Clinical Seating for Huntington's

Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder characterised by progressive deterioration of physical, cognitive and emotional functions. It is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene, leading to accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain.

Symptoms often start in mid-adulthood, between 35-50 years of age. These begin with subtle motor issues like involuntary movements and eventually evolve into severe motor dysfunction, emotional disturbance and cognitive decline.

There is currently no cure for HD. Treatment focuses on symptom management and support, which can have a profound impact on individuals, their families and carers.

Huntington’s Disease is a complex condition with a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms can vary widely among individuals with HD and will tend to worsen over time as the disease progresses. Early diagnoses and symptom management are crucial in providing the best possible care for individuals affected with HD.

• Motor Symptoms: These often appear first and include involuntary jerky movement (chorea), muscle rigidity, balance and coordination problems, and abnormal eye movements.
• Cognitive Symptoms: Cognitive decline is common in HD, leading to memory impairment, difficulties with decision making and problem solving, and reduced ability to plan and organise tasks.
• Psychiatric Symptoms: HD can lead to emotional disturbances including mood swings, depression, irritability, poor impulse control, and social withdrawal. Some individuals may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviours or psychosis in the later stages.
• Physical Symptoms: Swallowing difficulties may arise, leading to weight loss and malnutrition. Speaking may also become challenging, impacting communication.

Huntington’s Disease can significantly impact seating and the comfort and safety of individuals with the condition.

Chorea, or involuntary jerking movements, can make sitting in a regular chair challenging and uncomfortable, while muscle rigidity can make it difficult for individuals with HD to change position or find a comfortable posture.

Issues with balance, posture and coordination can increase the risk of falls and sliding within regular chairs. This can result in discomfort and potential pressure sores from prolonged periods of sitting.

Over time, individuals with HD may experience reduced mobility, which can affect their ability to transfer in and out of a chair independently.

Seating Matters chairs offer support, comfort and adjustability, with features specifically designed for individuals with Huntington’s Disease.

Benefits of our tailored seating solutions include:

• Reducing risk of falls and sliding, notably as a result of involuntary muscle movements
• Helping the individual maintain an upright and balanced seating position
• Reducing risk of choking, as a result of proper seating and positioning for feeding
• Improving comfort and reducing pain associated with HD
• Preventing pressure sores that can arise from prolonged sitting
• Promoting independence, by enabling the patient to sit, stand and move with increased autonomy
• Reducing the physical strain on caregivers and family members who are supporting patients with HD.

The first step is to Book a Free Seating Assessment, or request this from the patient’s occupational therapist. 

This personal approach involves testing the range of motion of a patient’s joints, understanding their specific cognitive, behavioural and psychological symptoms, and assessing the standards and impact of their current bed or chair.

On the basis of this assessment and any personal goals of the patient, their family and their care team, a specific Seating Matters chair will be recommended to meet their needs.

Here are a few other tips to remember when seating a patient with Huntington’s Disease

• Make sure the patient is comfortable and ask for feedback where possible.
• Opt for adjustable seating, focusing on deep and safe positioning of the patient to reduce sliding and risk of injury.
• Ensure the chair provides adequate levels of pressure management, plus tilt in space and back angle recline to help avoid pressure injuries.
• Consider the chair’s materials and fabrics. All Seating Matters chairs are covered with Dartex material, which is multi-stretch, breathable and durable, to reduce moisture, increase circulation, and combat the effects of friction.

Yes, our chairs are available to trial.

The first step is to organise a Free Seating Assessment, conducted by a clinically trained Seating Matters Specialist. This Assessment takes approximately 60 minutes and can be completed at home or hospital.

Based on this Assessment, the most suitable Seating Matters chair will be provided for the patient to trial. This will be adjusted to fit them correctly, taking into consideration things like seat depth, seat width and chair height. Postural supports and further customisations can also be added.