Sting and evaluation of a prototype of a mobility trainer: Verticalizer for children (2 to 7 years) weighing up to 20 kg

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The prototype of mobility trainer-verticalizer (hereinafter – PMTV) is designed to develop existing movements caused by individual physical conditions and disease damage, as close as possible to the natural biomechanics of a healthy person. The aim is to make the equipment comfortable, simple, suitable for everyday use in a variety of environments, from medical institutions to the patient’s home, and customizable according to the anthropometric data of the growing child. OBJECTIVE: To investigate and evaluate the technical characteristics and feasibility of a PMTV for children (2 to 7 years) weighing up to 20 kg. METHODS: Empirical research method (anthropometric measurements); quantitative research method (survey); qualitative research method (interviews). RESULTS: The PMTV is suitable for use with children aged 2 to 7 years, although children with various disabilities may have heights, weights and other anthropometric data that fall far below or exceed the healthy standard. The exercise with the use of a PMTV had a positive effect on muscle tone, with a decrease in muscle tone in both the upper and lower limbs. An increased range of motion (hereinafter – ROM) of shoulder flexion and abduction was observed. In the lower limb, there was an improvement in the ROM of hip internal and external rotation and the flexion and extension of knee. CONCLUSION: Physiotherapy using PMTV had a positive effect on the subject’s limb volume and muscle tone, a positive effect on the subject’s passive ROM, and a positive effect on the subject’s gross motor function.