Standing Frames

Introduction

A man with short brown hair and glasses, wearing a gray T-shirt, speaks in front of a plain blue-gray background. Text below reads:

Benefits of a standing frame

  • Helps keep bones and joints healthy
  • Makes your heart stronger
  • Improves digestion and bladder /bowel function
  • Keeps your body flexible
  • Shifts your weight to prevent pressure sores
  • Strengthens muscles that are currently active

Selecting a standing frame

There are many brands and models of standing frames available. Consult with your healthcare provider on which type of frame and components are right for your condition.

When selecting a standing frame size, think about your height and how deep the seat needs to be. If you know the depth of your wheelchair cushion, aim for something similar.

EasyStand

  • Evolv Medium – Approximate Height Range 4’0″ – 5’6″ and up to 200 lbs. Seat Depth Range: 14″-19″
  • Evolv Large – Approximate Height Range 5’0″ – 6’2” and up to 280 lbs. Seat Depth Range: 18″-23″
  • Evolv XT – Approximate Height Range 6’0″ – 6’10” and up to 350 lbs. Seat Depth Range: 19″-24″
  • StrapStand – Approximate Height Range 5’0″ – 6’5” and up to 350 lbs.

Prime Engineering

  • Symmetry Youth – Approximate Height Range 3’6″ – 5’6″ and up to 200 lbs.
  • Symmetry – Approximate Height Range 5’0″ – 6’5″ and up to 275 lbs.
  • GrandStand III – Approximate Height Range 4’6″ – 6’5″ and up to 250 lbs.

Disclaimer: Shepherd Center does not endorse or promote any particular brand of standing frame. The information shared on this page is for informational purposes only.

Paying for a standing frame

Your insurance might cover a standing frame with a prescription—but not always. If it doesn’t, there are other ways to get one. For example, groups like FODAC offer donated medical equipment, and you may qualify for grants like the Georgia Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund. You can find more helpful resources on the MyShepherdConnection Resource list.

Safety tips

Before using a standing frame, talk to your doctor or physical therapist to make sure it’s safe for you. This is especially important if you have low blood pressure when changing positions (called orthostatic hypotension) or if you have a condition that impacts your bone strength or joint health.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general guidance on using a standing frame and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for recommendations specific to your condition.

Standing frame videos

The following videos demonstrate how to use a standing frame safely.

What you’ll learn

  • How to transfer into a standing frame using a manual lift, slide board, or depression
  • How to transfer to a strap-style stander
  • How to set the ankle angle and lower leg length
  • How to set the seat depth and back angle
  • How to set the knee pad height and depth
  • How to set the chest pad and tray table height and depth
  • How to make adjustments while using the standing frame
  • Activities and exercises you can do in the standing frame to stay healthy and strong

Transfer using a manual lift

This video demonstrates how to transfer into a standing frame using a manual lift.

A man wearing a cap sits on a chair with a support sling, while another man assists him in a bright rehabilitation room focused on exercise and wellness after traumatic injury, with various equipment and wheelchairs visible.

Transfer using a slide board or depression

This video demonstrates how to transfer into a standing frame using a slide board or depression technique.

A man in a gray t-shirt helps another man wearing a blue shirt and cap transfer from a motorized wheelchair to a chair in a rehabilitation center with equipment in the background.

Transfer to strap style stander

This video demonstrates how to transfer into a strap style stander.

A man in a blue shirt and cap uses a standing frame next to a power wheelchair, assisted by another person in a bright, modern therapy room with exercise equipment in the background.

Setting the ankle angle and lower leg length

This video demonstrates how to set the ankle angle and lower leg length.

A man in a gray shirt adjusts the foot placement of another person seated in a standing frame in a clinical setting. There are blue chairs and anatomical models in the background.

Setting the seat depth and back angle

This video demonstrates how to set the seat depth and back angle.

A man in gray sweatpants and a blue shirt sits in a standing frame while another man crouches beside him, making adjustments to the frame in a rehabilitation setting.

Setting the knee pad height and depth

This video demonstrates how to set the knee pad height and depth.

A person sitting in a wheelchair places their lower leg into a padded knee brace as another person adjusts the device for physical therapy or rehabilitation purposes in a clinical setting.

Setting the chest pad and tray table height and depth

This video demonstrates how to set the chest pad and tray table height and depth.

A man in a gray t-shirt adjusts a large black chest pad and tray table for a man seated in a standing frame, who is wearing a blue long-sleeve shirt and gray sweatpants, in a brightly lit therapy room with shelves and equipment in the background.

Common adjustments during use

Occasionally, the standing frame may need to be adjusted during use. It’s generally easier for someone outside the frame to make these changes because they can reach the adjustment points better. This video demonstrates the common adjustments that can be made while using the standing frame.

A man uses a standing frame with support while another man assists him in a bright physical therapy room with anatomical models and exercise equipment in the background.

Common activities and exercises performed in a standing frame

This video demonstrates common activities and exercises you can do in the standing frame. Always consult with your doctor or physical therapist first to be sure that the exercises are safe and helpful for you.

Two men are in a physical therapy setting; one stands while holding a red resistance band, the other, supported by a standing frame, pulls the resistance band. Therapy equipment and a skeleton model are in the background.
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