MDA MUSCLE WALK | PALM BEACH | SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2016

Carey Britton, and Debra Britton were out at the MDA Muscle Walk at Roger Dean Stadium today supporting Families with MD, and the MDA of South Florida.  On this beautiful morning, we met many families, friends and other community resources; heard amazing stories, and believe we were able to provide experience, knowledge and support.

NSM Branch 132 is located in Pompano Beach, with over 25 years of experience, the staff is a resource to those who need seating and mobility equipment and services. Our office covers from Port Saint Lucie to Homestead.  Our office located in Pompano Beach (Ft. Lauderdale) has a seating room, full parts/service department and showroom.  NSM has additional Florida locations in Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville.

NSM Corporate has committed their support to the MDA, watch for NSM at MDA and other Local Events.  Thanks for your continued support.


NSM is located at 1406 SW 13th Court, Pompano Beach, Florida. You can reach them at (954) 946-5793.

Tilt in Space has almost replaced Recline on Manual Wheelchairs.

Before tilt-in-space wheelchairs, reclining wheelchairs were dominant when a person was a high risk for pressure sores and needed to change their position in the chair during the course of the day. The drawback of reclining wheelchairs is that when reclining the backrest, it causes a sliding effect on the user. The back shears against the users pelvis and against their back. This can cause sores on the back and pelvis if the user's skin is susceptible. Additionally recliners can cause a client to slide down and out of the wheelchair creating positioning and functional issues.

Since the introduction of the Tilt-in-Space wheelchair; recliners have taken the back seat. The only time recliners are prescribed over tilts is when a client needs to recline for feeding, issues with blood pressure, hip limitation, daily activity or severe deformity.

Tilt-in-Space takes a person sitting upright and tilts the whole seat frame back. This allows for the pressures on the buttocks to be redistributed to the back of the user. The tilt-in-space also allows for correct posture throughout the entire range of tilt in space. The tilt with the assistance of gravity helps force a users back, and hips to the rear of the wheelchair helping maintained midline posture. With tilt there is no shear effect since the user's body never changes position against the support surfaces of the wheelchair.

There are chairs now that offer both tilt and recline that can offering maximum benefits.

This article was written by Carey J. Britton, ATP/SMS, CRTS for Active Mobility Center.  Any questions or comments, call (954) 946-5793 or email cbritton@wheelchariguys.com .

What Can You Do to Help Make a Positive Change

If you know me, you know that I attempt to do the very best at whatever I choose to do in life.  In regards to my work, I am passionate about helping others through Seating and Mobility.  Over the past few years, there has been an attack by CMS/Medicare on this small industry that positively affects so many people; allowing them to live a more productive and independent life.  With the help of Active Mobility, I have been able to spend time advocating and lobbying for access to these services.

The number one (1) complaint that we here at Active Mobility Center, is that it takes too long to receive new equipment, and that the hoops needed jump through are unbearable.  As an industry we have done a poor job educating the public on how to advocate for themselves. We, as a collective group, always want to satisfy our customers, avoiding all the negativity of the increasing pressures.  When there was more of a margin/profit on medical equipment, we could hire more staff and facilitate equipment faster; however now with these changes- we have to do more with less.

These increased funding pressures, combined with the amount of requirements now to qualify and prior authorize equipment is making this process much more lengthy. CMS/Medicare had created new watch dogs who are bounty hunters only profiting by finding errors in paperwork, so suppliers have to spend much more time on the details; than the actual equipment provision.

Over the past few years, you may have heard of a program called competitive bidding. This program, no longer only a Medicare problem; has been finding it's way into the private sector; and if Obama's plans go into affect in 2015, will affect state medicaid programs. 

As of April 1st 2014, Manual Tilt in Space wheelchairs as well as some other DME products will become capped rentals. Many providers have already voiced their concerns that they will no longer be able to accept this and will no longer provide these services.

Equipment providers can no longer afford to be the sole Advocate for the users of medical equipment. The pressures exerted have taken the profit out of the system and where equipment users will need to get involved to avoid access to these services.  There are many ways that you can get involved, from contacting CMS/Medicare, your state and local representatives, or attend lobby groups to show how important this is to you and others.

Staying in touch through NRRTS.org, NCART.us or other similar organizations can help guide you and help your voice be heard.

This article was written by Carey Britton, ATP/SMS, CRTS for Active Mobility Center. He can be reached for comment at cbritton@wheelchairguys.com or at 954-946-5793.

Understanding A Small Moment in the Life of a Wheelchair User

I was watching behind the scenes of Jamie Fox playing Ray Charles, and he didn't become the character until the director had his eyes sealed with a prosthetic.  Until he was able to experience life without vision, he didn't understand what it was truly like.

Similarly, the public has not realization on what a wheelchair user goes through both physically and emotionally. I will not pretend to understand or know everything; but do have each staff member working with us spend quite a lot of time sitting in and using the equipment we provide and try to perform daily tasks.  This is an eye opening process, and even though they can get out of the equipment; they learn a valuable lesson.

A few years ago the PVAF held a bowling event where everyone had to bowl from a wheelchair or scooter device.  It was a great opportunity not only to raise money; but awareness. 

Any time we as a group can glimpse at the lives of others it builds a understanding and brings down barriers.

This article was written by Carey J Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist at Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at 954-946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com.

What's More Important Wheelchair Brand or Wheelchair Configuration?

The Wheelchair Frame or the Wheelchair Configuration?

It is important to understand that when you are using a wheelchair, scooter or powered wheelchair; the seating and frame configuration is more critical than the brand of chair that you own/buy.  As an expert in the industry, I find most consumers coming to me with questions on which brand; Quickie, Invacare, Colours, Permobil or Tilite wheelchairs and which is the best.  If you had asked me a few years ago, I may have had a preference, however today through innovative new technology there are only subtle differences.

The wheelchair frame is important, however the configuration of the frame and the seating is much more critical to the function and well being of the user.  As I am sure you will agree, many wheelchair users posture is less than perfect in their wheelchair; even if the chair brand is a good one.  You can have the best of equipment but if it isn't configured properly it is only contributing to the problems you are facing.

How Can I Improve My Posture & Function? 

/As a professional, when I am asked this question, I suggest they see their physician or their physical/occupational therapist.
Their medical professionals may have insight on why they sit the way that they do. It is good practice for any wheelchair user to use a team of people to help solve these issues. 

Assuming their physician clears the user with no physical limitations, we can work to improve posture and positioning.  This may require only an adjustment; or it could require new seating and positioning equipment or an entirely new device.

The goal is aways to start at the pelvis. The human pelvis is where everything is attached, and requires the greatest attention in sitting. The goal is to place the pelvis in as close to neutral position as possible. Of course for some individuals having the pelvis anteriorally tilted or posteriorally tilted will be necessary. A stable pelvis is the route of function, which equates to mobility and quality of life. The seating supports are also very critical in the positioning and stabilization of the pelvis.

The position of the lower extremities (legs/feet) are important to consider, as they are tied to the pelvis and require support and positioning.  The angles at the feet/ankles,  the angles at the knee and the angle of the hips are very important for positioning as well as for function and mobility.

What DO I  Need to Know ?

If you are are a wheelchair user, you need to understand that how you are positioned in your wheelchair frame, the orientation, and the seating supports will improve your posture, improve your stability, improve your function and improve your health.  Failure to consider this early, when he body is flexible can result in contracture and deformity that can increase life complications. 

Who Can Help Me?

There is a seating and mobility specialist in nearly every community. This may be a physician, therapist or RESNA or NRRTS. These organizations maintain a list of practicing experts who can assist you with all your equipment needs. You should find and align yourself with a team who can monitor and make recommendations as your body changes or when you are confronted with an obstacle.

This article was written by Carey J. Britton, ATP/SMS, CRTS to offer general but important information on wheelchair configuration and seating.  Carey is the resident Seating and Mobility Specialist for Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at cbritton@wheelchairguys.com or (800) 326-4463.

Is a Wheelchair is a Medical Failure ?

I was appalled when I first heard that a Wheelchair is a Medical Failure. Apparently in the Medical Model, it is taught that when resorting to long term use of wheelchairs and other mobility devices, that you have given up.

It is not surprising then, that the community perspective is that a person in a wheelchair is lame, an invalid, or handicapped....all negatively describing a person's DISABILITIES. This is also why that Prosthetics are much more acceptable, even when they are not as functional.

It may come at a surprise, but mobility equipment is provided not for mobility or independence but to reduce the medical costs associated with an individual stuck in bed. It is clear that a bed bound individual will cost the Health care system more than what it costs to get them out of bed.  Cushioning and Positioning is not for the comfort of a wheelchair user, but to reduce injury, reduce skin breakdown and to reduce contracture and deformity.  We look at this equipment to increase function, independence and quality of life, but the funding sources (all based on Medicare's policy) does not.

Therapy services for individuals with long term mobility challenging conditions are limited. It seems that the Medical Model if there is not documented gain in function then therapy services are not needed. After spending over 20 years in this industry, the question should be without therapy services how much loss will occur. 

Medicare who creates Medical and Equipment Standards, approves equipment based on use within the home and has little flexibility about looking at equipment for recreation and vocation. 

In my 20+ year career, I have seen huge change.  I am concerned with the changing policies that more equipment users need to voice their challenges and their victories.  Not unlike the Women's Rights Movement, where women didn't have a voice, and where they were stuck in the home; equipment users deserve the same. 

If this article has moved you, I encourage you to look at www.usersfirst.org, or www.ncart.us and get involved, share your story, and be heard.  You can reach Carey Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist at Active Mobility Center at 954-946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com .

Krabat Jockey Plus

This new product to the US is a Hi-Lo base that provides kids with balanced, contoured support and lets them interact with the world- at whatever level they'd like, where every they like.. The angle-adjustable sadldle seat abducts the hips and puts the pelvis into a neutral position, encouraging an active seating position. The upper body is aslo well supported with high backrest, adjustable lumbar support, and adjustable side supports.

Saddle seats offer a dynamic, balanced position and are expecially well suited for children with tight or spastic hip adductor muscles.

Features/Benefits

* It makes it easy for kids to interact with teh world and get a handle on new skills

* For Kids between 2-7 and up to 132 lbs

* Folds down and fits into carrying bag for easy transport

* All major joints in the lower extermities become centered. This promotes natural muscle tone and length, and helps to rpevent muscle contractures, hip pain and subluxations.

* Dynamic postural control allows child to move freely.

This product was shared by Carey Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist at Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at (954) 946-5793, or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com.

What is Complex Rehab Technology ?

CRT (Complex Rehab Technology) is the newest term, developed over the last few years to describe specialty equipment that which is more involved than basic  DME (Durable Medical Equipment). As you may know DME encompasses everything from disposables  to custom wheelchairs and Orthotics/Prosthetics. You may wonder why a new term was created if it is part of DME? 

Invacare Rear Drive Powerchair

For years, DME vendors have been given a bad name, with a few bad companies taken advantage of the system and many times committing fraud.  CRT was born, when Medicare created the Competitive bidding process and they didn't understand the level of involvement with Specialty Seating and Equipment. After much work from the Rehab industry, some specialty equipment was exempt from the competitive program; including ultra light weight wheelchairs, tilt in space wheelchairs, and group 3 powered wheelchairs.  Medicare, who sets precedent for Medical Equipment to all funding sources, accepted that the skill level and expertise in providing this level equipment was above the typical DME provider.

Since that time, NRRTS ( National Registry of Rehab Technology Suppliers ) and NCART ( National Coalition of Assistive and Rehab Technology ), has been lobbying Congress to further separate Complex Rehab equipment from DME.  It is understood that there is a value for this equipment provided and that there needs to be increased safeguards, and education from individuals providing this level of equipment. If  this industry is not protected, and the value shown, it will disappear in the upcoming years.  The average age of Rehab Technicians are late 30's, with most over 40, and few new people learning this trade.

Carey Britton

 With the baby boomers aging, we will need more specialists  involved; helping match proper equipment for seating and mobility needs.  A further issue causing challenge, is that there are fewer physician and therapists specializing in this field; leaving more pressure and expectations on the Seating and Mobility Specialists.   Although the Seating and Mobility Specialist is a critical component in the team that provides and supports these services; the clinician is  the gatekeeper, and we need more clinicians  to step up become community leaders. 

In order to ensure  good outcomes, we continue to progress in this industry with increased credentials, increased education, and increased safeguards to protect patients.  Our industry needs to continue to educate the allied services to become more involved in the team that is required to improve seating, function and overall satisfaction.

This article was written by Carey Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist at Active Mobility Center. He can be reached for comment at 954-946-5793 or at cbritton@wheelchairguys.com  .

 

Active Moblity Center at DisAbilities Expo 2013

This past Sunday, October 5th, was the Disabilities Expo which is the longest running expo for special needs in South Florida.  Active Mobility Center has been participating in this expo for nearly 20 years.  This years exhibit was larger, and more attended.  In addition to having equipment providers, there were several adaptive vans, many support organizations and a large number of new sports activities and groups to allow individuals with special needs an opportunity to get out there and be involved.

This year there was an all day wheelchair basket ball tournament and a runway fashion show. 

It was great to see many of our satisfied customers, and see many more individuals who were looking for education and guidance through the seating, mobility and equipment process. 

This was the first year we were able to have five members of Active Mobility Center at the exhibit to help showcase our products and services, as well to learn about other opportunities and services from other exhibiting providers.

If you didn't get a chance to get out to this event, look for this to recur next October. Carey Britton, is a Seating and Mobility Specialist with Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at 954-946-5793 or at cbritton@wheelchairguys.com

Adaptive Car Seats

This week, we were fortunate to have Debra Britton provide a presentation on Car Seat Positioning Equipment. This is a regular training program at Active Mobility Center to promote and educate products to the staff, customers and professionals. If you have an interest in any specific products or services, let our office know so you can receive an invite to the programs.

Car seats are essential and mandatory for small children in motor vehicles. As children grow, or have seating and positioning needs greater than a off the shelf carseat, an Adaptive Car Seat may be necessary.  Off the shelf car seats have been crash tested as they sit so it is not recommended to add any foam/changes to these systems. Although this may work well, it changes the product and places any legal responsibility on this person in the event an accident arises.

Car Seats can be a challenge for parents with special needs, as they are not covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance carriers. Medicare (Sadmerc) determined coding, and Car Seats as a transportation device and used outside the home are not covered items.  It is important to note that there are alternative funding sources that may be able to help.

Car Seats are more safe than transporting children in their primary mobility systems (ie. wheelchairs) even if transport brackets are added. Transport Brackets, also not funded through most insurance, although allow a place to strap a wheelchair into a bus or van, are not intended, as stated in their owner's manuals, with the use to be seated in the chair while it is strapped down.  Tie downs are a topic for another presentation. 

There are several products available for this purpose including products from; Columbia Medical, Convaid, SnugSeat, and Thomashilfin.  These products should not be looked at as a one product fits all, and each have certain benefits which can help a particular child.

Car Seats

The Traveller Plus EL, Carrie, Hippo, and IPS are all adaptive Car Seats. These system are similar to off the shelf systems, but are larger, and offer more padding and support to provide support and stability for a special needs child/adult.  These systems allow for a 30 pound to over 100 pound person to use them with the abililty to adjust many of them in seat depth. Some of these offer foot supports and some allow the feet to hang.

Booster Car Seats

This category comprised of the Recaro, and Pilot offer another option for support and adjustability. These systems look more like the off the self booster / car seat systems. They work really well, but have limitations in width adjustment.

More Supportive Car Seats

Recently the Carrot and Spirit systems have entered the market, offering supports similar to what you would see in a wheelchair in a car seat. For larger and involved clients needing extensive support; these systems may be the answer.

Common Questions

How do I know what product to Pick?
These products range from $500 to several thousand depending on the options and needs. Choosing a product should include the assistance of a Physiatrist, Physical or Occupational Therapist and a Seating Specialist. Since this equipment is expensive, you do not want to waste valuable resources on the wrong product.

Where do I get these products?
Most Seating and Mobility companies stock Demo's of these products and can assist you in trialing them for fit, and helping make recommendations after discussing the vehicle and assessing the patient with a therapist or physician.

Who Installs these products in my vehicle?
This is getting more difficult due to our litigious society.  There are certified people in the community who install car seats and should be consulted if after reading the directions you have any concerns or questions.

We want to Thank Debra for providing an outstanding training program and look forward to her next topic.  This article was re-written by Carey Britton, Seating Specialist for Active Mobility Center. Carey can be reach at (954) 946-5793 or at cbritton@wheelchairguys.com .

 

Active at Joe Dimagio Special Needs Fair

On Sunday September 28th, Active Mobility Center supported the Joe Dimagio/Memorial Health Care System for the sixth year.  It was a great representation of the community which offers services to the special needs community.  There were groups from Hospitals, Therapy Centers, Respite, Day Training Programs, Home Accessiblity, Financial Services, local support groups/services and ofcourse the Pirates and Mermaids. 

We saw many of our loyal customers and referral sources.  It was a great time.


Carey Britton, is the seating specialist with Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com.

New Quantum Edge with TB3 Seating



During a weekly training meetings we had our local Quantum Rep, Tim, who brought in the new Quantum Edge, mid drive powered wheelchair with a Tru-Balance 3rd Generation Powered Seating System. 

There are similarities to the Permobil seating systems, and some items that have been improved on.  There is an industry trend to make powered wheelchairs less medical and more economical.

The new seating allows for several adjustments to be made while the user is sitting in the chair. The seating can be configured with powered tilt, powered recline, powered legs and powered seat elevator.

The seat elevator is a big improvement with a scissor lift that raises the user 10". The scissor lift over a post elevator is much more durable and more sturdy when being transported in a vehicle. The new seat frame has extensive adjustability for growth/change. The arms appear to be very durable, and adjustable.  The new options including hand grips, hydration unit, cell phone holder, and back pack clips all will help users with increase independence.

The new Joystick is very streamlined, with trim that makes it look very classy. The display is color, and the horn can be programmed to be louder than in the past.

With all new systems, users can choose two standard accessories (cup holders, phone holder, accessory clip or reflectors) that will come complimentary with their new chair.

This article was provided by Carey J. Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist with Active Mobility Center. Carey can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com .

Molded Seating at Active Mobility

Each week at Active Mobility Center, the staff presents on products and services to ensure staff properly educated. This week Robert Bowman and Carey Britton provided a joint presentation on Molded Seating Systems.

Molded Seating Systems are very specialized seating where an impression is taken of the patient, and where a seat and back is created that matches this shape. Molded Seating is expensive, custom, and is not for everyone.

We consider Molded Seating when a patient has asymmetrical postures that cannot be supported by off the shelf, planar seating or modular seating.  These patients are seen by a physician and ruled out for a TLSO (body brace) and where less supportive seating will not support and protect the patients posture from further decline/deformity.

There are many factors to consider when deciding on molded seating. After determining that other seating will not accommodate the patients posture; we need to determine the environment the equipment will be used, who the caregivers are, and if there will be any foreseen changes in condition.  For children and individuals who change weight/size, there is concern for molded seating to be outgrown. Additionally if there are multiple caregivers, there is concern that the patient will placed in the seating the same way each time; failure to sit in contours properly can increase pressure, or cause postural issues.

There are several types and brands of molded seating.  The most common is Silhouette, Pindot, OBSS, and Ride Designs. Each has its benefits, and after a thorough evaluation, each can be considered to best meet the goals and needs of the patient.

Molded Seating traditionally was covered in vinyl, however over the years several options and foam densities are now available. Gel, Air and Visco Foam Inserts and overlays can be used to help with pressure, posture and positioning.

Prior to molding a patient, a clinician should be involved to determine the limitations and range in anatomy to determine the best position for the patient for siting, posture, stability and function. 

Please contact Carey J. Britton, seating specialist for Active Mobility Center for any questions or information on Molded Seating or seating/positioning needs. He can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com  .

Walker & Wheelchair Combo

For years we have consulted customers for four wheeled walkers and companion wheelchairs. For individuals who limited ambulation and nee the support from a walker and fatigues needing a seat, the four wheeled walker has been a great solution. For long distances, these walker users, have sat on the seat and had a caregiver push them which is not safe; but for many transporting a walker and wheelchair is not practical.

Now mobility challenged individuals have another choice, a 4 wheeled walker, with seat that converts to a companion wheelchairs.

 

 

 

This article was provided by Carey J. Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist for Active Mobility Center and can be contacted at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com . 



Wii Wheelchair Gives Mobility to Disabled Infants

• Cerebral Palsy
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Paralysis Cures
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Traumatic Brain Injury

Technology is amazing; this has been used in NY as a creative game that teaches mobility challenged children how to safely drive a powered motorized device (PMD). This information was shared to me from a local therapist in South Florida as we were talking about emerging technology for children and adults with mobility challenges.

 

A team of researchers, in 2009 developed the prototype of a motorized wheelchair in order to provide “safe powered mobility to infants with physical disabilities who are less than two years of age.” IC Tots on Bots is a collaborative research project among the departments of Computer Science, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy at Ithaca College in New York.

The balance board has responsive pressure sensors in each of its four corners and built in Bluetooth capabilities. They are using a commercial Bluetooth adapter and WiiYourself! C++ library to access balance board data within our robotics software. Their software compares the values of the four pressure sensors to determine which, if any, direction the infant is leaning. When a sustained lean is detected, the robot begins to move in that direction. When the child reaches out for an item, he or she leans in the direction of the item and moves towards it. We believe this will be the most intuitive method for a young child to learn to use.

Because each child moves differently from any other, the researchers are working on creating parameter files that are tailored to the individual. In addition, the Pioneer 3 robotic platform uses sonar to keep from bumping into objects, which helps keep babies safe from collisions. For ultimate peace of mind, there is also a remote-control joystick that provides wireless parental override.

                                 

 

It is great when people think outside the box and apply different technologies to create new solutions that may improve people's lives.  This should be a great tool in schoos and therapy centers to help children to move through space, increase development and improve independence.

 

This device was not found currently available in a recent search.

 

Carey Britton, Seating and Mobility Specialist for Active Mobility Center can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com

 

What is a Seating and Mobility Specialist?

Most people are unaware of how important seating is, especially when you are confined to a mobility device.  For years companies outside the medical equipment industry have been studying chairs, and standing. In the business world, there are studies that show loss of productivity, as well as work related injuries from sitting too long, or in chairs that are not ergonomically correct.   If so many studies have been documented on ambulatory individuals; wouldn't it be true that wheelchair users are much higher risk?

Traditionally the Seating Specialist was a physiatrist, physical or occupational therapist; however with changes in funding, reductions in reimbursements and the changing equipment/technology, this role is being done by the equipment supplier.

Now called a Seating and Mobility Specialist, this position is  a very important one. They sit at the same table as the physician and clinical therapists when discussing and offering suggestions on seating and mobility equipment based on the patients physical and environmental needs.  They know how insurance and funding work, and can help you navigate through this process. They are a resource, helping make recommendations to other medical equipment services.

The Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS), is a certification that requires continuing education to maintain the credentials. This ensure that have the skills and most current trends and knowledge. 

For anyone who needs seating and mobility equipment, it is important to discuss your needs, goals and expectations with one of these professionals to ensure your satisfaction and ensure life quality.

This article was written by Carey J. Britton, seating and mobility specialist for Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com

Life is a Journey of Personal Growth

You may find it interesting to know that many of the most successful people in this world did not stop at Highschool or College for their education.  It is said to stay Green and Growing, as when you become Ripe; you are eaten or become rotten.

For me, I found myself nearly a year ago becoming frustrated in my career. After 20 years of building Active Mobility Center, spending countless hours learning about wheelchairs, scooters, powered wheelchairs, seating and positioning; learning on webinars, symposiums and conventions about the newest technologies, and approaches to fitting this equipment- I realized that although I was becoming the expert in my field; I had lost some of the passion of growing my vision and direction of the company.

Let me be clear, I enjoy what I do, and I am one of the most passionate people in my industry. Knowing that I was missing something and not having a mentor to guide me, I looked for a business coach.  At the same time in my life I found another  business I am interested in; not shockingly it is also in the health care field, has proven science, and is helping people live a more independent and fulfilling life. 

Both of these changes in my life have made me a much better person. They say that you are a combination of the five most influential people around you. If you want to be better, surround yourself with better people.

What I have learned about the saying above, is that even if we are working in a field we enjoy, making the world better,  have great friends and family; we still may feel something missing in our lives.  Life is changing and we need to change  if we want to stay relevant and valuable. If we become complacent we can lose our importance and disappear.

For many of the people I serve at Active Mobility Center, their lives have become dramatically influenced where life stands still. No longer being able to ambulate, or perform an activity can take over all of their energy and thoughts. If they are finished growing, they may feel like giving up; but if they are still growing, and open minded they realize that they can still do anything they set forth to do.

Personal Growth is painful, spending time learning, planning and taking the journey to improve your life.  I can tell you from experience, when you choose to grow, and find gratitude your life will be much more rewarding and enjoyable. You will spend less time complaining and blaming and more time living.

Please feel free to send me an email to comment on my article.

Head Positioning Options

We know that seating starts with the pelvis. Stablize the pelvis and posture/positioning is improved. We also know that the vision and head position can dramatically affect posture, positioning and function. Until recently we had options for posterior and laterally collapsing head postures, but had few options for anteriorlly collapsing head positioning. Forward collapsing head positions pull down shoulders and cause curving of the back which can lead to kyphosis.

Whitmeyr Biomechanix has a line of products that incorporates head straps to help reduce forward collapsing head postures.  These head supports have had success however with any spasticity or tone, they tend to fail.  Stealth Products makes a support called an I2I with combination chin prompt which can be affected. Metal Craft makes a Hawc support with articulating side supports that can prompt head upright. 

Symmetric Designs makes a product called a Savant, which is a moldable head support with ear cut outs with optional head strap that seems to have very good results; however it offers little movement, so with people who do not tollerate being straped it can be an issue.

The HeadPod is a newer product in the US, and it uses straps configured like what you would find in a  hard hat, that supports the head with an overhead support and line attached. This helps keep the patient's head upright and allows for dynamic movement. 

If you or a love one has an issue with head positioning, consult with your doctor,  therapist and
seating specialist to see what product may be right for you.

Carey Britton, Seating Specialist at Active Mobility Center can be reached at 954-946-5793 or by email cbritton@wheelchairguys.com.