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 2: Wheelchair Seating Assessment - The Mat Exam This didactic session is Part 2 of the four-part Wheelchair Seating and Mat Exam Series. The mat exam is a critical hands-on component of the physical assessment for wheelchair seating/mobility equipment and should be performed by a physical or occupational therapist. In this session we will take a deep dive into the specifics of performing the mat exam component of a wheelchair seating assessment for individuals with intermediate to complex seating needs. The presentation of mat exam procedures is supported by informative photos and diagrams of goniometer placement and angular measures. The relationship between joint motion, body segment angles and seating equipment angles is explained, including how to translate joint range of motion values into seating equipment angles. The clinical relevance of limitations in passive joint range of motion to seating equipment prescription is emphasized throughout the session.