Factors Affecting Prescription and Implementation of Standing-Frame Programs by School-Based Physical Therapists for Children with Impaired Mobility

In Brief Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate factors considered in the prescription and implementation of standing-frame programs by school-based physical therapists. Methods: A 20-item survey was mailed to 500 members of the APTA Pediatric Section and School-Based Special Interest Group. Survey questions addressed standing-frame program prescription and perceived benefits. Results: Response rate was 77.2%. A majority of respondents rated ambulatory status for the prescription of standing-frame programs and a child’s specific needs in the selection of a specific standing frame as very important. Respondents identified multiple benefits with pressure relief rated very important most frequently. More than 50% of respondents indicated social and educational benefits are very important. A majority of respondents prescribed standing-frame programs for 30–45 minutes daily. Conclusions: Variation does exist, but the majority of school-based physical therapists agree on several key factors in the prescription and implementation of standing-frame programs. This report of a survey demonstrates the way in which clinicians are using standing frames in their school based practice. The majority are using standing frames for pressure relief. Ambulatory status was the most important factor in deciding to prescribe a standing frame for a child with impaired mobility.