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What is 24-hour postural care?
 

An asymmetrical body and stable posture are foundations for health and will support success in traditional therapies and meaningful activities. The majority of individuals are born with symmetrical bodies and are able to assume a variety of different positions throughout the day and night. It is easy to take this for granted – but for people with motor impairments that limit their movement repertoire, it is different. When such a person spends many hours without moving easily and often into different positions, soft tissues shorten, ligaments stretch and gravity affects the person’s body so that slowly and gradually it becomes distorted. Eventually the body changes shape and no longer bounces back to where it started. 

 

Children and adults using wheelchairs or other mobility devices are especially vulnerable to the force of gravity because their variety of positions is typically limited. Children are at special risk during growth spurts; poor alignment in day and night positions can lead to long-term problems like scoliosis and joint dislocations.

 

24-hour postural care is a gentle, non-invasive, inexpensive way to promote health and quality of life for people with motor impairments. It can protect the shape of a person’s body, help