Six Tips on performing Successful Wheelchair Evaluation

By Bijal Shah

As physical therapists, we prescribe a wheelchair based on our patient’s needs. We look for things like ambulatory status, weight-bearing precautions, arm or leg injuries, cardiopulmonary problems, etc while prescribing an appropriate wheelchair.  Wheelchair evaluation can be very simple and straightforward when it is used for short-term use.  Contradictorily, it can be tricky for patients with neurological disorders. It starts with getting information regarding past history, checking muscle strength and balance, finding the cognitive abilities and the usage of the chair.   Yes, it is your full-fledged thorough physical or occupational therapy evaluation. And let me tell you, it does not end only an evaluation! A patient needs to be well trained to propel the manual chair or drive the power chair for the safety of himself and the safety of others.  WheelChair evaluation Continue reading “Six Tips on performing Successful Wheelchair Evaluation”

Types of wheelchair and a guide to selection

By Bijal Shah

A proper wheelchair provides the required comfort and necessary support.  Transport chair, Geri chair, and electric chair are just some varieties of wheelchairs.  With so many types of wheelchairs available in the market, it is crucial for people working in a hospital or a subacute care facility to find a proper wheelchair for their patients.  It becomes more challenging if you work with neuro patients as I do. The reason being, patients with neurological disorders change their presentation frequently due to change in tone and tightness. That is why a proper wheelchair evaluation is important.   The aim of this article is to provide you with basic information regarding different types of wheelchairs and their use. 

types of wheelchairs Continue reading “Types of wheelchair and a guide to selection”