Pre-Symposium Courses at European Seating Symposium 2007
Ultralight / Sports Manual Wheelchairs: Best Clinical Practice for Optimal Client Outcomes
Presented by Kendra Betz, MSPT, ATP
Mark Schmeler, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Length - All day
Level - Intermediate
Course description
A wheelchair should “fit like a glove” with a highly customized configuration that provides optimized comfort, function and performance. The ultralight/sports wheelchairs, when properly selected and configured, are the lightest wheelchairs available that best meet individual postural support and mobility needs. Additionally, the ultralight/sports chairs are responsive, efficient and durable. As a result, wheelchair users of all ages can be maximally independent in a comfortable & supportive system that allows them to conserve energy and decrease the likelihood of upper extremity pain and injury.
This full day course will provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for providing ultralight/sports wheelchairs to appropriate candidates. Participants will learn to compare and contrast various frame styles and configuration options to guide best selection for individual clients. Case examples will demonstrate the evaluation process, product trials and generation of the final wheelchair prescription. Interaction of cushions and backrests with the identified frame will be discussed as will selection of accessories to optimize user function. Strategies for communication with suppliers and manufacturers to facilitate accurate chair delivery will be shared. Additionally, suggestions for final fitting, specific chair adjustments, trouble shooting, and client education for equipment management, wheelchair skills training and upper limb preservation will be included in the educational program. Relevant research findings will be incorporated to support recommendations and suggestions for medical justification of specific wheelchairs and accessories will be discussed. Hands on demonstration, audience practice and interactive discussion will be incorporated throughout the day to allow participants to improve skills & confidence with ultralight/sports wheelchairs.
Objectives:
Upon completion of this course participants will have a clear and practical understanding of and will be able to:
Provide 5 reasons/justification for prescribing ultralight/sports wheelchairs.
Compare and contrast at least 4 different styles of ultralight/sports wheelchairs.
Describe 3 components of the comprehensive evaluation necessary when considering prescription of an ultralight/sports wheelchair.
Identify 10 key considerations for wheelechair specifications & configuration.
Solve 4 common problems with ultralight/sports wheelchair fit & performance.
Provide patient education for 3 topics surrounding manual wheelchair use.
Understand objective measurement of manual wheelchair propulsion.
Be empowered to provide improved equipment & services to clients.
Other courses at European Seating Symposium 2007:
Practical Pressure Management by the Healthcare Team:
Issues of the Seating Interface and Heels
Clinical Application of Interface Pressure Mapping
Ultralight / Sports Manual Wheelchairs:
Best Clinical Practice for Optimal Client Outcomes