Cerebral palsy
Most common is ICP (infantile CP on account of oxygen starvation during the birth). It has different effects depending on the affected part of the brain: spastic hemiplegia, diplegia, tetraplegia, tremor, muscular tonus or balance disturbances. Controlled movements are often not possible. There are often other symptoms like impairment of speech, perception, vision or hearing, mental retardation or convulsions.
Wheelchair requirements
- Individual ergonomic adaptability of the whole seat unit (measures and angles) to stabilize and reduce spasticity and reduce body asymmetries
- Good driving characteristics, easy manoeuvrability of the wheelchair for strength-diminished movement.
- Possibility of using seat shells, choice of adaptable seat and backrest systems as alternatives.
- Simple handling of the control elements for promoting self-activity and independence.
- Sturdy wheelchair construction because of often severe spasticity.
