Some mobility assistive products must be provided by services with specialised training and equipment. These products are not included in TAP.
Read through the following sections to learn about common mobility assistive products that are not included in TAP.
Information about training courses and resources on how to provide some of these products can be found at the end of this module.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs provide wheeled mobility and seating support for a person who cannot walk or has a lot of difficulty walking.
Different types of wheelchairs suit different people’s needs.
Wheelchairs must always be provided with a cushion.
For more information about wheelchairs and how to provide them, refer to the WHO Wheelchair Service Training Package.
Lower limb prostheses
A lower limb prosthesis replaces a missing part of a person’s foot or leg.
A prosthesis must always be made to fit each person by a qualified prosthetist.
Not everyone is able to use a prosthesis. A prosthetist will work with each person to assess whether they are able to use a prosthesis.
People who use a prosthesis often also use other mobility assistive products.
Remember Asif?
Asif has a right below knee amputation. He uses a below the knee prosthesis to walk, and two walking sticks for extra balance.
When Asif is not using his prosthesis, he uses elbow crutches to move around.
Lower limb orthoses
A lower limb orthosis is a brace or splint that supports a person’s foot or leg. It can help to reduce pain, assist with moving, or stop unwanted movement.
Different types of lower limb orthoses suit different people’s needs. Orthosis are provided through a rehabilitation or prosthetic and orthotic service.
Posterior walking frames
Posterior walking frames support children with cerebral palsy to walk. They are often used with other assistive products such as ankle foot orthoses.
Remember Aleisha?
Aleisha has cerebral palsy and has difficulty coordinating and controlling her movements. She uses a posterior walker and ankle foot orthoses to help her walk.
Standing frames and lying supports
Standing frames and lying supports help to prevent health complications in children and adults who have difficulty lying and standing safely without support.
Standing frames and lying supports would usually be provided as part of a person’s overall rehabilitation care.
You have completed Lesson two!