Getting Around

Because of their lack of control over muscle movement and motor control, individuals with Cerebral Palsy might have trouble getting around. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 41% of children with Cerebral Palsy need help walking, and 31% use wheelchairs to get around. Their level of need depends on the type of Cerebral Palsy and the severity. Each student will have their own individual needs, and the type of technology they will benefit from will depend on their unique needs. Assistive technology helps students get around with more coordination and independence.

Some types of assistive technology to help with movement:

Walker – a walker could benefit a student who is able to walk, but might have uncoordinated movement. There are basic walkers, which start at around $50, and more advanced walkers, which can be as much as $3000.

Traditional Folding Wheelchair – If individuals have control over their hands, they can use a traditional wheelchair that is powered by someone pushing it or using are movement to propel. This type of wheelchair is most financially affordable, around $100 to start.

Electric Wheelchair – If individual’s do not have good control over their arms, an electric wheelchair might be best. There are a wide range of electric wheelchairs, ranging from more simple to very advanced depending on the needs of the student. These wheelchairs range from $700 to $5000.

Therapeutic Tricycles – Assistive tricycles are another way students can move with more independence. These tricycles cost about $1000 if bought new.

Trexo Robotic Walker – a really cool new transportation method, designed by an engineer whose nephew was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. This device attaches robot legs to the own child’s legs, and moves for them. This is great because it allows the child to be upright and move their muscles, which is very important for individual’s with Cerebral Palsy. The Trexo acts like a therapy session, moving the muscles in the legs for the child and gaining strength in the legs.

To learn more about this new device, visit the Trexo website at: https://trexorobotics.com/