Introduction to Wheelchair Seating and Positioning

Course overview

This course provides the occupational and physical therapy practitioner with a broad overview of the assessment and provision of wheelchair seating. This course is written at a basic-to-intermediate level for the occupational or physical therapist that has little or no experience in this specialized practice area. Many people require the use of a wheelchair for dependent or independent mobility, and each wheelchair provides some form of seating. Wheelchair seating directly affects a client's position which, in turn, affects function for all of that person's daily tasks. It is essential that occupational and physical therapists be able to competently participate as a member of the team in determining the optimal seating and wheeled mobility interventions for a particular client. Common diagnoses that a client using a wheelchair may have include cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophies. This course systematically reviews wheelchair seating considerations, beginning with assessment. A key part of seating assessment is the mat examination, which helps determine where and at what angles a client needs postural support for optimal alignment, pressure distribution and relief to prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Body positioning is critical; the body should be positioned to support the task that needs to be accomplished. Clients often must find both a position of rest and a position suitable for functional or task performance within the same seating system. The course explores available seating system categories and materials and describes specific seating challenges, including their causes, goals, and suggested interventions.