social and Functional Benefits
- Facilitates adaptation to social interaction and educational environments
- Provides safer and more ergonomic use for families and caregivers
- Supports independence in daily life activities
- Contributes to the child’s more active interaction with their environment
Approach According to Individual Needs
Each child with cerebral palsy has different needs. Therefore, seating systems should be planned taking into account the child’s individual requirements.
They are designed individually according to the child’s postural needs.
- Balance and stability are supported with adjustments appropriate to motor skill level.
- Adapts to play, feeding, and desk activities in daily life.
- Supports correct sitting position by encouraging pelvis and trunk alignment.
- Adopts a design approach that prioritizes comfort to support long-term use.
- Supports balanced distribution of body weight during sitting.
- Has an adjustable structure that can adapt to the child’s growth.
- Contains stable and supportive details that prioritize safety.
Importance of Expert Evaluation
The selection and usage of seating devices must be evaluated by an expert team for the child’s safety and health.
Expert Team Members
- Physiotherapist: Motor function and posture evaluation
- Occupational Therapist: Functional skills and daily life activities
- Orthopedist: Musculoskeletal system evaluation
- Pediatric Neurologist: Neurological condition monitoring
Risks of Incorrect Usage
- Failure to provide expected benefits
- Risk of leading to complications
- Endangering the child’s safety
Who is it Suitable For?
Seating systems particularly:
- Children with cerebral palsy who cannot sit unsupported or can sit for short periods
- Children struggling with trunk control and postural stability
- Children at risk for secondary musculoskeletal problems
- Children wanting to increase their independence in daily life
- Children needing support during prolonged sitting
provide appropriate support solutions for.
Types of Seating Systems
Basic Features
- Adjustable back support and side supports
- Systems providing pelvis and trunk stabilization
- Head and neck support features
- Foot and leg positioning systems
Special Designs
- Production according to individual measurements
- Adjustable systems suitable for child’s growth
- Customized models for different activities
Seating System Consultation at Trea Kids
As Trea Kids, we provide comprehensive consultation services on seating system selection for children with cerebral palsy:
Our Services
- Individual evaluation and needs analysis
- Suitable model recommendation and procurement support
- Usage training and care instructions
- Regular follow-up and necessary adjustments
- Family education and home usage guidance
Conclusion
Individually designed and expert-guided seating systems in children with cerebral palsy:
- Provides postural support
- Supports motor development
- Protects bone development
- Increases functional independence
- Improves quality of life
Families must act with expert guidance in device selection and usage. At Trea Kids, together with our expert team, we find the most suitable seating system solution for your child’s needs.
