Understanding Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a chronic condition that makes it difficult for an affected person to move freely and maintain appropriate posture and balance. It is the most common type of movement disorder in children today. Although adults have cerebral palsy as well, the condition begins in childhood, with diagnosis typically coming before age five.

The term cerebral means originating in the brain. Palsy refers to weakness and challenges using the muscles. Problems with brain development may begin in utero, during the birth process, or within the first several months to years of life. Cerebral palsy can manifest in several ways such as leg stiffness or spasticity.

How Power Wheelchairs Can Help

Some individuals with cerebral palsy have only a minor gait impairment that requires no assistance while others can get by using a walker or cane. For those with more significant needs, a Quantum power wheelchair for cerebral palsy can be beneficial.

The first step in determining the most appropriate power wheelchair is for an individual living with cerebral palsy to be measured by a clinician, so that an appropriate wheelchair base is selected. The power wheelchair should meet his or her needs for positioning and seating as well. TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems has many options available, including tilt, recline, tilt and recline, and static seating.

The Quantum Edge 3 power chair offers iLevel® Power Adjustable Seat Height, which enables the user to drive at 4.5 mph while elevated up to 12 inches. The increased seat height gives a person living with cerebral palsy confidence in social situations and provides enhanced safety when crossing streets or parking lots. iLevel also comes standard with LED fender lights, which helps individuals with cerebral palsy see and be seen.

How to Purchase a Quantum Power Wheelchair

If a doctor has previously diagnosed you or your child with cerebral palsy and you would like to obtain a Quantum power wheelchair for cerebral palsy, the first thing to do is schedule an in-person evaluation with a doctor or physical therapist. They determine whether a power wheelchair is needed, and then write a prescription. Once you have the prescription, you can visit a local Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider. A clinician can take measurements to ensure your power wheelchair is fitted appropriately and comfortable.

Quantum manufactures wheelchairs and makes them available to the public through dealers throughout the country and the world. To find a dealer in proximity to your home, visit the Quantum Provider Locator and follow the directions on the screen.

How to Obtain Funding for Power Adjustable Seat Height

iLevel technology can dramatically increase the quality of life of those living with cerebral palsy. Specifically, iLevel can help individuals with:

• Transferring
• Reaching items needed for everyday life such as kitchen appliances, medicine cabinets, and light switches
• Relieving neck pain from looking up at others all day from a seated position
• Decreased visibility when maneuvering a power wheelchair in the non-elevated position

If your insurance company denied your request for iLevel, consider filing an appeal outlining how it will help you perform functions you currently cannot do. Additionally, you may be able to obtain funding for iLevel from other sources. Visit our iLevel funding page for more information.