The sidelyer provides support between underarms and hips. The child s bottom leg is straight in the sidelyer. The child s breathing is easy and even, labored, indicating no internal respiratory distress. A shoulder that is held up and forward, for example, can inhibit breathing. These are basic approaches to sidelying.
Different disabilities require different sidelying positioning.
Therefore, for the safest use of such positions, check with your PT or OT to identify positions and the proper equipment to sustain them. Equipment and support Specialized equipment and supports help to maintain and support positions. The point of the seat belt is support, not restraint. It secures level positioning of the pelvis in the seat, providing the basis for postural stability. If the belt is positioned across the abdomen, it is not only uncomfortable.