Wheelchair seating and mobility is a technical and specialized area of Occupational Therapy. The therapist must have a good understanding of not only the physical and functional needs of their client but also of the current technology available, in order to choose the equipment that is best suited to their client’s needs. Wheelchairs and cushions available in the market are always changing and improving and mPower Therapy and Consulting keeps up to date with the newest products.
We, at mPower Therapy believe that a thorough seating assessment is a crucial part of determining which equipment is most suitable. From this assessment, we set goals with the client and a plan for how to meet these goals. Goals may include facilitation of mobility, improving positioning, preventing pressure sores, adaptations to temporary or permanent conditions, and maximizing function.
Interview: A seating assessment will begin with collecting basic background information which might include but not be limited to your medical diagnosis and any other related conditions, past or planned surgeries, problems with pain or pressure sores, and a discussion about your concerns and goals for a new wheelchair and/or seating system. Caregivers are involved with the assessment when appropriate. The assessment will also include discussions around your activities of daily living, your work or school, your leisure activities and the physical environments you use your wheelchair in such as home and work.
Physical Assessment: We will then do an assessment of your physical posture and function in your current wheelchair and make note of how straight (or crooked!) you sit and what your overall posture looks like. From there we will help you transfer to a mat table where we can assess the physical movements and range of motion you have from your head all the way down to your feet. We will then sit you up on the mat table with support, if needed. This helps us to understand how properly positioned supports can maximize your seated posture and therefore improve your function.
Report: We will develop a thorough written report of the evaluation, including recommendations and a follow-up plan that will include your personal goals. This report can be sent to your physician and/or your funding agency.
What is a wheelchair mobility assessment?
A wheelchair mobility assessment is when a therapist analyzes your ability to move the wheelchair safely, effectively and efficiently.
Manual Wheelchair: A manual wheelchair (non-powered) must be set up specifically for each individual person in terms of the way the wheels are positioned to make the wheelchair roll most efficiently. Power Wheelchair: A power wheelchair has many settings that can be individualized for the user in terms of speed, braking, turning and more. Also, there are different methods to drive a power wheelchair or scooter and the therapists can help to ensure this is set up ideally for the individual.
mPower Therapy and Consulting 