1. Wheelchair Mobility

2. Variety of WC are available (see page 147)

5. Purpose of WC
Can be described as an orthotic mobility device b/c it can correct and straighten a deformity
Can be compared to a brace that increases or maintains a patient’s level of function
Can provide adequate support to allow the patient max function

6. A PT may recommend a WC after gather data on the initial eval.
This decision is based on patient’s ROM, muscular tone, motor control, stability, balance, coordination, ability of pt. to maintain upright posture and patient comfort.
PT will also consider the desired wheelchair function, need to transport chair and funding sources.

7. The following patient info must also be taken into consideration:
Patient size
Weight & stature
Functional limitations
Functional abilities
Cognitive status
Psychosocial status
Expected use of WC
Patient prognosis

8. Prescribing a WC is usually collaborative effort of the healthcare team:
PT makes recommendation
MD writes Rx
PTA/PT take measurements
MSW and family determine funding sources
PT/PTA instruct family & patient with use and care for WC

9. Patient should be measured and fitted for WC.
Measurements are required for the following:
Thigh length
Leg Length
Distance from the seat to lower scapula, midscapula, and shoulder
Distance from hanging elbow to the seat surface
Width across the hips, shoulders, and from outside of knee to outside of opposite knee
These procedures will be covered in lab (pp )

10. Goals of proper WC seating and positioning:
Prevention of deformities and pressure ulcers
Normalization of tone
Promotion of function
Optimization of Respiratory function
Proper body alignment
Increased sitting comfort and tolerance

11. Wheelchair Components (pp 136-147)

12. A WC has 2 main components: Postural support system
seat
back
armrests
leg rests
footrests

13. 2. Wheeled mobility base
frame
caster wheels
drive wheels
tires
brakes

15. Push handle bracket tubes

16. Back rest

17. Arm Rests

18. Tires

19. Push Rim

20. Spokes

21. Frame

22. Locks

23. Swing away release lever

24. Caster Plate and Wheels

25. Seat

26. Swing away foot rest

27. Cross braces

28. Foot rest

29. Pictures in the previous slides were retrieved from http://www

30. Wheelchair Measurements

31. Factors to consider when measuring a patient for a WC:
WC size should be proportional to the patient’s size
Patients personal needs including environment
Take measurements with patient on a firm surface while in supine or lying

32. Seat Width standard adult WC = 18 inches
narrow or junior WC = 16 inches
Extra wide = 22 inches

33. SEAT DEPTH
16 inches

34. Footrests
2 inches from floor

35. Wheelchair Training
Wheelchair Training = patient instruction and practice with WC mobility, WC safety and WC maintenance.

36. Documentation