Seating & Mobility

Male patient receives a moment of support from his companion during his wheelchair seating evaluation with their Occupational Therapist in the Wheelchair Seating and Mobility Clinic.

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Beyond restoring mobility — providing you with a renewed sense of independence and autonomy

At Shepherd Center’s Wheelchair Seating & Mobility Clinic, we offer personalized care to enhance your mobility and independence. Our interdisciplinary team specializes in complex rehabilitation technology, wheelchair seating, and mobility solutions, ensuring each approach is tailored to your unique needs. We provide ongoing adjustments and support beyond the initial consultation, focusing on your comfort, functionality, and integration into your home and community. Through patient education and collaborative care, we empower you to make the most of your mobility solutions, fostering autonomy and confidence after a mobility setback.

Who does the Wheelchair Seating & Mobility Clinic serve?

The Wheelchair Seating & Mobility Clinic welcomes individuals ages 12 and older who need a wheelchair, regardless of diagnosis. A referral from a medical professional is required for the initial evaluation, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored approach to your unique mobility needs. To learn more about how to begin the referral process, visit our Appointments and Referrals page.

The transformative benefits of wheelchair seating and fitting

Wheelchair seating and fitting go beyond mere accommodations — they are pivotal in enhancing overall well-being ensuring individuals experience the highest quality of life and mobility.

Personalized comfort

Tailored wheelchair seating ensures optimal comfort, accommodating individual body contours and preferences.

Enhanced functionality

Proper fitting maximizes the wheelchair’s functionality, promoting ease of use and independence in daily activities.

Increased mobility

Proper seating positively impacts maneuverability, facilitating smoother and more efficient movement, including transfers.

Improved posture and positioning

Customized seating addresses posture and positioning concerns, reducing the risk of discomfort, pain, and complications while improving breathing, swallowing, and musculoskeletal alignment.

Empowerment through independence

Custom seating and fitting empower individuals, promoting independence and confidence in navigating their environment.

Prevention of pressure sores

An optimally configured wheelchair improves pressure distribution and reduces the risk of pressure ulcers. Education regarding wheelchair weight shift techniques is also important for prevention.

Seating and mobility services

We are your partner in personalized mobility solutions. From in-depth evaluations and custom fittings for first-time and experienced wheelchair users to ongoing modifications and consultations, we adapt to your changing needs. We use advanced pressure mapping technology to address pressure sores and offer precise prescriptions for wheelchair parts, collaborating with your suppliers. Our hands-on training and education in wheelchair skills empower you to navigate diverse environments with confidence.

Please note that while we work closely with suppliers and write prescriptions for parts and pieces, we do not purchase wheelchairs or parts directly through Shepherd Center. We can provide guidance on mobility equipment and tips on working with suppliers for your purchases.

Evaluation for first-time and current wheelchair users

  • Initial assessments for individuals new to wheelchair use, ensuring a tailored approach to meet unique mobility needs.
  • Evaluation of current wheelchair usage, identification of issues, and mobility planning for adjustments.
    In-depth consultations to understand individual requirements, lifestyle, and preferences.

Assessment for changing mobility devices

  • Evaluation for individuals considering transitioning from manual to power chairs or vice versa.
  • In-depth consultations to determine the most suitable mobility device based on lifestyle, mobility goals, and medical considerations.

Fittings for custom manual and power wheelchairs

  • Custom fittings for wheelchairs, considering individual body contours, ensuring comfort, pressure distribution, and maximizing functionality.
  • Trial and fitting of equipment, including manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, scooters, power assist add-ons, and more.

Modifications and adjustments to current equipment

  • Ongoing modifications and adjustments to existing equipment to address evolving needs and ensure continued comfort and functionality.

Pressure mapping assessment on cushion eue to wounds

  • Utilization of pressure mapping technology to assess and prevent pressure sores.
  • Customized wheelchair cushion recommendations to address specific needs and ensure optimal pressure distribution.

Prescriptions for new wheelchairs or replacement pieces (fulfilled by supplier)

  • Issuance of detailed prescriptions for new wheelchairs or replacement parts and pieces.
  • Coordination with reliable suppliers to fulfill prescription needs, ensuring the longevity and reliability of mobility equipment.

Support and evaluation for positioning concerns

  • Specialized assessments and support for individuals experiencing posture changes and asymmetries.
  • Evaluation of seating and positioning needs to address comfort, improve musculoskeletal alignment, prevent complications, and enhance overall well-being.

Training in the use of mobility devices (wheelchair skills training)

  • Personalized training sessions focusing on mastering essential wheelchair skills.
  • Empowering individuals with the knowledge and confidence to navigate various environments independently.

Education on mobility devices and maintenance

  • Informative sessions provide insights into different mobility devices available.
  • Education on proper maintenance procedures to enhance the longevity and performance of mobility equipment.

Maintenance of how the person is using the chair

  • Ongoing support and guidance to ensure proper use and maintenance of the wheelchair.
  • Regular follow-ups to address any concerns, make necessary adjustments, and optimize the overall user experience.
A woman assists a man in a wheelchair using a long stick for guidance in a store with mobility equipment. They appear engaged in learning or demonstration, with various assistive devices visible in the background.

Your specialized care team

Imagine having a team of experts focused on your unique needs, collaborating to give you a renewed sense of independence and autonomy. At Shepherd Center, that’s precisely what you can expect. Your interdisciplinary care team comprises professionals with specialized knowledge in wheelchair seating, fitting, and mobility. They work together seamlessly to provide the most comprehensive and personalized care possible.