Positioning is Dynamic and changes according to the environment and the task and the student.(SETT Framework)

"We cannot underestimate the effect of positioning on: socialization, interaction, motivation, confidence, participation, comfort safety and function." (Custom Solutions  http://www.customtyping.com/tutorials/at/low_incidence.htm)

The following are links to the areas on Custom Solutions Website (see above)

*****  Please note. There is some disagreement in the area of "Body Angles" with the students who have disabilities that are low incidence. These will be discussed in some of Karen Kangas's information.

• The Balance Between Support and Movement
• Body Angles
• Students who have Low Incidence Disabilities
• Students who have High Incidence Disabilities

In the case of switch use for alternative input the following is an excellent resource. Often the first place a switch is put is flat on the wheelchair tray in front of the student. The following will explain why that isn't usually the best place.

Before selecting a switch both joint movement and control need to be considered:

Joint movement: (click here)

Control Sites: (click here)

HIERARCHY for POSITIONING

Hips and Pelvis:  What is optimal?   - 90 degrees is NOT always best
 - Weight bearing and stabilization
- 'Optimal' and 'best' positions can be very different for different individuals
- Opening seat to back angle is often effective for improving lumbar curvature and improving upright posture of trunk and body, resulting in overall better control
- During assessment trials and while positioning of the pelvis at varying angles in terms of seat and back angle, evaluate the students' control of upper body movement 'with' and 'without' upper body strapping (e.g. butterfly harness).  Some students show remarkable improvement of upper body control with altered hip and pelvic angles.  Click here for more detail about seating angles. 

Tips for Positioning.docx Tips for Positioning

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