Our OTA, Julie, had an inspiring visit with a client recently.
His goal was to self-propel his wheelchair, but this seemed a long way off at the beginning of his therapy journey. A significant weakness in his right arm prevented him from propelling the chair on the right-hand side leaving him with little control.
Therapy started by providing input around the shoulder and elbow working on the range of movement and coordination before any required movement from the hand. Working on passive ROM, weight bearing and stretching the ligaments/tendons allowed increased signals from the brain to the arm and hand. With Therapist support, the client was encouraged to transition from passive movement to activating the muscles himself.
He was clearly driven and not willing to give up easily, so Julie worked to stimulate and strengthen the neuro pathways using sensory techniques. Using visual and sensory strategies similar to mirror therapy, he was able to practice replicating the same movements that he was able to do with his left arm and that Julie was carrying out passively with his right arm. The objective of the exercise was to re-wire those connections from the brain to the limb, which control the movement.
The impact of such a simple technique surpassed both their expectations. After only two therapy sessions he was able to gently self-propel his wheelchair backwards and forwards using the active movement in both of his arms. His drive and determination in combination with Julie’s knowledge, skills and tenacity brought him one huge stride closer towards achieving his goal.