Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also called ALS, is a progressive neuromuscular disease. It causes the loss of structure or function of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain. The brain loses its ability to control muscle movements. ALS is a progressive condition. A person with ALS typically experiences a sudden decline in function and their mobility needs change rapidly.
The Best Narrow Wheelchair for ALS
Individuals living with ALS disease may require a mobility aid such as a walker in the beginning stages, yet they will progress quickly to needing a complex rehab power wheelchair. The Edge 3 Stretto™ is the best narrow wheelchair, with an overall width of 20.75 inches with 12.5-inch drive wheels. This super narrow wheelchair can easily maneuver in small spaces. The Stretto can easily be adapted to accommodate the changing needs of ALS patients, from seating and positioning to alternate drive controls. The Edge 3 Stretto features independent SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) and comes standard with a USB charger and LED fender lights for greater visibility. The Stretto is available with iLevel® technology, allowing users to drive at 3.5 mph while elevated at 12 inches. Power seat elevation assists ALS patients in completing Mobility Related Activities of Daily Living (MRADLs), such as cooking, reaching, transferring and grooming.
A Super Narrow Wheelchair and Positioning
A patient living with ALS may require power positioning on his or her narrow wheelchair to assist with postural realignment, pressure relief and function. TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems is available on the Edge 3 Stretto. Highly adjustable, TRU-Balance 3 offers many options, including power tilt, power recline, power tilt and recline, power articulating foot platform and power articulating leg TRU-Balance 3 delivers an array of medical benefits, including increased sitting tolerance, independent repositioning and positioning for improved breathing and function.
Narrow Wheelchair Drive Controls
Patients with ALS disease may need expandable electronics to operate a complex rehab power wheelchair. In the beginning, an individual with ALS can use Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Controls and operate his or her chair with a joystick. Q-Logic 3 comes standard with Bluetooth®, enabling individuals to operate their smart phones and tablets using the Q-Logic 3 screen. Discover what else patients can do using Bluetooth and Q-Logic 3 on their super narrow wheelchair. As an individual’s ALS symptoms progress, Q-Logic 3 can be adapted to accept alternative drive controls, such as switched driving, chin control or a head array.
