Active Movements

Is Any Movement Possible?

If the patient does not move at all, there is a serious risk of skin breakdown because of weight shifting, which relieves pressure is not possible. Patients whould be shown and erncouraged to active weight shifting on a regular ( IDEALLY EVERY 15 to 30 MINUTES FOR MIN> 115 SECONDS) basis to avoid pressure points ( see wound management later)

Is there any tendencey to "slide" in the chair (giving rise to shear)?

If Patient Active, Are Movements Rich And Varied?

A hallmark of disability, especially with cases involving brain damage, is the reduction in the richness and variety of movement, which able bodied take for granted.

e.g. The repeated uncontrolled hip abduction in CP, or flexed posture in Parkinsons are common examples of poverty of movement in patients with central nervous systerm involvement.

Are Functionanal And Reliable Movements Possible?

The patients ability for useful movement will be an important determinant for the type of control system prescribed for any powered wheelchair option.

Are one of the following movements possible:-

Can Patient Movements Result In Injury?

Before prescribing a solution determine if any body segment is at risk of injury.
Pad components, block movement that can result in injury, and inspect the patient environment for hazardous conditions (e.g. Stairs)

Methodically review to determine if any moving body segments can potentially result in wheelchair related injury:-

Environmental Factors Related To Wheelchair Injury And Fatality

Injuries Associated With Wheelchairs