OccupationalTherapy.com Phone: 866-782-9924


Headrest Recommendations

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS

May 15, 2013

Share:

Question

Do you ever recommend headrests for different settings or activities?

Answer

I usually only recommend one headrest as payor sources will normally only pay for one.  However, there might be times that a different headrest may help increase support, function, or participation. For instance, a client my need support during transportation, but may need a more dynamic headrest for a school/work setting.  You will need to document these differences in order to secure the necessary funding.


michelle lange

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS

Michelle Lange is an occupational therapist with over 35 years of experience and has been in private practice, Access to Independence, for over 15 years. She is a well-respected lecturer, both nationally and internationally, and has authored numerous texts, chapters, and articles. She is the co-editor of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: a clinical resource guide. She is the former NRRTS Continuing Education Curriculum Coordinator and Clinical Editor of NRRTS Directions magazine. Michelle is a RESNA Fellow and member of the Clinician Task Force. Michelle is a RESNA certified ATP and SMS.

 


Related Courses

Switch Assessment: Determining Optimal Switch Type And Placement
Presented by Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Video

Presenter

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Course: #5928Level: Advanced2 Hours
  'Very detailed and informative course!'   Read Reviews
An access method is used by the client to control assistive technology devices, such as power wheelchairs and speech generating devices. Single or multiple switches can be used for access, though careful switch assessment is required to determine optimal switch placement and switch type to meet an individual’s needs.

Secondary Supports: It’s All In The Angles!
Presented by Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Video

Presenter

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Course: #6111Level: Intermediate1 Hour
  'This comprehensive overview was really needed for someone who is unfamiliar with why many of these supports are used'   Read Reviews
Wheelchair seating systems often include secondary supports including pelvic belts, anterior trunk supports, and ankle straps. This course will explore secondary supports and appropriate clinical applications, as well as what to do when secondary supports are required, and team members have restraint concerns. Case studies will be included.

Continued Conversations, The CE Podcast: The Top Ten Mistakes Clinicians Make During Seating and Mobility Evaluations
Presented by Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Audio

Presenter

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Course: #4610Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'informative'   Read Reviews
This podcast will be a conversation about common mistakes made during wheelchair seating and mobility evaluations. The discussion will give you new ideas to improve the evaluation process!

Wheelchair Mobility: Power Wheelchair Alternative Driving Methods
Presented by Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Video

Presenter

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Course: #4363Level: Advanced2 Hours
  'Did demonstrates the wide array of options available for people trying to use power wheelchairs'   Read Reviews
While some clients require a power wheelchair to achieve independent mobility, not all will be able to use a standard joystick. Clients with paralysis, muscle weakness, increased muscle tone, and uncontrolled movements can often drive a power wheelchair successfully when matched to the most appropriate alternative driving method. This course will systematically explore various alternative driving methods, including specific features, to match these complex client needs. Case studies will be used throughout.

Wheelchair Seating For The Pediatric Population
Presented by Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Video

Presenter

Michelle Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
Course: #5907Level: Advanced2 Hours
  'The assessment tool is very helpful for evaluating seating in the school population'   Read Reviews
Pediatric seating and mobility equipment are not simply smaller than equipment designed for adults. This course will present the importance of pediatric positioning, clinical considerations, how to determine if a child is positioned adequately, as well as alternative positioning. A detailed case study will pull all the information together in a practical way.

Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. By using our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy.