Help and advice

During normal development, children stand before they can walk and this helps to develop the muscles and joints in their legs and hips. Many children with physical disabilities are unable to support their own weight through their legs independently. So, physiotherapists may use supportive standing frames to put disabled children of a similar age into weight bearing positions.¹

Standing is therefore often recommended as early as possible for children, to ensure they meet developmental milestones and keep performing as many activities as their peers. Whilst standing is a prerequisite for walking, standing is also an important position for children who will never be able to stand or walk independently.^{4 & 6}

There are many considerations to bear in mind when choosing a standing frame, and so they should only be used under the guidance of your child's physiotherapist who can advise on the most appropriate standing frame and on the best positions to use. They can also provide training on their correct use as well as reassessment as your child grows and/or their needs change.^{1 & 5}

Postural supports such as hip guides, upper body positioning devices, footplates and head supports can all be added to standing frames, but again, this should only be done so under guidance of your child's physiotherapist.⁴

Read our list of help and advice relating to standing frames, which includes considerations to bear in mind when choosing a standing frame and the benefits of standing.

View references and sources of further information ‣