Question

A client has severe Parkinson's disease and uses a standard wheelchair in the home. The family reports that the client slides out of the wheelchair seat due to increasing extensor tone. Which modification to the standard wheelchair would be MOST BENEFICIAL for this client?

Answer 1

The most beneficial modification for a Parkinson's patient who slides out of a standard wheelchair would be adding a pelvic belt, a lap tray, or a wheelchair with a reclining back to help manage their extensor tone.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client with severe Parkinson's disease who is sliding out of a wheelchair due to increased extensor tone, a beneficial modification to the standard wheelchair would be the addition of a pelvic belt or a lap tray. The pelvic belt would provide support and prevent sliding by maintaining the pelvis in a more posterior position, countering the effects of extensor tone.

Alternatively, a lap tray would give upper extremity support, which may decrease the extensor thrust that contributes to sliding out of the chair. Additionally, a wheelchair with a reclining back might help in reducing extensor tone by allowing the user to sit in a more reclined position, thus reducing the gravitational effect that might be contributing to the sliding.