Collapsible Load Bearing Assistive Standing Device for Paraplegics

There are several health benefits to persons with spinal cord injuries and other mobility related disabilities achieved by standing and load bearing for a period of time, such as enhancing psychological well-being, maintaining vital organ capacity, and reducing abnormal muscle tone and spasticity [1]. Assistive standing devices for paraplegics are normally used while individuals are attending rehabilitation centers, as these devices are often impractical or undesirable for home use. Designs of standing structures for paraplegics that are currently available on the market often take up too much floor space in the home and are expensive, costing up to $2500. Therefore, in order to extend the health benefits of standing to paraplegics with limited floor space, budget, and/or a dislike of bulky medical devices in their home, it would be beneficial to have an inexpensive, aesthetically appealing, small-footprint option available for personal use.