Power Wheelchairs for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a chronic condition where patients are unable to fully control muscles, body movement and coordination. The condition typically originates before birth or during infancy, often due to trauma or lack of oxygen to the brain. Cerebral palsy symptoms may include spasticity, muscle spasms, involuntary movements, seizures, disturbance in gait and mobility, as well as impairment of sight, speech and hearing. There are three different cerebral palsy types: spastic, ataxic, and athetoid or dyskinetic.

For cerebral palsy, assistive technology may be required depending on the severity of the condition. Some individuals may need a walker or brace to achieve independent mobility. More serious cerebral palsy types, however, may require power mobility, and Quantum® Power Chairs can provide cerebral palsy patients with the products they need to maintain mobility and independence. Many Quantum motorized wheelchairs have options for cerebral palsy patients that are beginning power mobility use at an early age.

A cerebral palsy patient should be fitted with a power wheelchair base that is compatible with components suited to meet the individual’s needs. The Edge 3 motorized wheelchair is an excellent cerebral palsy wheelchair choice because it is compatible with an array of power seating, positioning and drive controls. The Edge 3 electric wheelchair is available with optional 7km/h iLevel® technology, allowing the user to drive at 4.5 mph so they can safely cross streets and parking lots. iLevel power adjustable seat height raises cerebral palsy patients up to 12 inches, increasing their independence and enhancing social interaction. The Edge 3 also comes standard with LED wheelchair fender lights, allowing users to see and be safely seen.

Cerebral palsy symptoms may require power positioning components in order to help with pressure relief or independent weight shifting. TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems maximizes functional independence and has the ability for quick and easy fine-tuning of adjustments for maximum comfort. Available configurations on electric wheelchairs include power tilt, power recline, iLevel power elevating seat, static seating, contoured seating and manual recline.

Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Controls are highly customizable and user friendly. The Q-Logic 3 EX Joystick comes standard with wireless Bluetooth® programming through Windows devices and Bluetooth® access to computer, tablet and phone functions. Cerebral palsy wheelchair users can easily use their electronic devices using the controller on their power wheelchair. The Q-Logic 3 EX Enhanced Display is equipped with multiple benefits including the ability to learn infrared commands so you can control devices to further improve independence and Bluetooth wireless mouse emulation. Bluetooth capability enhances learning in the school environment by providing wireless computer access for more independent participation.

No matter the cerebral palsy type or symptom, there are wheelchair options available for both children and adults to enhance their mobility and independence needs.