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he ‘Push Yourself’ poster was
developed by Angela Ryan,
ParaQuad NSW Occupational
Therapist and presented at the
annual Australian New Zealand Spinal
Society scientific conference (ANZCoS) in
Perth last November.
The conference poster included current
evidence on wheelchair propulsion
techniques. Angela also developed an
accompanying brochure ‘Push Yourself’ —
a guide to correct wheelchair propulsion.
“Wheelchair propulsion is an essential
skill which enables wheelchair users to
participate in everyday life and maintain
their independence,” Angela says.
“Use of the correct propulsion technique
minimises stress and strain on the user’s
upper limbs. The high load placed on
the shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands
often results in injury or pain. Shoulder
pain for example can reduce the overall
performance of daily living tasks and
quality of life.
Early education is important to ensure
correct technique is being used to reduce
the incidence of injury or pain in the future.
We want new wheelchair users to be
better educated about correct wheelchair
propulsion technique, by using this easy
to understand brochure.”
ParaQuad’s Jennifer Greenaway also
presented a poster at the ANZCoS
conference, a summary of the findings
into the uptake and effectiveness of the
‘The Emergency Plan for People With a
Disability’.
When reviewed by clinicians, it was
found that the Plan was a useful tool
and there was an overwhelmingly
positive result with 89.47% stating
that they would recommend the plan
to clients.The Emergency Plan was
also nominated for a Zest Award in the
‘Exceptional Project within a Not For
Profit Organisation’ category.
ParaQuad Poster WinsAward
An information poster about correct wheelchair
propulsion technique wins best poster at a recent
conference.
ParaQuad News • Issue 1 Autumn 2016
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latest news
Main: Angela Ryan and Jennifer
Greenaway at ANSCoS; Angela
with her award
T