Finding the

Permobil’s new RS Seating System offers an adjust- able head support that cradles the head by providing suboccipital (below the back of the neck) support and allowing rotation for a functional visual field.

Headrest You

Need

by Kathy Wechsler

Never

underestimate

the importance o

proper wheelcha

positioning,

especially with a

neuromuscular disease.

The correct alignment of pelvis, hip and neck helps you function throughout

Headrests are a crucial part of wheelchair positioning, particularly for those with weak neck muscles. Whether your chair should have a headrest, and what kind would work best for you, are questions to be discussed with your physical or occupational therapist (PT or OT).

Signs and Symptoms

If you’re starting to feel fatigued and having trouble holding yourself upright, or noticing breathing or swallowing problems, a headrest may be helpful, said Jeff Steinburger, a PT at Prairie Rehabilitation Services, an outpatient facility in Sioux Falls, S.D.

62 Quest

2007, No. 1