Page 18 - Mobility Management, June/July 2020

ATP Series
KYPHOSIS:
18 JUNE-JULY2020|MOBILITYMANAGEMENT
MobilityMgmt.com
CORRECT OR ACCOMMODATE?
Kyphosis Is a Common Postural Problem for Wheelchair Users, But Seating Approaches Vary from Client to Client
By Laurie Watanabe
Kyphotic postures are common among clients who use Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) wheelchairs. But
that commonality doesn’t simplify how kyphosis should be addressed, because it can be caused by a number of different factors... and because, of course, every CRT client
has a unique history and a unique set of personal goals. Which can make addressing kyphosis — and
addressing whether to accommodate it or try to correct it — challenging.
How Kyphosis Presents
“Kyphosis is an exaggerated, forward rounding of the back,” said Linda Bollinger, PT, DPT, ATP, Clinical
Education Manager for Sunrise Medical. “It can occur at any age, but over time will result in the vertebrae becoming more wedge shaped. A person sitting in
a kyphotic posture will present with a +sagittal pelvic angle (posterior pelvic tilt), rounding of
the trunk and neck, and a forward head. Some progress to sitting on the sacrum, which can
lead to pressure injuries.”
Tricia Garven, MPT, ATP, Regional
Clinical Education Manager at Permobil,
KYPHOTIC SPINE LATERAL VIEW: DEPOSITPHOTOS..COM/CLIPAREA