Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA), also known as Duchenne-Aran muscular atrophy, is a rare subtype of motor neuron disease, known as a sibling condition to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Progressive muscular atrophy only affects the lower motor neurons. Symptoms of PMA include atrophy, muscle weakness, lack of reflexes, lack of spasticity and can be limited to the arms, legs or both. Since its initial discovery in 1850, there has been debate in the scientific literature over whether PMA is a distinct disease with its own characteristics, or if it lies somewhere on a spectrum with ALS. Learn more about progressive muscular atrophy.
Many with progressive muscular atrophy experience the progressive loss of the ability to walk and position themselves, necessitating the use of a specialized narrow motorized wheelchair. Quantum Rehab®, the global leader in individualized power chairs, puts an emphasis on mobility technologies specific toward the needs of those with PMA. The Edge 3 Stretto™ narrow wheelchair is compatible with many options for power positioning, drive controls and power seating.
Quantum Power Chairs incorporate power-adjustable seating for user repositioning and comfort to meet an individual living with PMA’s current and future needs as their condition progresses. TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems on narrow electric wheelchairs offer a wide range of options when it comes to adjusting the positioning of the seating, including power tilt, power recline, power tilt and recline, power articulating leg rests, power articulating foot platform and iLevel®.
Quantum Power Chairs feature the latest complex rehab technologies to increase the independence of those living with progressive muscular atrophy. Optional iLevel® technology is compatible with the Edge 3 Stretto and allows a user to operate the power chair While elevated. The electric wheelchair user can elevate 12 inches while driving at 3.5 mph, helping them complete Mobility Related Activities of Daily Living (MRADLs), such as grooming, toileting, transferring, reaching and cooking.
Patients with PMA may benefit from Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Controls, an expandable controller system that maximizes user independence. Bluetooth® is standard on Q-Logic 3 electronics, so individuals with progressive muscular atrophy can control their environment using Q-Logic 3. Learn more about Q-Logic 3’s features.
If you are looking to purchase a narrow wheelchair, check out our article on how to buy a narrow wheelchair.
