Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ABDA, ATP/SMS
This blog is the third in a series on determining the optimal resistance when using dynamic components. The first blog in this series addressed determining resistance in the Dynamic Rocker Back Interface (DRBi) and the second blog addressed finding the optimal resistance when using Dynamic Footrests. In this final blog, we shall turn to the Dynamic Head Support Hardware.
Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ABDA, ATP/SMS
Our last blog discussed how to determine the correct resistance for a Dynamic Rocker Back interface (DRBi). When a client moves within their seating system, the elastomers in the DRBi compress and the stored energy helps to return the client to upright. Various elastomers are available to provide the most appropriate level of resistance for an individual.
Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ABDA, ATP/SMS
The Dynamic Rocker Back Interface (DRBi) moves in response to client force as two elastomers are compressed. The energy stored in the elastomers helps the client to return to an upright starting position. These elastomers can be switched to change the level of resistance.
Jill Sparacio, OTR/L, ATP/SMS, ABDA
Clearly, Something Was Different
Some basic items need to be routinely checked when using dynamic wheelchair components. Usually the idea of routine “maintenance” worries me, however what I found can be easily checked.
This is the story of J and the flattened elastomers. J is a young man with an incredibly strong extensor tone pattern that usually initiates in his hips. He uses a Seating Dynamics Dynamic Rocker Back to absorb these forces. He resides in a long term care facility and has multiple caregivers who have known him for many years.
I was receiving complaints from his caregivers that he “just doesn’t look right in his wheelchair anymore”. When passing him, I also noticed that he was no longer sitting on his seat. Instead, his feet were firmly planted on his footplates, with hips extended and his buttocks lifted off of the seat. His arching/extension pattern had returned. At times, the staff were unable to get his feet on his footplates due to this extension. Others commented that he sat much better if his feet were left hanging off the front edge of his footplates. Observation revealed a more exaggerated, compromised posture with his hips far forward on his seat.
Bottom line, something was different.