High-level quadriplegia: an occupational therapy challenge.
Rehabilitation of the C1 to C4 quadriplegic person is a relatively recent phenomenon. Few rehabilitation facilities accept the challenge these patients present. This paper describes a comprehensive occupational therapy program for the C1 to C4 quadriplegic person. It presents the objectives and mechanisms for treating these individuals (e.g., range of motion, strengthening existing musculature, functional activities training, pressure sore prevention, and equipment prescription) and introduces new approaches to increasing function through current therapeutic and engineering technological advances. The quality of life of these patients may well be determined by their exposure to functional activities in occupational therapy.
D006801:Humans; D009333:Neck; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000191:economics / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000534:rehabilitation; D014481:United States; D014910:Wheelchairs