The Health Benefits of Standing Wheelchairs
Many people who can stand do not understand the excellent benefits of being able to do so, such as independence and the naturally occurring health benefits of changing posture.
When someone must sit in one position for an extreme amount of time, health problems will naturally occur. Physicians have been documenting the benefits of standing devices for years through medical publications.
Thanks to the Stand Up Wheelchairs, even people with spinal cord injuries can reap the health benefits of standing.
Physical Benefits of Standing Wheelchairs
Urinary Health – Urinary Tract Infections are common among people who are in wheelchairs. However, studies have shown that using a standing device or stand-up wheelchair can significantly decrease urinary tract infections.
Circulation – Changing posture helps blood circulation.
sitting in one position causes the blood to stagnate and reduces circulation.
Spasticity – Staying in one position, such as sitting, can cause muscle spasticity. Changing posture helps relax the muscles and reduce spasticity.
Bowel Function – A common complaint among wheelchair users is poor bowel function. However, according to numerous studies, standing exercises can significantly improve bowel function. Even when using a standing wheelchair, these results are the same.
Pressure Sores – Pressure sores occur from constant pressure on one body area. Standing up in a wheelchair helps distribute your weight and improve the healing of bed sores.
Contractures – Sitting for extended periods may cause the joints and muscles to stiffen. Standing allows the muscles to get stretched and exercised, decreasing the stiffness you experience in joints and muscles.
Bone Density – Some evidence shows that standing wheelchairs may increase bone density.
Psychological Benefits of Standing Wheelchairs
Independence – Standing is the foundation of reclaiming back some freedom. Examples include reaching cupboards, changing light bulbs, and looking into a mirror at a regular level.
Increased cognition – Standing wheelchairs may help with specific cognitive tasks like memory and focus.
Fatigue – Sitting or lying down for too long is a known cause of fatigue. Muscles may atrophy and quickly tire. Standing up helps exercise these muscles and reduce fatigue.
Depression – A lack of control over certain situations often causes depression. So, it is no wonder why people in a wheelchair with limitations may suffer from depression.
However, gaining the ability to stand, even with assistance, helps reclaim a certain amount of control and helps reduce depression.
Well-being – is increased by using a standing wheelchair. You can be on “the same level” when communicating with others. You can also make eye contact, pose for photographs, hug, stand up, and more.