Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neuromuscular disease that causes the loss of structure or function of neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These motor neurons control voluntary muscle movement, and ALS decreases one’s ability to control movements, such as chewing, walking, breathing and talking. Due to the progressive nature of the disease, a person with ALS typically experiences sudden decline in function, and their mobility needs change very quickly.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ALS, a mobility aid such as a power wheelchair, may aid in increasing mobility and independence. The Edge 3 Stretto™ narrow wheelchair is customizable and can easily accommodate an array of seating, positioning and electronics components to meet the ever-changing needs as the disease progresses.
The Edge 3 Stretto is available with iLevel® power adjustable seat height. iLevel raises individuals with ALS up to 12 inches while driving at 3.5 mph, enabling them to complete Mobility Related Activities of Daily Living (MRADLs), such as reaching, cooking, grooming, toileting and transferring. The Edge 3 Stretto narrow electric wheelchair also comes standard with LED front and rear fender lights, allowing users to see and be safely seen while they navigate low lighted areas.
Expandable electronics, such as Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Controls, can also aid in mobility and independence for individuals living with ALS. Standard with Bluetooth®, an individual with ALS can operate his or her smart phone or tablet using the Q-Logic 3 screen. As ALS symptoms progress, Q-Logic 3 can be expanded to accept alternative drive controls such as a chin control, head array or switched driving. Learn more about Q-Logic 3’s features and how they can help you or your loved one with ALS.
With ALS symptoms, a patient may need power positioning on his or her narrow electric wheelchair to assist with pressure relief, postural realignment and function. TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems on narrow electric wheelchairs are highly adjustable and offer an array of medical benefits, including pressure relief, increased sitting tolerance, independent repositioning and positioning for improved breathing and function. Available options on TRU-Balance® 3 include power tilt, power recline, iLevel, power articulating leg rests and power articulating foot platform.
Individuals diagnosed with ALS may benefit from Stealth Products® wheelchair cushions. Each narrow wheelchair cushion offers a different function, such as skin protection and positioning and general use. Learn more about narrow wheelchair cushions.
