Case studies
Positioning in lying
Positioning describes the posture or position of your child's body that best enables them to achieve everyday activities such as eating, playing and sleeping. As some children with a disability may be unable to change or maintain their own position, positioning equipment is often needed to ensure they experience a variety of different positions every day.1 & 5
The equipment included here is for use with your child whilst they are lying down. Many items can be used to position your child during play, whilst other items are used for therapy or during sleep. Lying equipment may often be used in combination with seating and standing equipment, orthoses and exercise.2 & 3
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Help and advice
As every child who needs this equipment will have unique and often complex needs, it should only be used under the guidance of an occupational therapist or physiotherapist. Many suppliers will visit you at home with your therapist to enable your child to try the equipment. If possible, see if you can arrange a short-term trial beyond the length of this visit to ensure it meets your child's needs.2-5
Read about the many factors to consider before using positioning in lying equipment.
Good positioning can:1, 3-4 & 6
- Limit tiredness by providing support;
- Prevent muscle tightness and joint problems (e.g. subluxation - partial dislocation);
- Promote comfort and reduce pain;
- Improve concentration and learning;
- Improve breathing, digestion, eating and drinking;
- Challenge your child to learn new skills.
- Improve the quality of your child's sleep.
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