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 4: Wheelchair Seating Assessment - Mat Exam Practicum This practicum session is Part 4 of the Wheelchair Seating and Mat Exam Series. In this session, participants will have an opportunity to practice basic supine mat exam procedures on each other while working in groups of 2-3. Procedures include assessing spine/pelvis flexibility followed by hip, knee, and ankle joint passive range of motion as it relates to a wheelchair seated position. Each procedure will be briefly demonstrated by the instructor, followed by time for practice and Q & A. Participants should bring a yoga mat and a goniometer to this session, and wear comfortable clothes as we will be getting on the floor.