Wheelchair Prescription Lecture Notes

Types of Wheelchairs

Manual Wheelchairs

• Standard Manual Wheelchair: Most common, collapsible, larger wheel.
• Lightweight Wheelchair: Easier for frequent transport.
• Sport Wheelchair: Customized, fits individual physical conditions and needs.

Power Wheelchairs

• Designed for more independent mobility in various spaces.
• Must fit the unique needs of the client.
• Types include attendant-propelled (requires assistance) and self-propelled.
• Also includes scooters as a subcategory.

Considerations for Wheelchair Prescription

• Client Needs: ADL (Activities of Daily Living), physical and psychological condition, societal situation, financial capacity.
• Affordability: High-tech wheelchairs may be preferable but not affordable for all clients.
• Interface System: Required in high-tech designs.

Key Design Aspects of Wheelchairs

Head Support

• Needed if the individual has difficulty controlling head movement.
• Placement: Base of the skull.

Shoulder Support

• Shouldn't interfere with upper extremity movement but must provide adequate support.
• Adjustable height.

Armrest and Lumbar Support

• Must be considered based on the individual's condition.

Sitting Position

• Optimal position is 90° flexion at hip, knees, and ankles (90-90-90 rule).
• Tilt feature may be beneficial for resting periods without falling forward.

Footrest

• Proper height to ensure comfort and correct distribution of pressure.
• Important because users often spend long hours in their wheelchairs.

Pressure Considerations

• Back and seat pressure must be calculated carefully to prevent discomfort and injury.
• Efforts in rehab engineering focus on developing proper seating systems.

Conclusion

• Wheelchair prescription is complex and must be tailored to individual needs.
• Upcoming lessons will cover more details on wheelchair selection and seating systems.