Spina bifida is a condition where the spine does not form normally, typically occurring early in the pregnancy. When the neural tube doesn’t close all the way, the backbone that protects the spinal cord of the fetus doesn’t form and close as it should, resulting in damage to the spine and nerves. There are three different types of spina bifida, including myelomeningocele, meningocele and spina bifida occulta.
If your child has been diagnosed with spina bifida, Quantum® pediatric wheelchairs can help improve his or her independence and mobility. Depending on the severity of your child’s condition, it is possible that he or she can be fitted for a complex rehab electric wheelchair that is customized to meet his or her needs. The Edge 3 Stretto™ pediatric wheelchair is compatible with a wide range of power seating, positioning and drive controls.
The Edge 3 Stretto pediatric wheelchair is available with iLevel® power adjustable seat height, allowing your child to drive at 3.5 mph while elevated 12 inches so he or she can safely cross streets and independently perform daily tasks around the house, such as transfers, reaching for objects they may need and grooming. iLevel’s patented Extra Stability Technology® enhances safety for carrying out those daily tasks.
Depending on the type and severity of your child’s spina bifida, individuals may use Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Controls to drive his or her pediatric wheelchair. The controller system is highly customizable and user-friendly, making it easy for your child to learn to operate. Standard with Bluetooth®, your child can operate his or her smart phone or tablet using their Q-Logic 3 screen. With the Q-Logic 3 EX Enhanced Display, spina bifida patients can also operate a wide range of appliances, such as their TV, lights in their room, and fans that use infrared (IR) remote controls using their pediatric wheelchair controller.
Children living with spina bifida symptoms may also benefit from Stealth Products® wheelchair cushions. Each pediatric wheelchair cushion offers a different function, such as general use and skin protection and positioning. The Zen SP wheelchair cushion features a CoolCore® technology cover that is breathable and moisture wicking, keeping children with spina bifida cooler in warm weather and warmer in cooler weather.
If you are looking to purchase a pediatric wheelchair, check out our resources on how to buy a pediatric wheelchair and where to buy a pediatric wheelchair.
