The pelvis is the key to maintaining correct posture as it dictates the position of the head, trunk and extremities for users in wheelchairs.
Good posture is characterised by:
- The symmetrical alignment of the pelvis
- Physiological curvatures of the sagittal plane and straight spine in the coronal plane
- Well-formed chest
- Shoulders slightly backward in relation to the pelvis
- Straight position of head
Modifications to posture and position are best done in small incremental changes as these allow the user to physiologically adapt to them and for the assessor to manage the progress sufficiently.
DISCLAIMER: EVERY OUTCOME HAS TO BE DETERMINED BY THE CLIENT AND BASED ON THE CLINICAL EVALUATION ASSESSMENT.
Clinical Issue |
Common Suggestions for Intervention |
Suitable Products |
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Posterior Pelvic Tilt |
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Anterior Pelvic Tilt/Lordosis |
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Tight Hamstrings |
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Limited Hip Flexion (one side or both) |
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Extensor Thrust |
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Leg Length Discrepancy |
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Pelvic Rotation |
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Windsweeping |
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Hip Adduction |
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Hip Abduction |
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Pelvic Obliquity |
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Painful or Dislocated Hip |
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Pressure Risk on Cushion | Most wheelchair users spend many hours in their wheelchairs. They may have full sensation but are often unable to change position independently or effectively.
With a user that has pelvic deformities, often the core reason behind their pressure concerns is coming from poor positioning and loading of the pelvis on the cushion. An adjustable cushion that provides the ability to load the pelvis properly will give them improved posture and function. A suitable high-pressure redistribution cushion used with the tilt-in-space function can promote skin integrity and help users independently maintain comfort. |
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Scoliosis |
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