SHERPA

SHERPA is our largest and most versatile model of a modular wheelchair and, like the seat shell chassis, is characterized by its maximum range of adjustment and customization options to suit the user and their individual needs. A maximum load capacity of 134 kg also allows for the transport of extensive accessories or life-sustaining medical systems for the child.

In addition to various backrest systems with different pivot point options, seat widths ranging from 36 cm to 48 cm in 4cm steps can be configured, as well as four different drive wheel sizes (12“/16”/22“/24”). The seat base also offers sufficient space for the proper installation of a seat shell or separate padding.

A special feature is the roller-supported center-of-gravity tilt of the seat unit in the range of -7° to +45° and the independent backrest angle adjustment from 80° to 123°. This enables many different positioning options without requiring significant effort.

Depending on the clinical condition, the tilt function is an indispensable feature, both for therapeutic interventions and for everyday use.

Children who are unable to position themselves sufficiently independently require the special support of the variable seat unit. The seating position not only influences bodily functions and structures but also the user’s activity and participation.

It is essential to note here:

• The switch between the three physiological seating variations - active, neutral, and passive seating positions - can be achieved through the mechanism, ensuring a broad distribution of body weight pressure while simultaneously preventing pressure ulcers.
• Furthermore, this constant variation results in the loading and unloading of all muscle groups. This regulation of muscle tone can, on the one hand, prevent spasms and, on the other, activate weak muscle groups. For example, a neutral or slightly negative seating angle emphasizes the dorsal (back) muscle chains, whereas a positive seating angle or a strongly tilted position tends to engage the ventral (abdominal) muscles.
• A seating angle of >90° can have a positive effect on leg extension spasticity.
• A seating angle of <90°, on the other hand, tends to have a positive effect on a general extension pattern of the trunk.
• A negative seat tilt facilitates transfers and can thus reduce spasms.
• A change in spatial position stimulates the cardiovascular system and metabolism and enhances perception by altering the field of vision.
• By adjusting the pelvic angle and thereby stimulating the trunk muscles, the spine can be stabilized, helping to prevent or at least support cases of scoliosis.
• The needs-based addition of lateral supports or harnesses promotes a physiologically and anatomically correct sitting position. The trunk stability achieved through this leads to optimal development of the child’s hand-eye coordination and the acquisition of physiological movement patterns in the upper extremities.