Wheelchair Seating & Positioning

Having mobility is an important factor in being able to lead a productive and fulfilling life. If an individual is unable to walk, an appropriate mobility base and seating system are imperative to enhance the ability to interact and perform functional skills.

Seating

Optimal positioning in the seated posture is often the basis for providing an individual with stability in order to perform a functional task. Seating should be one of the first things addressed once the person is out of bed before any other assistive technology is considered.

A primary example occurs when an individual is unable to sit independently and uses his arms to hold himself in an attempt to keep from leaning. By providing appropriate support, the individual can free up his arms to perform an activity. Proper seating can assist with enhancing breathing and digestion, head control, use of the arms,  alleviation of pain, or decreasing the potential for getting skin breakdown. Positioning devices used in a wheelchair can assist the individual to maintain a desired posture. These devices include a cushion, backrest, headrest, trunk, arm and leg supports. Adapted car seats, other sitting devices and standers are also pieces of equipment which assist with proper positioning.

Mobility/Wheelchairs

The therapists in the Wheelchair and Seating Center also work with the individual to evaluate and recommend mobility devices. These include pediatric strollers, manual wheelchairs, scooters, powered wheelchairs and specialty wheelchairs that tilt, recline, elevate, stand or climb stairs. 

The evaluation includes physical and cognitive abilities as well as environmental and community issues related to access. The Wheelchair and Seating Center works closely with rehabilitation technology suppliers (companies that distribute the equipment) and manufacturers (companies that make the products). These suppliers are present at each evaluation and delivery to enhance optimal outcomes.

The Wheelchair and Seating Center is fortunate in that there are many pieces of demonstration equipment available for the individual to see, touch and test before the final recommendation is made. The therapists, suppliers and rehabilitation engineers are able to customize commercially available pieces of equipment as needed by the individual.

Wheelchair and Seating Evaluation/Justification Form

For more information, call our Toll Free Referral and Information Line: 1-800-354-REHAB (7342), or visit the locations page of our Web site.