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How To Customize A Desk Chair For A Parkinson's Patient?
Question: Desperately trying to customize a desk chair (wheelchair if only option) for elderly male with advanced Parkinson's and severe spinal stenosis. The sufferer is a writer by profession and needs to be strapped into a chair to sit upright in order to use his computer. 100% compos mentis but falls sideways in a chair. How can I find help?
Brief Answer:
Take help of physiotherapist & orthopedic surgeon
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. He will require with wheels support.
2. Flexion will be much easier than straight back. The chair should be adequately cushioned to support him and avoid any specific pressures at different locations. Pressure ulcer risk would be present if not done properly.
3. Design would be based on his activities. His most comfortable position, which means usually moderate flexion in back position is necessary. You can take help of a physiotherapist and an orthopedic surgeon to help in planning a chair. Discuss with chair designer to use appropriate flexible but strong materials.
4. Along with severe Parkinson, I am not sure, how much he can manage. Tremors could interfere in his typing. Software to support dictation or someone to type maybe helpful.
5. Risk of fall is too high and round the clock caretaker is necessary.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Take help of physiotherapist & orthopedic surgeon
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. He will require with wheels support.
2. Flexion will be much easier than straight back. The chair should be adequately cushioned to support him and avoid any specific pressures at different locations. Pressure ulcer risk would be present if not done properly.
3. Design would be based on his activities. His most comfortable position, which means usually moderate flexion in back position is necessary. You can take help of a physiotherapist and an orthopedic surgeon to help in planning a chair. Discuss with chair designer to use appropriate flexible but strong materials.
4. Along with severe Parkinson, I am not sure, how much he can manage. Tremors could interfere in his typing. Software to support dictation or someone to type maybe helpful.
5. Risk of fall is too high and round the clock caretaker is necessary.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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