Seating, Wheelchair and Postural Care Assessments...
Our paediatric therapists specialising in neuro-disability provide postural assessments for babies, children and young people who have postural, seating and mobility needs as a result of an injury or health condition.
The assessment explores the client’s range of movement throughout their body, the control their have over this movement and any skeletal changes that may be present as a result of their condition or disability.
As well as assessing the client’s current physical presentation, we also consider whether future skeletal or soft tissue changes may occur as a result of the client’s condition or injury. It is particularly important that as children grow, measures are put in place to try to prevent any potential future deterioration of their posture and functional abilities, in so far as is possible.
During the assessment the therapist also considers:
The client’s transfer techniques
The method and technology required to control the functions of a chair or wheelchair safely
Specific activities the client needs or wants to carry out
Projected growth rate and size to ensure maximum use of any equipment provided
Any risk factors
The environments the chair or wheelchair will be used in
The client’s and equipment’s method of transport and type of vehicle
Information relating to relevant family members or carers
Requests from the client/ family for personalised features
Postural support requirements the client may have when sleeping. This is particularly important for children and will form part of their 24 hour postural care plan
Following assessment, we are able to advise on the potential options available to meet the client’s requirements. In order to establish the most suitable equipment and accessories for the client, follow up assessments with equipment suppliers are usually required.