Wheelchair Positioning for Function

Course Overview
This intermediate-level continuing education course provides therapists with essential knowledge for evaluating and implementing appropriate wheelchair seating interventions. The course takes a systematic approach to positioning challenges, exploring common issues and solutions by body area. Beginning with the pelvis as the foundation of seating, participants learn how pelvic position directly impacts trunk alignment, head position, and overall function. Through detailed examination of positioning challenges for the trunk, lower extremities, upper extremities, and head, therapists gain practical skills in assessment and intervention selection.

Learning Outcomes 
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:

• Apply appropriate wheelchair seating interventions for a client sitting with an asymmetrical pelvic position
• Apply appropriate wheelchair seating interventions for a client sitting with an asymmetrical trunk position
• Apply appropriate wheelchair seating interventions for a client sitting with the lower extremities in an asymmetrical position
• Apply appropriate wheelchair seating interventions for a client assuming destructive postures or demonstrating uncontrolled movements of the upper extremities
• Analyze assessment strategies for a client with a suboptimal head position
• Apply appropriate wheelchair seating interventions for a client sitting with a suboptimal head position to enhance ability to engage in communication, social participation, and feeding

About the Author/Presenter 
Michelle Lange is an occupational therapist with over 38 years of experience. She has been in private practice, Access to Independence, for over 19 years, where she currently focuses on education and consultation. She is a well-respected lecturer, both nationally and internationally, and has authored numerous texts, chapters, and articles. She is the coeditor of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide (1st and 2nd eds.). Michelle is a RESNA Fellow and a RESNA-certified ATP and SMS. She is also a member of the Clinician Task Force.

Audience/Accreditations and Approvals 
Colibri Healthcare 
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details):
Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy

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