An important consideration when ordering a pediatric wheelchair is the adjustability to accommodate growth. One must also consider future growth or anticipated changes in function over time, as well as the family's ability to transport the chair. The type of wheelchair prescribed will depend on the child's underlying diagnosis, cognition, vision, motor skills such as head and trunk control, strength and endurance of upper limbs, musculoskeletal deformities, if present, and medical comorbidities. Children as young as age 2 yr can self-propel a manual wheelchair and operate a power wheelchair. ![]() The goal is to provide a wheelchair that will allow the child to move independently about the environment, including home, school, and the community. Children with spinal cord injuries, spina bifida, neuromuscular diseases, or cerebral palsy may benefit from the use of a wheelchair. Wheelchairs should be considered as a means of mobility when ambulation is not possible or is difficult outside of the home setting. ![]() Kliegman MD, in Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 2020 Wheelchair
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