Patients with dystonia have unique healthcare needs due to their neurological condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which can cause repetitive and twisting movements or abnormal postures.
The choice of bed functions for patients with dystonia should prioritize their comfort, safety, and ease of movement while addressing the challenges associated with muscle spasms and potential pain. Here are some bed functions which we offer followed by considerations that may be beneficial for patients with dystonia:
- Low/Adjustable Bed Height: A low bed height reduces the risk of falls and minimizes injury if the patient experiences sudden muscle spasms or involuntary movements, this paired with side rails greatly reduces the risks of injury. This feature also makes it easier for patients to get in and out of bed independently, which long term can greatly reduce the costs of carers as well as offering that sense of independence which can sometimes be lost to such a condition.
- Full Profiling Options: Full profiling capabilities, including adjustable head and foot sections, provide flexibility for patients with dystonia to find comfortable positions for resting, reading, or engaging in activities. This is a great addition to any bed, especially for someone with Dystonia who might be spending long periods of time in the same bed/position with little to no adjustments.
- Soft and Comfortable Mattress: Patients with dystonia may experience muscle pain and discomfort. A soft and supportive mattress can help alleviate pressure on sensitive areas and improve overall comfort. Please click here to look through our choices of mattresses and please speak to one of our sales team for further information
- Tilt-in-Space Functionality: Tilt-in-space features allow the entire bed frame to tilt backward or forward. This function can be beneficial for:
- Pressure Sore Prevention: Regularly changing the patient’s position can help prevent pressure sores, this is vital for any care giver as you look for optimal solutions for your patient. Pressure sores can cause extreme discomfort especially among those who have little to no mobility. Using a bed which tilts both horizontally and vertically can massively assist in the reduction of such sores.
- Muscle Relaxation: Tilted positioning may provide relief from muscle contractions or spasms which can be an extreme relief for patients.
- Customisable Settings: Beds with customisable settings or memory presets make it easier for patients with dystonia to adjust the bed to their preferred positions for various activities.
- Battery Backup: In case of power outages, battery backup ensures that essential bed functions remain operational, maintaining patient safety and comfort.
It’s essential to involve healthcare professionals and caregivers in selecting the appropriate bed functions for patients with dystonia. Individual assessments, the specific type and severity of dystonia, and the patient’s unique needs and preferences should be considered to provide a supportive and comfortable environment that promotes their well-being and quality of life. Please speak to a member of our team with any enquiries; we’re here to help!
