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Seating arrangements for children with insufficient head control: lessons from trials using the i2i head & neck
Sachie Uyama1, Keiichi Hanaki2
1Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Japan ; Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Toyohashi Sozo University, Japan.
Insights
The i2i head and neck support system aids children with impaired mobility and insufficient head control. This innovative device improves spinal alignment, breathing, and daily activities, preventing further disability in children with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL).
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Insufficient head control is a significant challenge for children with impaired mobility, impacting their seating needs and overall function.
- Optimal seating is crucial for children with mobility impairments, particularly those with conditions like periventricular leukomalacia (PVL).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the newly developed i2i head & neck positioning & support system.
- To assess the i2i system's impact on children with locomotory disabilities and periventricular leukomalacia (PVL).
Main Methods:
- A clinical trial was conducted involving the i2i head & neck positioning & support system.
- The study focused on children with locomotory disabilities and periventricular leukomalacia (PVL).
Main Results:
- The i2i system demonstrated a favorable effect on spinal alignment, aiding in scoliosis prevention and promoting stable breathing.
- Improved seating and enhanced activities of daily living (ADL) were observed in participants using the i2i system.
- The i2i system applies force directly to the head, unlike conventional systems that rely on indirect pelvic stabilization.
Conclusions:
- The i2i device is useful for children with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) experiencing insufficient head control.
- The system supports the development of abilities and helps prevent secondary disabilities in affected children.
Abstract:
[Purpose] An insufficient head control is the most troublesome condition for children with impaired mobility who require optimal seating. [Subjects and Methods] We report on the clinical trial of the newly developed i2i head & neck positioning & support system called i2i for locomotively disabled children with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). [Results] Two major advantages of the i2i were observed in the trial. The first was its favorable effect on the alignment of the spine to prevent scoliosis and to provide stable breathing and optimal seating, which resulted in improvement of the children's activities of daily living (ADL). The second was its direct application of force to the head rather than indirectly to the pelvis in a conventional seat arrangement. The conventional way of head support is based on stabilization of the trunk which is based on stabilization of the pelvis by some seating arrangement. [Conclusion] The trial of the i2i device demonstrated its usefulness in helping PVL children with insufficient head control develop their abilities while preventing secondary disability.
