2 Questions To Ask When Choosing A Mobility Aid For Your Young Child With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

As the parent of a young child with spastic cerebral palsy, also known as CP, choosing the right type of long-term mobility aid for them is an enormous and expensive decision. Since many medical assistance and health insurance companies limit how often they will subsidize the cost of wheelchairs, motorized tricycles and other adaptive transportation devices, choosing the most appropriate unit is crucial. Fortunately, your child's ability to ambulate and be as independent as possible will be a little easier when you know the right questions to ask when choosing their mobility aid.

#1-What Accessories And Mobility Aids Is Your Child Likely To Benefit From? 

Unfortunately, it will first be necessary to clarify the details of your child's illness before choosing a mobility aid. For instance, if your son or daughter suffers from spastic CP, they could be more likely to benefit from a mobility aid that allows for the probability of higher-than-normal muscle tone and uncontrolled muscular movements. 

Helpful options can include reclining seats on a wheelchair and removable leg supports on a power chair. Alternatively, a stander is also useful for both pre-school and older children with spastic CP, as it provides the support they need to stand, while also limiting the possibility of bedsores and exercising their muscles.     

#2-What Type Of Changes Or Improvements Will Your Child Experience In The Next Few Years? 

It is important to consider that cerebral palsy is a medical diagnosis that encompasses a variety of different symptoms. In addition, the intensity and severity of symptoms can vary significantly. As a result, there is not just a single recommendation that would be universally appropriate for all young children with spastic cerebral palsy. 

Instead, your physician and other health care providers will need to assess the extent of the illness, progress that has been made and progress that is likely to occur in the next few years. Since kids with CP are prone to skeletal and movement issues, decisions about the use of a reinforced neck-support and extra guards for rapidly moving limbs are crucial. Therefore, before committing to a purchase that your child may be using for several years, be sure that all of the appropriate adaptive devices are planned for.

In conclusion, encouraging your little one with cerebral palsy to explore their independence and free movements is easier when they have access to an appropriate mobility aid. Only by knowing the current diagnosis and knowing what to expect in the future, can you be sure that your child receives the most appropriate mobility aid. 

For more information on mobility aids, check out a company like Twin City Stair Lifts.