Therapy Equipment
Standing Frames
At InterGen Health our therapists can assist in the assessment, prescription and sourcing of paediatric standing frames. Our experienced therapists are experts in all types of standing frames and will work with the client and family to find the right suit.
The Different types of standing frames
-
Prone standing frames
Prone standing frames are standing frames which the user will have support on the front of their body. The user will be leaning forward when in use.
Pros:
-Good for upper body engagement
-Builds head and trunk control
- Users can actively transfer onto the frameCons:
- Can be more tiring to use- due to increased demand on the body
- Not suitable for all users- those with reduced head and upper body control -
Supine Standing frames
Supine standing frames are standing frames which the user will have support on the back of their body. The user will be leaning backward when in use.
Pros:
- Great for user with reduced head and neck control
- A great option for users who tire easy
- Provides an option for standing when not actively able to transfer
- Good option for users with lower limb contracturesCons:
- Need to be lifted or hoisted onto the standing frame
- When tilted back it’s less engaging compared to prone or upright stander -
Upright standers
Upright standers are standing frames which are designed to be completely straight when in use.
Pros:
- Largest amount of weight bearing compared to other standers
- Users can actively transfer onto the frame
- Helps develop head and trunk controlCons:
- Can be tiring if using for long periods of time
- Reduced ability for users with tight muscles in their legs to use
Benefits of using a standing frame
-
improved bone density and hip development
Users of standing frames need assistance to stand, therefore less body weight is going through their bodies compared to people are able to walk. Using a standing frame helps to improve the bone density of the weight bearing bones in your lower body and helps in developing the shape of the hip bones.
-
Improve digestive, bowel and bladder function
Standing helps to aid in the digestion process and can help people with disabilities to empty their bladder and bowel. This is important as sitting for long periods can reduce the efficiency of the going to the toilet.
-
Improved Cardiovascular function
Standing upright can have positive impacts on the cardiovascular function, it can improve the heart rate, blood pressure and reduce swelling in legs.
-
improves social wellbeing
Standing helps users to be more socially engaged with their peers. When standing in the frame, users are more at eye height and can engage with family and friends, it provides another great oppourtunity to work on communication skills.
At InterGen Health, as experts in movement and assistive technology, we can help you decide which standing frame is right for you. We will help organise trials with equipment companies and complete all the relevant reports and paperwork to help obtain the standing frame so you can start getting the benefits of standing.