NMC
Physiotherapy
Assisted
standing
There are
benefits to standing upright - even when we are unable to support ourselves.
The internal organs work more efficiently, the muscles of the legs are
stretched, weight-bearing helps strengthen bones and it helps to be
in a position where you are at eye level with everyone else.
There are
2 ways in which the physiotherapists provide assisted standing:
- Tilt
table
- Standing
Frame
For more
detailed photographs of these - see equipment.
Almost
anyone can be raised into the standing position using a Tilt table,
even if their legs do not go straight. The physiotherapists support
people with pillows and then hold them in position with padded straps
whilst the bed is tilted upright.
The straps hold the legs and body firmly so that there is no danger
of falling.
A table
is even attached in front when the tilt table is upright so that people
can read a magazine or have a cup of tea!
Most people
stand for about ½ hour, but some manage less - however long it
is there are still benefits.
The
standing frame
is used for those who can support their own upper body, have limited
tightness around the hips, knees and ankles, and are able to take their
own weight in assisted standing.
People
are helped into the standing frame by a physiotherapist and then held
in position by a padded support behind their hips. They are able to
move the top half of their body, but their legs are firmly fixed. They
also have a table in front of them for a magazine, laptop or cup of
tea. Standing time varies from person to person, but is often ½
an hour or more.
Tilt
Table
Standing
Frame
