The Mat Exam is a critical component of a comprehensive wheelchair seating assessment, especially for individuals who present with postural asymmetries and/or posture related problems. Performing a mat exam for seating requires not only advanced motor skills and handling techniques, but also an understanding of foundational principles of seating and the prescription of seating equipment angles. This four-part series will include an overview of wheelchair seating foundational principles, an in-depth review of mat exam procedures, a mat exam live demonstration with a wheelchair user, and a hands-on mat exam practicum.

Part 1: Wheelchair Seating Assessment Foundational Concepts This didactic session is Part 1 of the four-part Wheelchair Seating and Mat Exam Series. This presentation will provide an overview of foundational concepts that are critical to successful outcomes in the provision of wheelchair seating equipment clinical services. These include an emphasis on equipment features vs products, optimal seated posture vs. neutral posture, and an introduction to key seating angles and how they relate to joint motion.