in a Standing Frame

    You never realize what something as simple as standing can do for you.  Of course, you never miss something till it is gone. So if you can stand, you don't think about the benefit it has for your body.  Not walking, not running just standing.
Here are some examples.  All are benefits for Jarrad as a para but some are ones that I (and you) need. 

Midway through his session.

•Prevention of contractures (the permanent shortening of muscles or joints that no amount of stretching can restore this means you won't be able to bend things like ankles, knees, and hips)
• Improvement of range of motion (spine, hips, knees and ankles)
•Reduction in spasticity (the tremors that will rack a body because it is trying to send a message to the brain if you are paralyzed)
•Prevention or reversal of osteoporosis and resultant hypercalciuria (elevation of calcium in the urine with is bad because it can cause voiding issues)
•Improvement of renal function, drainage of the urinary tract, and reduction in urinary calculium and in bowel function (ie - helps you go potty)
•Prevention of pressure ulcers through changing positions (again, bad as it is a hole in your skin to your BONE! BAD!)
•Normalization of respiratory function aka helps you to breathe
•Maintain or re-gain bone density
•Development & improvement of upper body strength & balance 
  Did you ever think about the fact that STANDING helps you go to the bathroom?  Or that it helps to maintain your ability to walk because you are stretching muscles and joints?  No, we just stand and complain when our feet hurt (although, now that I buy good shoes, not complaining about it so much).  
    When Jarrad was in outpatient therapy at Wake Med, his therapist had him up in a frame for 30 minutes of the 45 minute session.  That was how important it is.  We were really grateful that Vocational Rehab saw all the benefits of the standing frame to Jarrad's overall ability to work and health and paid for our frame. 
    I have to be honest though, while it is a good thing for Jarrad, I saw it was one more piece of equipment that I had to find room for in my house.  Happy to have it.  Dismayed at yet another "thing".  
    Until one of my friends dropped by.  
    One of my therapy friends.  
    Occupational Therapy.
    Now, most people look at this "thing" and ask what it is.  She looked at it and knew right away.  
   "Wow (or some other sound that indicated pleasant surprise)!  Is that Jarrad's standing frame?  It's beautiful!"  
     Made me laugh.  Because in my head I was saying - Yeah, another piece of equipment! But her simple and genuine response changed my attitude because she was seeing all the benefits  that it brought. 
     And it made me see it in a different light too.