The human body is designed to function best in an upright position, standing or walking. This vertical position of the body is usually acquired autonomously at 10 months of age in children with typical development, but sometimes this motor milestone is delayed considerably or not reached for various reasons such as muscle weakness, muscle imbalances, lack of motor control, etc. This is where technical aids such as standing frames, mini-standers, or walkers (for locomotion) can help us a lot.
What is a Standing Frame?
The standing frame is a technical aid that allows maintaining the vertical position of the body by fixing the legs, hip, pelvis, and trunk, helping the child to focus only on the control of the head and arms so that they can interact with the environment (there are options with head support).
What Benefits Does the Use of the Standing Frame Provide?
1. Stimulates the reticular system, increasing the state of alertness and awareness, beneficial for learning and cognitive development during childhood.
2. Helps to acquire autonomous standing and walking in children with a prognosis of its acquisition (in these cases, its use is temporary until they achieve it).
3. Promotes cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive functions.
4. Allows the development of postural control, the orientation of the body in space, stimulates proprioceptive sensations, and decreases abnormal movements.
5. Helps with the remodeling of the hips, avoiding possible surgeries for subluxation or dislocation of the same, and reduces the risk of muscle shortening.
6. Promotes interaction with their peers and caregivers, relieving the caregiver’s burden and increasing activity and participation with the environment.
What Types of Standing Frames are there?
1. Plaster cast: These are the low-cost version, made by physiotherapists or occupational therapists. An option for cases in which it is foreseen that they will acquire autonomous standing in a short period of time or when there are several homes where the child spends a lot of time and there is only one orthopedic standing frame.
2. Orthopedic: these are standing frames with many adjustable options, but not all are covered by social security. An option for prolonged and lasting use.
When and for how Long should it be Used?
Scientific evidence tells us that standing should be promoted from 9-10 months of age if the ability to stand is not acquired. The use of the standing frame is recommended between 45 and 60 minutes daily, and its use can be extended if the child can tolerate it.
