Joyful moments in supported standing

Zarah was born in the Middle East, where she spent her first years with limited access to assistive devices. This made everyday participation challenging for her and her family. She is now eight years old and lives in Germany with her family.

Zahra has severe cerebral palsy and is classified at GMFCS Level V. She experiences significantly increased muscle tone, which can be triggered by sounds or sudden movements. Over time, contractures have developed in several joints, restricting her mobility. In the past, she suffered from severe pain due to dislocated hips, but after two hip surgeries, her parents happily explain that her pain has decreased substantially.

A solution focused on comfort and gradual progress

As part of her therapy, Zahra now participates in supported standing, which also includes working on standing in abduction. This is possible with the Addax standing frame, which allows up to 30° of individual abduction. Because Zahra has high tone in her adductor muscles and a history of hip pain, Wencke carefully increases the abduction angle step by step. How much Zahra can tolerate depends on her daily condition and the level of spasticity.

To enable Zahra to stand safely, the standing frame must offer individual adjustments to accommodate her contractures and bone structure. The Addax provides exactly that: parted foot supports that can be individually adjusted in height, depth, and angle, and knee supports with ball joints for optimal positioning despite limited knee extension. For her sensitive hip region, a ratchet belt without rigid support minimises pressure while ensuring secure positioning against the pelvic pad. At the chest, a firm and surrounding support belt gives Zahra the postural stability she needs to engage in activities like reading and colouring.

Standing takes a lot of energy for Zahra, so tilting the Addax and making sure she is not positioned fully upright allows her to save her energy. Zahra is enthusiastic about her standing sessions and shares a strong bond with Wencke. Together they enjoy reading stories and drawing colourful pictures.

Family moments that matter

At home, Zahra loves spending time with her 4-year-old sister, Athar. The two share a unique form of communication through sounds and facial expressions that only their family truly understands. When Athar comes home from kindergarten, she eagerly tells Zahra about her day, and their parents watch the sisters’ special connection with joy.

Family time often includes watching cartoons together – Tom and Jerry is a favourite – helping everyone learn German while laughing together. Music also plays a big role in their home. When Zahra’s favourite songs come on, she expresses her happiness by dancing in her own way, filling the room with smiles.

For Zahra and her family, participation is everything. With the right support, Zahra can experience meaningful activities, strengthen her body, and enjoy moments that bring joy and connection.