Rare diseases: matching wheelchair users with rare metabolic, neuromuscular or neurological disorders to electric powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs (EPIOCs)

Lorraine H. De Souza & Andrew O. Frank. Disabil Rehabil. 2015 Dec 30:1-10. [Epub ahead of print] DOI:10.3109/09638288.2015.1106599

The complex and diverse clinical problems of those with RDs present unique challenges to the multiprofessional wheelchair team to maintain successful independent mobility and community living. Powered mobility is a major therapeutic tool for those with rare diseases enhancing independence, participation, reducing pain and other clinical features. The challenge for rehabilitation professionals is reconciling the physical disabilities with the individual’s need for function and participation whilst allowing for disease progression and/or growth.