.png)
How to Extend the Cub Abductor Range
Proper positioning is one of the most important aspects of pediatric seating. The Cub Flip-Down Abductor is designed to promote ideal femur alignment, help maintain lower extremity positioning, and support pelvic stability while remaining easy to remove or fold down for transfers. It is adjustable for height, depth, lateral position, and width, allowing clinicians to customize the setup for each individual user.
In this tutorial, you'll learn how to extend the abductor's adjustment range by repositioning its mounting mechanism. This simple adjustment provides additional flexibility when configuring the wheelchair for growth, seating changes, or specialized clinical positioning.
Why Extend the Abductor Range?
As a child's seating configuration changes, the standard abductor position may no longer provide the desired support.
Extending the adjustment range allows the abductor to be positioned further forward or backward to better accommodate:
Changes in seat depth
Growth of the user
Different lower extremity positioning needs
Individual clinical seating prescriptions
Because every seating system should be configured according to the recommendations of the prescribing therapist or wheelchair provider, this adjustment helps ensure the abductor continues to provide optimal positioning without compromising comfort.
Step 1 – Release the Abductor Mechanism
Begin by locating the quick-release mechanism behind the seat cushion.
Pull the release pin to unlock the abductor from its current position. This allows the entire assembly to slide freely out of its mounting track.
Video reference: 0:05–0:25
Step 2 – Remove the Abductor Assembly
Once unlocked, carefully lift the abductor upward and remove it from the mounting track.
Removing the assembly exposes the mounting system that controls the available adjustment range.
Video reference: 0:31–0:45
Step 3 – Reposition the Mounting Bracket
With the abductor removed, reposition the mounting bracket along the chair's base frame to create the desired extension.
Moving the bracket changes the available adjustment range, allowing the abductor to be positioned further forward or backward to better match the user's seating needs.
The Cub abductor is specifically designed to offer extensive adjustability. In addition to this range extension, it can also be adjusted for height, depth, width, and lateral position to accommodate a wide variety of clinical seating configurations.
Video reference: 0:46–1:13
Step 4 – Reinstall the Abductor
After repositioning the bracket, slide the abductor back into the mounting track.
Continue inserting it until the spring-loaded locking pin clicks securely into place.
Always verify that the mechanism is fully engaged before the wheelchair is used.
Video reference: 1:14–1:45
Step 5 – Verify the Adjustment
Before seating the user, inspect the completed adjustment.
Confirm that:
The abductor is fully locked into position.
There is no unwanted movement or play.
The desired depth has been achieved.
The support aligns properly with the user's clinical positioning goals.
A final stability check helps ensure both safety and consistent postural support.
Video reference: 1:46–2:00
Clinical Tips
1. Adjust according to the clinical prescription
The abductor should always be positioned according to the recommendations of the therapist or wheelchair provider. Its purpose is to support proper lower extremity alignment—not simply to fill available space. Individual diagnoses, muscle tone, range of motion, and seating objectives all influence the ideal position.
2. Confirm the locking mechanism after every adjustment
Any time the abductor is removed or repositioned, ensure the spring-loaded pin has fully engaged before use. A secure lock is essential for maintaining consistent positioning during daily activities.
3. Reassess as the user grows
As seat depth or other seating components are adjusted over time, revisit the abductor position to ensure it continues providing effective support. The Cub seating system is designed with extensive adjustability to accommodate growth and changing clinical needs.
4. Remember the abductor is a positioning support—not a restraint
The Cub User Manual specifies that the abductor is intended to separate the knees and promote positioning. It should never be used as a restraint, and there should always be an open space between the groin and the abductor.
Watch the Tutorial
Need a visual walkthrough?
Watch our How to Extend the Cub Abductor Range video for a complete demonstration of the adjustment process, including how to remove the abductor, reposition the mounting bracket, and securely reinstall the assembly for optimal clinical positioning.
Comments