RESNA and CTF position on the application of supported standing devices: Current state of the literature

Abstract

Supported standing devices are often used to maintain a standing position by people with difficulty or inability to ambulate or stand for a period of time. Supported standing programs are first implemented by healthcare professionals with goals to impact health and function. This paper intends to update previous position on wheelchair standing devices by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Association of North America, and was written in conjunction with the Clinician Task Force. The current paper expands the previous focus on wheelchair standing devices to all types of supported standing devices. A scoping review methodology found 42 studies examining outcomes of supported standing programs in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health framework in five areas of body functions, seven areas of activities and participation, and one body structure. Patterns in outcomes related to standing device type, as dynamic, or mobile, standing devices contributed to independent daily activity performance and static standing devices impacted neuromuscular capacity. Studies support engaging consistently in supported standing from nine months of age, or as soon after onset of ambulatory disability as possible, to maximize benefits. Clinical reasoning is required to apply the information in this document to unique individual cases.

Keywords: clinical decision making; scoping review; standers; standing program; supported standing device.