A Case for Customized Seating
By Gora, Karen; Rehab Management,Publication Date: June 2010
Article discusses the use of various seating components and the functions of a team of seating professionals in the development of customized wheelchair seating systems. A seating team evaluating client needs and developing customized seating may include assistive technology professional (ATP) credentialed occupational and physical therapists, a rehab engineer, seating and upholstery technicians, and a funding specialist in collaboration with durable medical equipment (DME) companies supplying demonstration equipment and assisting in equipment funding and maintenance. Clients with complex postural support needs require a system that simulates a therapist’s hand placement and support force with seating components that provide similar alignment force. Contoured support pads attached with adjustable hardware, computerized pressure mapping systems to determine pressure forces between skin and sitting surface, and molding systems and foam impressions are materials and methods described for creating customized seating. An illustrative case study from the OrthoSEAT service at the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in grand Rapids, Michigan, is also offered, describing the evaluation for and creation of a seating system for a 41-year-old female client with cerebral palsy and skeletal abnormalities, resulting in custom-upholstered seating mounted to a rear-wheel driven powered chair with features including a custom tray and headrest, switch mounting, and adjustable angled lateral thoracic support.
Published by: Ascend Media LLC (Website:http://www.ascendmedia.com)
Link to text: http://www.rehabpub.com/issues/articles/2010-06_07.asp
