Wheelchair Positioning And Seating Modification Recommendations in Mumbai

Seating Assessment Occupational Therapy involves evaluating the client's posture and making changes to the client's wheelchair based on the needs and problems of the patient. Wheelchair Mobility Occupational Therapy can help to make the patient comfortable in their wheelchair by making some changes to it.

Recommendations for Proper Wheelchair Positioning And Seating Modification:

For Wheelchair-Bound, it’s extremely crucial that the wheelchair Positioning is comfortable and suited to the patient’s specific requirements. For example, if there is a loss of sensation, an air cushion is recommended to prevent skin sores. If the client has poor trunk control and cannot sit upright, the wheelchair would require a slightly inclined backrest with a lap belt and/ or upper trunk reinforcement, depending on the extent of the impairment.

A Wheelchair Therapist can make recommendations for wheelchair positioning and seating modification based on the specific needs of a client. For example, a drop seat with a posterior tilt is problematic for a client who has trouble reaching the brake levers and braking the chair. A forward-facing axle makes propelling the chair easier for a person with short stature. The OT can also recommend an accessory or two that can help the client stay in the chair. While sitting in a wheelchair, it is crucial to avoid any falls that may cause injury.

The therapist will also evaluate the client's posture. If the client is consistently using a wheeled mobility device, it is important to ensure that the wheelchair fits the patient properly. A client with a spinal cord injury should use a power wheelchair with a tilt-in-space feature to relieve pressure on the buttocks. The OT will measure the client's body for a new wheelchair and will make recommendations based on the measurements. The client should avoid using lateral trunk supports and should be free of bulky clothing.

A wheelchair can also be modified to prevent skin sores. The pelvis dictates the position of the head, trunk, and extremities. Small, incremental changes are ideal for the user as it allows them to adapt and the assessor to monitor progress. An OT may also need to provide a wheelchair cushion.

The therapist can recommend modifications to the wheelchair and other equipment, as long as the equipment is appropriate for the patient's condition. The clinician will also educate the patient on the proper use of the equipment. After the first fitting, the therapist may recommend periodic re-evaluations to ensure the wheelchair is appropriate for the patient.