How to Buy a Stroller for Special Needs?

Pediatric, medical strollers, or child wheelchairs, are mobile aids designed for and used by children. Children require the use of a wheelchair for many different reasons; some may have suffered head injuries, some have muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy, some are amputees, and others only have occasional use of their wheelchairs in lieu of a walking device or crutches. With a special needs stroller, it can be easier for you to go out with your child. If you are confused by the number of choices, look below for things to keep in mind when choosing the best and most comfortable stroller for your child. 

1. Light and Compact 

The stroller should be light and compact, have a light frame, and be easy to fold, making it easier to carry and store. A lightweight stroller reduces the strain on the caregiver and allows them to wheel it for a longer time period.

2. Size 

The primary focus when choosing a stroller for your special child must be its size. Pay special attention to factors like the depth and width of the seat, height of the chair, and maximum load capacity of the stroller. Choose the one that benefits the child’s optimal posture, ensuring safety and providing comfort to your child. Your child’s safety is your priority, so look for safety belts that protect the child from slipping out of the stroller. 

3. Additional features

A special needs stroller must have some additional features like an adjustment system. The ability to adjust the seat, footrest, backrest, and depth of the seat is necessary for a comfortable ride. Additionally, the medical stroller you choose should be able to adjust as the child grows and the position of the seat relative to the length of the travel to provide comfort for both the child and the parent. 

4. Support system

When buying a stroller for your special child, check if the stroller offers extra support, as your disabled child needs additional help to maintain a sitting posture. Most special needs strollers from Thomashilfen have an adjustable seat and back angle to support the upper body posture of your child, along with the limited upper body strength and trunk stability. Some strollers have footrests that swing and whose height can be adjusted according to your child’s comfort. 

The Bottom Line 

A special needs stroller is meant for children with a variety of needs from moderate to complex positioning. It is quite essential to consult a physiotherapist when choosing a stroller that meets the needs of your child. Consider all the above factors while selecting a stroller for your special child. Of course, you can add accessories like feet support, trunk, and pelvis later on, but why not choose the one with all of this.