The latest News
Discover Quantum Rehab, our products, and the world of Complex Rehab.
Subscribe to our newsletter
"*" indicates required fields
Looking for more information?
Take a look at our FAQ. We’ve got plenty of helpful tips and answers waiting for you.
Categories
Why Multiple Power Functions Matter in Powerchair Prescription
When it comes to prescribing a powerchair, especially for users with complex mobility needs, the inclusion of multiple powered seating functions can make a significant difference. While tilt or recline alone may offer some benefits, using these features in combination has been shown to deliver far more effective clinical outcomes.
When tilt and recline are used together, they form a clinically significant system that offers better pressure relief, improved positioning, and greater functional independence.
More Effective Pressure Management
A major reason clinicians recommend powered seating functions is pressure relief. Tilt helps redistribute body weight from the seat to the backrest, while recline shifts the body into a more open position. When combined, these functions allow users to achieve much greater pressure redistribution than either feature alone.
Used together, tilt and recline can reduce pressure on vulnerable areas and support skin integrity, especially for those at high risk of pressure injuries.
Supporting Joint Health Over Time
Recline is particularly helpful for allowing movement through a joint’s full range of motion. For users with limited mobility or neurological conditions, this movement is crucial to reduce the likelihood of contractures; permanent shortening of muscles and joints that can restrict function.
Incorporating recline alongside tilt provides opportunities for postural variation and movement throughout the day, helping to protect joint health over time.
Reducing Shear and Sliding Risks
A common issue with recline-only systems is forward sliding of the pelvis, which increases shear forces on the skin. Adding tilt before recline can help hold the pelvis in place and maintain alignment as the backrest opens. This combination reduces shear, enhances stability, and improves safety.
Easier Self-Repositioning
Many users experience gradual forward movement in their seating position throughout the day. When both tilt and recline are available, the user can use gravity to assist with repositioning. For example, tilting beyond 45 degrees and reclining the backrest allows the body to naturally slide back into place.
This reduces reliance on a caregiver and allows users to manage their own posture more independently.
Improving Circulation and Managing Swelling
Poor circulation in the lower limbs is a common issue for wheelchair users. Elevating the legs can help, but when tilt is used alone, the hips remain flexed, which may limit circulation. By adding recline, the user can extend the knees and allow the legs to elevate fully while reducing strain on the hamstrings.
This combination helps promote venous return and may assist in reducing oedema (swelling) more effectively.
Supporting Comfort Throughout the Day
Remaining in a fixed position for extended periods can lead to fatigue and discomfort. With access to tilt and recline, users can adjust their posture throughout the day to stay comfortable and alert. Whether resting, eating, using a device, or engaging socially, a range of seating positions can help maintain energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Enhancing Transfer Safety
Transfers are a regular part of many users’ routines and can be a risk point for both the individual and their caregiver. Tilt can help stabilise the trunk before a transfer, while recline may be useful for supine sliding transfers when paired with leg elevation.
Having more control over body positioning can also reduce the number of transfers needed throughout the day, which helps minimise injury and strain.
Improving Trunk Control on Slopes
Maintaining posture while navigating uneven terrain or slopes can be challenging without adequate trunk support. Using tilt and recline together allows for trunk positioning adjustments that support better balance and safer driving, especially on outdoor surfaces.
Better Function for Communication, Breathing, and Swallowing
Posture doesn’t just affect comfort, it impacts essential functions like speech, respiration, and swallowing. Reclining the back and adjusting the head position can improve chest expansion, making breathing easier and more effective. This can lead to better speech, reduced fatigue, and a lower risk of aspiration during eating.
For users who rely on augmentative communication or vision-based technologies, posture adjustments also help maintain clear visual access.
Managing Blood Pressure Changes
Some users experience a drop in blood pressure when moving from lying down to sitting upright, known as orthostatic hypotension. Power recline can be used to help manage these symptoms by gradually transitioning between positions. Combined with tilt, it allows users to regulate their posture in a way that supports cardiovascular stability.
Supporting Bowel and Bladder Care
Recline also plays a role in enabling certain daily routines such as catheterisation or bowel management. It gives users and caregivers better access and positioning for these tasks, which can be carried out more safely and with greater dignity.
While power tilt or recline can each be beneficial, the combined use of both creates a more adaptable, clinically appropriate seating system. For users with long-term or complex needs, having multiple power options allows for better pressure management, improved posture, and a wider range of functional movement.
When evaluating a powerchair prescription, consider whether a single function truly meets your client’s needs or whether multiple power functions will deliver the long-term outcomes they deserve.
References
Dicianno, B.E., et al. (2009). RESNA Position on the Application of Tilt, Recline, and Elevating Legrests for Wheelchairs. Assistive Technology, 21(1), 13–22.
Dicianno, B.E., et al. (2015). RESNA Position on the Application of Tilt, Recline, and Elevating Legrests for Wheelchairs – Literature Update. Assistive Technology, 27(3), 193–198.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Improving Customer Support with Interactive Assist
In the world of assistive technology, efficiency and timely support are important to maintaining user independence. Interactive Assist is transforming how providers troubleshoot and resolve issues remotely, minimising downtime and improving client satisfaction. This innovative solution bridges the gap between clients and providers by enabling real-time diagnostics and adjustments without requiring an in-person visit.
What is Interactive Assist?
Interactive Assist is a remote troubleshooting and programming tool that allows providers to connect with clients in real time to diagnose and resolve technical issues. Whether it’s a power wheelchair experiencing performance issues or the need to reprogram specialty controls, this system streamlines communication and reduces the need for multiple service visits.
Key Benefits of Interactive Assist
- Faster Troubleshooting
When a client experiences issues such as veering to one side, slow driving, or reduced battery life per charge, they can call their provider for immediate assistance. Interactive Assist grants providers remote access to the system, allowing them to monitor, diagnose, and guide clients through solutions without waiting for an in-person appointment.
For example:
If a client reports slow driving despite turning up the speed potentiometer (speed pot), the provider can check the system remotely.
If the display still shows the speed pot as being turned down, the provider can verify whether the control itself is faulty and ensure the correct parts are brought for repair.
- Efficient System Programming
Clients who need environmental (IR) programming can have their systems updated remotely. Instead of waiting for an in-home visit, providers can:
- Enable IR functions in the enhanced display.
- Build and customise menu trees for IR use.
- Save programming settings for future adjustments.
This means that caregivers and clients can immediately access new functionalities without unnecessary delays.
- Reducing On-Site Visits
Sometimes, specialty controls require installation, but a programmer may not always be available for an in-home visit. With Interactive Assist, a remote technician can make the necessary programming changes while an on-site technician completes the installation. This eliminates the need for multiple service trips, saving both time and resources.
- Real-Time Display Monitoring
One of the standout features of Interactive Assist is remote display monitoring. Providers can view a client’s drive screen in real time, allowing them to:
- Observe faults as they occur, eliminating false error code reports.
- Educate clients on menu navigation and system settings without needing an on-site visit.
- Provide immediate solutions for common troubleshooting issues.
A Game-Changer for Client Independence
Interactive Assist is more than just a diagnostic tool; it’s an essential solution for empowering clients and caregivers. By reducing wait times for service, enabling real-time troubleshooting, and offering remote programming capabilities, this technology significantly enhances the user experience.
Clients can enjoy a higher level of independence, while providers can deliver more efficient, cost-effective, and responsive support. In an era where technology is shaping accessibility, Interactive Assist is paving the way for a smarter, more connected approach to assistive device management.
Are you a provider looking to improve service efficiency? Consider integrating Interactive Assist into your workflow and experience the benefits of remote troubleshooting and programming today!
No matter how complex your needs, Quantum Rehab has a product which will ensure you can go about your daily tasks with as much independence and self agency as possible.
If you would like to contact us to chat through your specific needs in more detail, please do not hesitate to call us direct on 01869 324600, or drop us a line through our online contact form.
Alternatively, you can reach out to our team of Quantum Rehab Specialists to find out more.
How Mobility Aids Promotes Health and Wellbeing
Mobility aid equipment can help people with limited mobility move around more easily indoors and outdoors. A wide range of mobility aids are available to assist various mobility issues, each offering the user a multitude of benefits. They are pivotal for people with limited mobility, especially when it comes to their health and wellbeing, as mobility aid equipment improves the user’s quality of life. Users of mobility aids can be the elderly, people with medical conditions, injuries and disabilities.
At Quantum Rehab, we provide people with limited mobility with a collection of comfortable and supportive wheelchairs. From manual wheelchairs to electric motor powerchairs, there is a mobility aid solution for a wide variety of mobility needs. Discover how these wheelchairs, and other mobility aids, promotes health and wellbeing, positively changing users’ lives.
Types of mobility aids
There is a plethora of mobility aids available to suit various mobility issues and the individual’s needs. Each type of mobility aid equipment serves a different purpose and so it’s vital to ensure you are using the correct aid for you and your needs.
Mobility scooters
Mobility scooters are an ideal aid for travelling long distances when you are unable to walk for long periods of time. They are also a great tool to use for people with control of their upper body to be able to steer and manoeuvre the scooter. They can come with different features to suit your needs.
You can get lightweight and foldable scooters that are perfect for travelling with, especially when going abroad or on a long road trip. You can also get three-wheel scooters that are easier to manoeuvre and are often lighter, allowing many people to get out and about. Mobility scooters can also suit outdoor adventures as they can come with four wheels which offer stability and can tackle all sorts of terrains.
Walking sticks and canes
For people who have little balance or are weaker in their legs, then walking sticks and canes are an ideal mobility aid. These offer support and shifts weight from the legs to the upper body so that strain on the lower limbs is reduced.
There are a few types of sticks and canes available to suit various mobility issues. However, this mobility aid equipment is beneficial for people who can walk but need assistance with strengthening their legs. You can get standard sticks and canes that provide basic support and are adjustable to suit your required height to help you walk comfortably. There are also offset canes that are excellent for distributing your weight evenly helping to keep you balanced when you walk. These are perfect for people with little to no balance when walking.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are a vital mobility aid for people with severe mobility issues or those who can’t walk at all. They offer users mobility to get around wherever and whenever they please, changing their lives for the better. Wheelchairs come in various forms with lots of different features to suit a range of needs, making it easier for people with limited mobility to explore the outdoors and move freely around indoors.
The two main wheelchair options are a manual wheelchair and an electric motor wheelchair. Manual wheelchairs require you to have movement in your upper body to push yourself along. These are ideal to use for short periods of time or for those who can self-propel. Manual wheelchairs are also often used for a variety of sports to manoeuvre where you need to go. Electric motor wheelchairs are perfect for longer periods of time or for those with limited upper body movement and strength. These can be operated by switches, buttons and joysticks to move easily and quickly around. They are great for indoors and outdoors and come with various features to suit your requirements, such as outdoor electric wheelchairs for rugged and difficult terrains.
Walkers and rollators
Walkers and rollators are ideal for people who can move but need extra support than walking sticks and canes can give them. These offer better stability as they have a four-point contact with the ground. They can come in a few different forms, such as standard walkers which offer maximum support due to the sturdy frame and four legs. There are also two-wheeled walkers that come with wheels on the front legs to help with moving the walker around. These are ideal for people with less upper body strength as they can easily push this walker around while gaining strength in the legs through the support the walker gives.
Rollators often have a seat to rest on when needed, which is perfect for people who can walk short distances but who often get tired or sore from walking. They also have four wheels, brakes and a basket making these the ideal choice for heading outdoors.
How do mobility aids promote health and wellbeing?
Mobility aid equipment can promote health and wellbeing in numerous ways, giving users multiple benefits and a positive change to their lives. Mobility aids can drastically change the lives of many with mobility issues, adding value and improving their quality of life which, in turn, aids with their physical and mental health.
Reduces aches and pains
Mobility aids can help users with any aches and pains, as well as sores. They reduce nasty flare-ups and alleviate the pressure on key body parts. They can support your hips, legs, ankles, and knees or even give you neck support when needed.
Aches and pains often flare when people with limited mobility aren’t fully supported, comfortable or aren’t using the correct mobility aid for them. Everyone can reduce aches and pains when using the right mobility aid but particularly people with chronic pain conditions or arthritis can benefit as painful flare-ups occur more with these conditions.
Improves independence and gives freedom
Using mobility aid equipment allows people to gain independence and freedom. This is because they can move around freely and carry out daily activities with no assistance from someone else. People with limited mobility can independently move around indoors and outdoors doing daily tasks and exploring the world. This means they can do what they love more without needing to rely on anyone else and even create new hobbies.
Having the freedom to go wherever they want at any time they like, boosts users’ confidence and improves their mental wellbeing instantly. They can feel happier from gaining vital fresh air and gain joy from daily activities and hobbies they usually need someone to help with.
Helps with socialising and exploring the world
As people with mobility issues can get out and about more when using a suitable mobility aid, it allows them to explore places they may never have seen before. They can enjoy the freedom of the outdoors, taking in various history and culture from all around the world. Mobility aids also allow users to travel more and go on holidays, ensuring they get to see incredible places just like everyone else.
By heading outdoors more, people with reduced mobility can have more opportunities to socialise with others. They can join in with social activities and enjoy new hobbies to meet new people due to the independence mobility aids give. These aids can make it possible for users to attend gatherings, visit friends and family and even go shopping. This can massively improve their mental health as they won’t feel isolated or lonely as they can mix and socialise with a wide variety of people. Plus, people with mobility issues can also gain advice, help or listen to others to lift a weight off their shoulders and make them feel happier.
Enhances safety and stability
Mobility aid equipment can enhance users’ safety and stability. This is because mobility aids reduce the risk of falls and injuries as they support users and heighten their stability. This is particularly the case for the elderly and people with little to no balance as they can be stabilised when walking or moving.
Mobility aids at Quantum Rehab
Here at Quantum Rehab, we have a selection of mobility aids to help support you daily and change your life for the better. We have a plethora of wheelchairs to suit your needs that all support different mobility issues. Our manual wheelchairs and paediatric disability strollers incorporate various components to accommodate the needs of individuals requiring mobility aid. They are perfect for short-term independence, getting around the house to do daily activities and are great for heading outdoors with someone to assist.
To reap the most benefits to your health and wellbeing our electric motor wheelchairs are a great option. These can be used for travelling, long periods of time outdoors and full independence daily. We have a wide selection of electric wheelchairs for various interests and hobbies that each tackle different terrains.
If you are looking for the ideal mobility aid equipment for you or have any questions about our wheelchairs, then please contact us.
Innovations in Electric Mobility Chair Design
The operational features of electric mobility chairs now include several innovative technologies. These advancements are specifically designed to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when using Quantum powerchairs.
While every individual’s needs are different and complex, an electric mobility wheelchair design has four fundamental criteria that need to be met:
- What are the user’s overall mobility needs? Will the chair be used on a permanent or occasional basis?
- What is the main environment in which the chair will be used? Do you operate primarily within a smooth, urban corporate environment where an indoor electric mobility chair can easily navigate on smooth floors, or is a more rugged countryside terrain the norm?
- What activities and lifestyles need to be considered?
- What changes need to be accommodated with regards to comfort, safety and posture?
Browse our range of power chairs here
Once the best electric mobility chair has been selected, the next step is to kit it out with the necessary technological innovations to drive the chair in the most smooth, efficient and user friendly way possible.
Adapting Electric Mobility Chairs for Adults and Children Alike
Quantum Rehab is a UK industry leader when it comes to electronic drive controls, offering a range of products that are designed to make the use of its powerchairs much more user friendly.
The key design features include an ergonomic design, a user-friendly display screen, responsiveness, and adaptability to future developments. Perhaps most important of all, is that the technology promotes a greater feeling of independence for the wheelchair user.
For example, a range of Quantum’s electric mobility chairs are integrated with the Q-Logic 3, and advanced drive control system that not only operates the chair itself, but that can also be integrated with the user’s own Smart devices so that they can operated from the Q-Logic 3 controller and screen interface.
What this means is that the electric mobility chair user will be able to operate various home appliances and systems that use infrared (IR) remote controls, such as the central heating, television, lights and computer, all from a single screen. The sense of independence and empowerment that this degree of control can significantly impact an individual’s sense of self-worth and confidence, minimising dependence on a carer.
Check out our Q-Logic 3 system here
If required, the chair can be fitted with the Q-Logic 3 Enhanced Display, which gives the wheelchair user a larger, even more user-friendly interface screen which is Bluetooth connected to a range of Smart devices.
Reducing Anxiety with Electric Mobility Chair Online Diagnostics
Even the best electric mobility chair on the market is susceptible to breaking down on occasion, or developing a bug or two. This is more than inconvenient for someone who relies on the chair to achieve the simplest of daily tasks.
Quantum’s Interactive Assist, which can be used with the Q-Logic 3 Advanced Display, is an app based diagnostic tool that connects the chair to the provider’s programming station. Should a problem arise with the chair, the user can contact a technician, who has access to the chairs error log, direct via the app. If appropriate, they can direct the user to a simple recalibration, or advise on the next step.
Check out our Interactive Assist here
Optimising Comfort and Posture
Whether assessing an electric mobility chair for elderly individuals, or for the youngest of children, being aware of pressure points around cushions, backrests and seating is vital for the avoidance of pressure sores and a safe and comfortable seat.
BodiTrak2 Pro is designed to monitor potential pressure issues by mapping the seated posture of the power chair user, giving clinicians and carers a clear picture of potential issues and allows them to readjust seating protocols accordingly. This can save the wheelchair user from the pain and indignity of developing uncomfortable pressure sores which can open them up to infection and a long recovery.
Check out the BodiTrak system here
Maintaining an ongoing commitment to user safety and comfort is further illustrated through Quantum’s collaboration with market leaders in specialised accessories and equipment. Companies such as Stealth Products have experience and expertise in the adaptation and modification of an electric mobility chair, to meet the individual needs of each and every user, whatever their specific needs may be.
Quantum works with partners such as Stealth, safe in the knowledge that they are truly specialists in designing and fitting accessories that match Quantum’s own values of empowering and promoting independence.
Check out Stealth products here
No matter how complex your needs, Quantum has a wealth of knowledge and products which will ensure you can go about your daily tasks with as much independence and self agency as possible. If you would like to contact us to chat through your specific needs in more detail, please do not hesitate to call us direct on 01869 324600, or drop us a line through our online contact form.
Choosing the Right Motorised Wheelchair for Your Needs
In order to maintain independence and quality of life, individuals need to prioritise their mobility. For those with mobility impairments, a wheelchair, motorised or not, serves as an indispensable tool to provide freedom and accessibility. That said, it goes without saying that motorised wheelchairs allow for more independence than their manual counterparts. When selecting a motorised wheelchair, though, you must consider a number of factors to ensure that you choose one that meets your individual needs and preferences. It’s for this reason that we’ve put together this helpful guide to assist individuals in the decision-making process.
Understanding Your Needs
First things first, when selecting a motorised wheelchair, you need to understand your specific requirements. At Quantum Rehab we have a team of experts that carry out a full assessment to ensure you get the right powerchair to suit your needs. There are a number of factors to consider, including the following:
- Mobility requirements – The first thing to consider is whether you require a motorised wheelchair full-time or it’s something you’d have for occasional use.
- Terrain and environment – Following this, you’ll also need to think about the typical surfaces and environments you’ll encounter, including indoor spaces, outdoor pathways, or rugged terrain.
- Lifestyle and activities – Similarly, it’s important to consider your daily activities and lifestyle preferences; for instance, will you predominantly use the wheelchair indoors, outdoors, or both? Do you often find yourself in situations that require specialised features (e.g., sports or travelling)?
- Seating and posture needs – Last but not least, you’ll need to evaluate your seating and posture requirements, such as comfort, support, and any specific medical considerations, like pressure relief or positioning needs.
Types of Electric Motorised Wheelchairs
Quantum provides a number of motorised wheelchairs, each of which is designed to cater to a unique set of requirements. So, discover more about our range below:
Edge 3 Stretto
The Edge 3 Stretto is the most manoeuvrable motorised wheelchair available with its narrow base of just 52”. Therefore, it’s great for both indoor and outdoor use. Easily navigating through narrow door frames and tight corners.
R-Trak
The R-Trak provides the smoothest ride with its impressive SRS suspension system and rear-wheel drive capabilities. This is in addition to its elegant yet powerful design that can handle all manner of terrains. For these reasons, the R-Trak is ideal for users with active lifestyles.
Sparky
The Sparky provides full rehabilitation capabilities, all within a compact and powerful paediatric package. As a result, this motorised wheelchair is designed for use by children in the environments that they regularly frequent.
Kozmo Portable
The Kozmo Portable provides the perfect solution for confined spaces since it combines manoeuvrability with a compact design and an impressive tight turning circle of 64.5cm. Similarly, it’s easily dismantled for transport and storage.
Fusion E
The Fusion E boasts affordability without compromising on quality. It has rear-wheel drive capabilities and a modular design with state-of-the-art technology. Similarly, its unparalleled obstacle-climbing capabilities make it great for users with active lifestyles.
Aspen
The Aspen is another affordable option that still boasts a modular state-of-the-art design and rear-wheel drive capabilities. This is in addition to the improved obstacle-climbing performance and tighter turning radius.
Q6 Edge 2.0
The Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 has been engineered to meet the performance needs and demands of the most active user. This includes a stylish Synergy Seating System that allows for effortless adjustments.
Q6 Edge 2.0 HD
As made clear by the name, the Q6 Edge 2.0 HD is the heavy-duty version of the Q6 Edge 2.0. Therefore, it boasts all the features of the Q6 Edge 2.0 with heavy-duty capabilities.
4Front 2
The 4Front 2 is the next generation of front-wheel drive powerchairs, boasting Smart Traction Control and Smooth Ride Suspension to provide stability for smooth obstacle transitions and an unmatched driving performance.
4Front 2 HD
It goes without saying that the 4Front 2 HD offers all the features provided by the 4Front 2 but with the added bonus of heavy-duty capabilities.
Q4
The Q4 boasts exceptional features combined with a compact chassis, and it’s designed for both indoor and outdoor use. This is because it has a tight turning radius that makes it perfect for the demands of the most active individuals.
Edge 3
The Edge 3 is our most advanced powerchair yet, thanks to the upgraded Smooth Ride Suspension, promising better stability and a smooth and comfortable ride.
Q6 Edge HD
The Q6 Edge HD is engineered to meet the performance needs of the most active user. This is made possible by features like four-pole motors, a mid-wheel 6-drive design, and ATX suspension.
Q1450
The Q1450 promises high performance and high efficiency, as delivered by the front-wheel drive capabilities and innovative design. This motorised wheelchair delivers exceptional outdoor performance and tight space manoeuvrability.
Shop Motorised Wheelchairs in the UK at Quantum
If you’re on the hunt for a motorised electric wheelchair, then Quantum is here to help. For further advice and guidance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Balancing life with TRU-Balance 4
It’s widely known that manoeuvring a power chair can make some daily tasks easier, but for some tasks have we really helped at all?
For countless individuals worldwide, mornings follow a familiar routine. They rise from bed, perhaps make their way to the bathroom, brush their teeth, and comb their hair, all leading up to the essential act of boiling the kettle.
Each of these activities marks the beginning of someone’s day, yet one of these tasks might prove more challenging than it ought to be.
Deeply rooted in British tradition lies the cherished ritual of enjoying a cup of tea, affectionately referred to as a cuppa, brew, sticking the kettle on, hot bev, or just tea. Accompanied by the age-old debate of which tea bags yield the finest brew, these terms all share a commonality: the essential act of boiling the kettle.
For some powerchair users, this in itself can be a hard task, defiantly harder than we at Quantum Rehab feel it should be.
Every day in the UK, an astonishing 100 million cups of tea are consumed on average, putting a significant demand on kettles nationwide.
But you might wonder, what does this have to do with us at Quantum Rehab? Well, all our powerchairs and products share a common objective: to improve and enrich the quality of life, regardless of one’s reliance on a powerchair.
TRU-Balance 4 with anterior tilt.
TRU-Balance 4 our latest innovation in power positioning systems, meticulously crafted to empower users with increased control and adaptability, enabling them to tackle life’s challenges with ease.
Users can now choose from up to eight personalised positions, seamlessly accessible through the chair’s memory function. No more adjustments needed; this system ensures the perfect positioning every time. Whether you prefer sequential or synchronised movement for each seat function, the choice is yours.
The power positioning features of TRU-Balance 4 extend even further. With this system, you can choose between 10, 20, or 30 degrees of anterior tilt, enabling you to lean forward comfortably in the chair. Making it easier to many of life’s tasks.
We would say making the ability to stick the kettle on an easy part of your morning once more.
TRU-Balance 4 requires the selection of power adjustable seat height, power anterior tilt, power posterior tilt, power recline, and a dual actuator power articulating foot platform. TRU-Balance 4 is available on the Stretto, Edge® 3, and 4Front® 2 power chairs. While that being the case it cannot be retro-fitted on older models.
The story of the Edge 3 Stretto pediatric powerchair
Although living with spinal muscular atrophy type 2 has its challenges, Sakina lives as independently as she can, thanks to her Edge 3 Power chair with iLevel technology. Recently, her independence reached a whole different level when Sakina received the ultra-narrow Stretto Power Chair with iLevel.
“The narrow base of the Stretto Power Wheelchair opened a whole new world for me,” Sakina said. “I can navigate through tight corners and even fit inside the pantry.”
Using her power chair at home
Sakina loves baking, so the narrow width of the Stretto allows her to access the ingredients she needs from all areas of the kitchen. From cake pops to banana bread, Sakina loves trying new recipes and making sweet treats.
In addition to the Stretto’s narrow width, Sakina loves her Quantum backup camera. Now, she can see all around her, instead of guessing and hoping for the best when she backs up. Sakina can reverse her power chair into an elevator without assistance. The backup camera also helps her stay one step ahead of her younger brother.
“I can see my little brother making silly faces at me behind my back. No more sneaking around for him!”
– Sakina Shamsi
Taking her power chair to school
In school, her Stretto manoeuvres through hallways and around desks easily. The positioning on her new power chair helps Sakina sit much straighter and the headrest ensures she doesn’t need a neck strap.
“I look so much straighter in my pictures and feel even more confident,” Sakina said.