Week 7: Seating, Positioning and Wheelchair Mobility

What parts of the body should be assessed during a wheelchair seating screen?

Head, neck, trunk, pelvis, hips, knees, ankles, feet, upper extremities, and skin integrity

Why is the pelvis considered a key area during wheelchair seating assessment?

It serves as the foundation for posture and alignment while sitting

What pelvic movement involves the top of the pelvis rotating forward?

Anterior pelvic tilt

What pelvic movement involves the top of the pelvis rotating backward?

Posterior pelvic tilt

What other pelvic positions may be examined during a wheelchair assessment?

Pelvic obliquity and pelvic rotation

Why is a mat examination performed during a wheelchair assessment?

To determine flexibility, range of motion, posture, and whether positioning abnormalities are fixed or flexible

Can a comprehensive wheelchair assessment be completed without a mat examination?

No, the mat examination provides important information that cannot be obtained while seated

Why is positioning important in wheelchair seating?

It promotes comfort, function, safety, posture, and prevention of secondary complications

How can proper wheelchair positioning affect occupational performance?

It can improve participation, access to activities, and functional abilities

Why is skin integrity an important consideration during wheelchair assessment?

Prolonged pressure can lead to skin breakdown and pressure injuries

Why are individuals who use wheelchairs at increased risk for pressure injuries?

They may have prolonged sitting, decreased mobility, or impaired sensation

How often should pressure relief be performed to maintain skin integrity?

Approximately every 15-30 minutes, depending on individual needs and recommendations

What is a pressure relief technique?

A method used to redistribute pressure and reduce the risk of skin breakdown

What is the primary purpose of pressure mapping?

To identify areas of high pressure while sitting

How can pressure mapping assist in wheelchair recommendations?

It helps determine appropriate seating and pressure-relieving equipment

What is a manual wheelchair?

A wheelchair propelled by the user or caregiver without motorized assistance

When is a manual wheelchair typically appropriate?

When the user has sufficient strength, endurance, and mobility to propel it

What is a power-assist wheelchair?

A manual wheelchair with motorized assistance to reduce propulsion effort

When is a power-assist wheelchair commonly recommended?

When a user can self-propel but experiences fatigue, pain, or limited endurance

What is a power wheelchair?

A motorized wheelchair controlled through a drive system such as a joystick

When is a power wheelchair typically recommended?

When a user cannot independently propel a manual wheelchair

Who may be involved in a wheelchair assessment?

Occupational therapists, physical therapists, physicians, ATPs (Assistive Technology Professionals), suppliers, caregivers, and the client

What is the role of the client during a wheelchair assessment?

To provide information about goals, needs, routines, and preferences

What are common goals of seating and positioning?

Comfort, posture, function, pressure management, safety, and participation

Can seating and positioning interventions improve function?

Yes, improved alignment and support can enhance mobility, endurance, and participation

Why is the home environment important when recommending a wheelchair?

Environmental barriers may affect wheelchair accessibility and use

What environmental factors should be considered during wheelchair recommendations?

Doorway widths, ramps, flooring surfaces, room layout, and transportation needs

What information is commonly included on a wheelchair assessment form?

Medical history, diagnosis, posture, skin integrity, mobility status, measurements, goals, and environmental considerations

Why are wheelchair measurements important?

They ensure proper fit, support, safety, and function

What can occur if a wheelchair is too wide or too narrow?

Poor positioning, discomfort, reduced function, and increased risk of skin breakdown

Which pelvic position is commonly associated with slouched sitting?

Posterior pelvic tilt

What are risks associated with posterior pelvic tilt in a wheelchair?

Poor posture, reduced function, increased pressure, skin breakdown, and discomfort

How can poor seating and positioning affect daily occupations?

It can decrease independence, participation, comfort, and safety

What is the overall goal of wheelchair seating and positioning evaluation?

To match the individual's needs, body structure, environment, and functional goals with appropriate equipment and positioning strategies