Manual Wheelchairs - World Health Organization

3.3.7 Fitting
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Objective
The objective of good practice in fitting is to ensure that the selected wheelchair has been correctly
assembled and to make final adjustments to ensure the best fit.
Fitting is a critical step. At the fitting, the user and clinical and technical personnel ensure that the
wheelchair fits correctly and supports the user as intended. A fitting may take between 30 minutes
and 2 hours or more, depending on the complexity.
During fitting, the user and competent personnel together check that:
• the wheelchair is the correct size;
• the wheelchair is correctly adjusted for the user;
• any modifications or postural support components are fitting correctly; and
• the wheelchair meets the user’s mobility and postural support needs and minimizes the risk of
the user developing secondary deformities or complications.
Fig. 3.2. Fitting the wheelchair to its user
Box 3.9. Good practice in fitting
n All users have their wheelchair individually fitted by personnel trained to do so.
n Whenever possible, fitting is carried out by the same personnel that assessed the user.
n The fit of the wheelchair (including any seating or postural components) is first assessed with the user sitting in the
stationary wheelchair. When the fit is acceptable, it is then further assessed while the user self propels or is pushed.
n If the wheelchair fit is not acceptable, further adjustments are made. If an acceptable fit cannot be achieved,
alternative equipment or a reassessment may be necessary. The wheelchair cannot be provided to the user until the
fit is acceptable.
n There is provision for more than one fitting appointment for users with more complex needs, such as those with
postural deformities.
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