Parkinson's disease
Parkinson’s disease is a long-term degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that affects mainly movement. The symptoms will start gradually and worsen over time as the disease progresses. The symptoms will often begin in one side of the body and usually remain worse on that side, even after symptoms begin to affect the other side as well.
Symptoms
- Tremor – usually starting in a limb often finger or hand
- Slower movements when walking or getting out of a chair
- Muscle stiffness
- Impaired posture and balance
- Loss of automatic movements like blinking or smiling
- Speech changes
- Typical for Parkinson is the “mask” face, meaning very little to none facial expression
- Difficulties starting a movement like, walking, raising out of chair but also often difficult stopping. Parkinson’s patients often need to “rock” their body before the can initiate the movement.
EVALUATE AND SET GOALS
Using the Netti Method, you will be able to assess the demands of the user for the wheelchair configuration to create optimal activity of daily living (ADL).
Read more about the Netti Method
Improve vital functions
Increase eating ability
Less pain
HOW TO SECURE A GOOD SEATING SOLUTION
- An ad-on drive for the wheelchair will contribute to the quality of life for the user.
- An option for independent transfer like hinged or swingable arm supports as well as swing away leg supports, and some degrees negative tilt will make it easier to make a good transfer.
- For some users with tremor in the legs, a Netti Dynamic leg or foot support will offer relieve and comfort as the movements will be allowed and supported.
- If the user has stiff legs and short hamstrings, a universal leg support allowing an adjustment below 90° will offer necessary reduction in tension, and influence the seating position positive.
- To give the necessary stability to the body, a chair with an adjustable Velcro back and a supportive back cushion will allow the user to be positioned upright hence supporting the possibility to take part in everyday life.
