What is 24 Hour Postural Management?
This is a programme of activity and controlled positioning which manages a child’s posture. It enables a child to be comfortable in a sitting, lying, standing or moving position. Children who are comfortable are more able to learn and carry out normal daily activities.
Programmes are specifically tailored to meet each child’s individual needs and may include special seating, wheelchairs, night-time support, standing supports, functional activities, active exercise, orthotics, surgical interventions and individual therapy programmes.
To be effective postural management is applied throughout the day and night. Your therapists will provide support and guidance to help you incorporate this into your daily routine.
Who Can Benefit from 24 Hour Postural Management?
Children with motor and neurological conditions, including Cerebal Palsy (CP), who are limited in their activity are at risk of developing postural problems which could include hip dislocation and/or spinal deformities. These in turn can lead to pain and discomfort as well as difficulties with breathing, digestion, eating, drinking and swallowing.
By using 24 hour postural management you can help prevent or reduce the impact of these difficulties. When introduced at an early age you can help to protect and maintain body shape by the use of careful positioning and by encouraging physical activity.
The links below provide more information, resources and contact details to Child Development Teams within NHS Grampian.
Resources and Contact Information
All children (and adults) benefit from considering their postural management. These are some of the areas we should consider.
Children with motor or neurological conditions may require specialist equipment to support their posture.
Parents and carers can download and use NHS Grampian’s free “Guide to 24 Hour Postural Management”.
For further information or support about Postural Management you can contact a member of the NHS Grampian Child Development Team.
