Postural control in sitting the SAM system: evaluation of use over three years.

The most appropriate posture in which to support the person with severe disability and diverse symptoms as a result of complex pathology remains more a matter of opinion than the result of research. This work reviews some of the studies which have attempted to identify definitive criteria for seating in such cases. Factors relating to measurement and conditions which threaten to invalidate the results of research in this field are highlighted. A description of the Seating and Mobility (SAM) system is given, together with a report of the monitoring of nine children with cerebral palsy using the system for a period of three years. The difficulties inherent in this work are noted and questions for future considerations are raised.