Wheelchair 8: Introduction to Seating Technologies
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In this module we will describe the basic features of wheelchair seating technologies. The focus of this module is seating technologies, including the features of basic categories of wheelchair seating, the different materials used in this seating, and how each of these might address posture, skin protection and comfort. This module will provide a framework for decision making for seating technologies and provide valuable information regarding seating equipment feature selection based on examination findings.
Learning Objectives:
1. Name at least four things that the wheelchair seating system should provide for the user
2. Describe three benefits provided by linear seating
3. Describe three benefits provided by contoured seating
4. Name at least four materials that are used in wheelchair seating
Course Launched 2020
Barbara Crane
PT, PhD, ATP/SMS, RESNA Fellow
Barbara Crane is a Professor of Physical Therapy at the University of Hartford in West Hartford, CT. She received a BS in Physical Therapy from the University of Connecticut, an MA in Gerontology from Saint Joseph College, in Connecticut, and a PhD in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Pittsburgh, PA. She is also a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS). She has over 25 years of clinical experience in adult rehabilitation with a specialty in custom wheelchairs and seating assessment and recommendation. She has lectured extensively at local, national, and international conferences.
Laura Cohen
PhD, PT, ATP/SMS, RESNA Fellow
Laura Cohen, PhD, PT, ATP/SMS, RESNA Fellow is the Principal for Rehabilitation & Technology Consultants in Arlington, VA. She has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals with complex disabilities of all ages and consulting with a diverse group of healthcare stakeholders. Her experience has provided a rare view spanning direct clinical practice, research, claims review and audits, policy and advocacy. Being able to directly experience various perspectives has created her passion for developing/implementing models of care that will improve outcomes, resolve delivery of care issues, and reduce the overall cost of care for individuals with complex disabilities. Dr Cohen has multiple peer reviewed publications and presents regularly at professional conferences to a range of stakeholders.
Elizabeth Cole
MSPT, ATP
Since 1985, Elizabeth Cole has had many roles in the provision of complex rehab technology for people with permanent disabilities. She has practiced as a Physical Therapist, managed a seating and wheeled mobility clinic, provided reimbursement consulting, and developed numerous on-site and online education programs. Elizabeth has lectured extensively at conferences, trade-shows and seminars and has been published in industry journals. She has been a member of key organizations within the complex rehab technology field and has contributed to many industry-wide work groups dedicated to reimbursement policy change. Her passion is for people with disabilities to have access to the most appropriate equipment to meet their unique needs.