Wheelchair and Seating Evaluation

Our therapists work with people age 13 and older who suffer from impairments and may benefit from assistive equipment. You may benefit from a wheelchair evaluation if you’ve received treatment or are currently being treated for issues that can create movement problems such as:

• Orthopaedic injuries or amputations
• Neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS) and stroke
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Cancer
• Pressure injuries and wounds

We can also evaluate your current wheelchair to check for improvements to your seating or positioning. Our evaluations are not meant for people without a medical condition who want a wheelchair.

To receive mobility devices that may be covered by insurance, you'll need medical or therapy documentation that addresses your limited physical ability and needs. For example, to qualify for a power (electric) wheelchair or scooter, you’d need to demonstrate an inability to use a cane, walker, or manual wheelchair in your home. Additional requirements for qualification include the following.

• You must have a health condition that requires others’ help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, bathroom use, and getting in/out of bed.
• You must be able to safely get in or on the wheelchair or scooter, operate it, and get off.
• You must pass a standard vision test.
• You must be able to fully understand the safe use of a mobility device.        

All wheelchairs are meant to primarily help you move in your home -- they’re not for leisure or recreational activities.

We perform a comprehensive evaluation in our clinic to match equipment with your needs to help you reach your highest level of independence. During your appointment, we conduct a series of tests to better understand your strength, balance, ability to reach items safely, coordination, stability while walking, and any chronic pain that can affect movement.

We also evaluate your seating needs to determine the most appropriate cushions or wheelchair modifications to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores and to allow existing sores to heal.

Your options may range from a lightweight, manual wheelchair to a scooter or power wheelchair with features to assist you with standing, reclining, and ulcer prevention. Our clinic works with a variety of local and national medical equipment companies; your insurance company may have contracts with specific vendors. We’ll help you understand your options to select the most appropriate device for your needs. Then, we'll help you order your new wheelchair and train you to use it safely.