From Frame to Freedom: Optimizing Manual Wheelchairs for Real Life

$15.00

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SKU

course-75-2324

COURSE DESCRIPTION: An optimally configured ultralight manual wheelchair can significantly improve mobility, function, and long-term health outcomes for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. Proper fit and ...

Level: Intermediate; Credit 0.1 CEU/ 1 CCU PT

Credits: This course has been approved by the American Physical Therapy Association of Arkansas for 0.1 CEU/1 CCU

AOTA Category: OT Service Delivery, Foundational Knowledg; AOTA approved for 0.1 CEUs/1 contact hour

Instructional method: Recorded on-line asynchronous lecture with supporting video demonstration.

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An optimally configured ultralight manual wheelchair can significantly improve mobility, function, and long-term health outcomes for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. Proper fit and seated posture are essential for safety, comfort, and independence, while poor configuration may lead to secondary complications over time. This course introduces the foundational principles of manual wheelchair configuration, emphasizing the importance of tailoring each chair to the rider’s unique needs. Participants will learn key anthropometric and wheelchair frame measurements, along with clinical considerations for frame material selection—including the performance characteristics of carbon fiber and titanium. Using evidence-based guidelines and current research, learners will gain practical strategies to optimize wheelchair setup for clinical success.

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Course Outline

Minutes	Topic
5	Introduction / Overview/ Review Course Objectives
25	Identifying key anthropometric measurements and application to wheelchair fit, postural control, and long-term health outcomes
15	Wheelchair frame materials and clinical applications
10	Evidence based practice manual wheelchair configuration
5	Summary

Who Enrolls

This program is designed for Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Assistive Technology Professionals, and Medical Suppliers/Providers.

Instructor Information

Catherine Sweeney, PT, ATP/SMS, joined Permobil as Regional Clinical Education Manager in 2019. Prior to this role, she spent 24 years of her 35-year career at Providence Portland Medical Center, where she co-founded the outpatient seating clinic program in 2004. As a lead seating specialist, Catherine played a key role in expanding access to wheeled mobility services by providing staff education across outpatient satellite clinics, home health, and regional Providence hospitals.

Catherine has served as co-chair of the RESNA Physical Therapy Special Interest Group (PT SIG) and is a co-founder of the Northwest Assistive Technology Access Coalition, where she is dedicated to improving access to assistive technology for Oregon Medicaid recipients. She has presented at both RESNA and the International Seating Symposium, and remains committed to advancing best practices in wheeled mobility interventions.