Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of more than 30 genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. MD is characterized by abnormal genes that interfere with the production of proteins that are needed to form healthy muscle. Symptoms of muscular dystrophy can vary depending on the type and severity. Some symptoms include poor balance, frequent falls, difficulty walking and limited range of motion. The most common type of muscular dystrophy is Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
If your child has been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, 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 as his or her condition progresses. 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 complete Mobility Related Activities of Daily Living (MRADLs), such as reaching, cooking, grooming, toileting and transferring. The Edge 3 Stretto pediatric wheelchair also comes standard with LED front and rear fender lights, allowing users to see and be safely seen while crossing streets or parking lots.
As muscular dystrophy symptoms progress, your child may require power positioning on his or her pediatric wheelchair to help maintain proper positioning, comfort, skin integrity and function. TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems on electric wheelchairs offer a wide range of options when it comes to adjusting his or her positioning, including power tilt, power recline, power tilt and recline, power articulating leg rests, power articulating foot platform and iLevel. Not only does TRU-Balance 3 provide an appealing look and feel, it also maximizes functional independence.
Depending on the muscular dystrophy type, your child may require expandable electronics on his or her pediatric wheelchair. Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Controls allow operation of a power wheelchair using a joystick. Standard with Bluetooth®, Q-Logic 3 allows your child to operate his or her smart phone or tablet using the Q-Logic 3 screen. Q-Logic 3 can also be customized to include alternative drive controls such as a chin control, head array or switched driving.
Individuals with muscular dystrophy may benefit from Stealth Products® wheelchair cushions. Each pediatric wheelchair cushion offers a different function, such as general use and skin protection and positioning.
If you are looking to purchase a pediatric wheelchair, check out our resources on how to buy a pediatric wheelchair and where to buy one.
