Pediatric Mobility

There are differences to consider when prescribing mobility devices for pediatric patients versus adult patients. Kids are not tiny adults and do have different mobility issues and needs. Everyone from parents, teachers, physicians and therapists agree that children need mobility that will help them interact on the same level and allow them to do some of the same activities as their friends – as much as possible. This is essential to their overall development. It doesn’t matter if they need a walker, crutches, a manual wheelchair or power wheelchair. Addressing their special needs for any type of equipment is required.

In determining pediatric mobility needs there are a few factors to consider. These include the home environment, school and classroom needs, playground, child’s own backyard and transportation. Functional mobility must also be comfortable and fit within the child’s lifestyle.

Children need to be able to integrate as much as possible into their world. If at all possible they need to be able to function with their peers independently. This improves their self-image and confidence. After all a child’s main job is play! They need this to explore and develop skills.

Pediatric mobility should focus on preventing the development of secondary complications,  reducing the risk of further injury, and stabilizing the child’s condition. To determine the correct mobility needs a physical evaluation by the child’s doctor is needed, individual objectives, long term goals and child’s lifestyle need to be considered and a physical therapist evaluation is recommended.This gives a solid foundation from which the correct pediatric mobility products can be prescribed.