There are two types of stand-up wheelchairs. The first allows the occupant to transfer from a seated to standing position using an electronic mechanism. The second allows the occupant in a seated position to be raised to a higher point.
There are several advantages of using a stand-up wheelchair such as; greater independence for the occupant in both transferring and moving to manage pressure points, greater ability to reach high objects and increased social interaction as the individual is able to take part in face to face communication more easily.
Reported health benefits can also include improved circulation of blood to the muscles and bones resulting in reduced risk of muscle and bone conditions, prevention of pressure sores and improved kidney and bowel function as the occupant can alternate between sitting and standing postures.
One negative factor related to the stand-up wheelchair is the heavy weight of the mechanism itself, making it more difficult to push and transport.
The stand-up wheelchair is typically recommended for people who have problems with standing due to paralysis or those conditions disturbing balance such as spina bifida, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, hemiplegia, polio and multiple sclerosis. The stand-up wheelchair is not recommended for individuals with cardiac problems, brittle bones or certain orthopaedic conditions.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are various types of stand-up wheelchair including self propelled, motorised, power assisted or those suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The use of a stand-up wheelchair in the workplace can enable an individual to carry out work tasks in a standing position, socialise with colleagues and access staff amenities, such as the kitchen, more safely and independently. It is recommended that an individual seek medical advice before trialing a stand-up wheelchair as issues such as changes in blood pressure, heart problems, brittle bones and muscle contractures could cause difficulties if the person has not stood for some time.
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Levo Active-easy LAE Stand Up Wheelchair, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 5 August 2010, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search4.asp?State=QLD&MC=43&MinC=38&Item=7575&page=1.
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Permobil C500VS Power Stand Up Wheelchair, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 5 August 2010, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search4.asp?state=NSW&page=10&MC=43&MinC=38.