Wednesday November 27
1.00pm - 3.00pm
The Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic (REC) within WA Department of Health has been providing complex mobility, seating, and environmental solutions for clients with spinal cord injury for over 40 years. The team takes a multidisciplinary approach towards problem solving, designing new and customising existing assistive technology with clinicians, technical officers and engineers working in collaboration. This workshop outlines clinical factors that need to be considered when setting up this complex assistive technology and demonstrates some of the systems that REC has been instrumental in developing. The workshop will include 45 minutes of presentation time covering the various aspects of prescription and set up followed by one hour of hands-on opportunities to view and explore the equipment and 15 minutes of QA. Three different stations will be set up covering – Powered wheelchair (PWC) with alternative controls, Complex seating set ups with pressure mapping and Environmental controls through a PWC.
The learning objectives of this session include:
Introduction
This workshop presents a model of care for the assessment and management of shoulder pain in the spinal cord injured population (SPiSCI).
Key points
Shoulder pain is the most common musculoskeletal disorder affecting individuals with SCI population representing a personal burden for individuals and an economic burden to society. SPiSCI development is influenced by 1) underlying SCI demographics, 2) upper extremity reliance, and 3) psychosocial profile. SPiSCI impacts functions that load the shoulder through range of motion (e.g. dressing) or weight-bearing (e.g. transfers). SPiSCI develops insidiously, with increased shoulder load being the primary causative agent. Pain
provocation tests confirm the source of symptoms and rule out differential diagnoses; the shoulder then has its mechanics evaluated, focussing on range and strength profiles. SPiSCI management aims to improve the shoulders’ ability to generate and tolerate functional loading. Respecting pain, and managing it directly where possible, rehabilitation remediates causative mechanical impairments, achieved by a program that 1) strengthens tendons and their supporting musculature through resistance exercise, and 2) promotes loading capacity through progressive functional exercise. This approach is augmented with respect to pain
and psychosocial status.
Results/Opportunity for Learning
Whilst this model requires further verification, it is the first integrating shoulder pain in the spinal cord injured population with a comprehensive and accessible clinical blueprint to guide management.
Conclusion
SPiSCI is complex, with good management requiring neurological and musculoskeletal expertise. This model of care integrates best practice of shoulder pain management, within the context of the underlying neurological condition.
The Perfect Gaming Setup — Bridging the Gap Between Intention and Expression
Overview
This workshop is designed for those looking to confidently assess and recommend gaming as a viable option for clients with diverse abilities, or gamers aiming to streamline and optimise their play through novel customisation options. Our goal is to empower you with the tools and vocabulary necessary to explore complex gaming setups, so you can effectively advocate for gaming's benefits — entertainment, social engagement, therapy, personal expression – or enjoy them yourself.
Key Takeaways:
Topics Covered
Challenges & Future Trends
Bonus: A showcase of a 1-button playthrough of Super Mario 64!