STANDING FRAME DEVELOPMENT FOR THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. They may have problems with sensation, vision, hearing, swallowing, movement and speaking. Basically, there is no specific treatment or medicine for them to cure. However, supportive treatments, assistive devices, occupational therapy, medications, and surgery may help them. This study is carried out to focus on developing assistive devices for children with CP. In our survey, there is lack off special equipment in local market, the product sizes are unsuitable with Asian size and the price is costly because it need to be imported. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop a Standing Frame and to test it with the sample. The chosen sample is in mild CP category. Anthropometric data is the most important in designing and developing the product because it has to be customized for the needs of children with CP and meet the ergonomic aspect. The main materials used are hollow steel, leather, and sponge foam. In term of mechanical aspect, sitting position will help the standing position system more effective when combined. Wide straps used to make it more safety and the table equipped will help the children more stable in standing position. Overall, this product has a potential to penetrate in local market because it has a demand, affordable by parent and it will help the CP children to do the standing exercise regularly. It is hopefully by develop more assistive devices through innovation; disabilities people will feel love, support and concern from community.