Manual Wheelchair Configuration and Hybrid Mobility Solutions

Join us for two workshops on Manual Wheelchair Configuration and Hybrid Mobility Solutions

Morning Session: 9:00am to 12:00pm

Configuring the Manual Wheelchair: Translating Assessment Into Key Configuration Decisions

This workshop strengthens clinicians’ confidence and skill in manual wheelchair prescription by directly linking measurement, product selection, and component choices to functional outcomes. Moving beyond basic principles, this session focuses on the end-to-end scripting process – from assessment findings to final configuration – using a structured, evidence-based, informed framework.

Participants revisit key client and product measurement considerations, exploring how anthropometrics, posture, propulsion biomechanics and environmental demands translate into frame geometry, materials and configuration decisions. Emphasis is placed on system elements that influence efficiency, comfort, fatigue and long-term satisfaction.

This workshop then shifts to hands-on application, with clinicians analysing real manual wheelchair configurations, unpacking clinical reasoning trade-offs and how alternative priorities would change the prescription. Throughout, participants practice translating data into defensible product specifications and confident clinical justification.

Key Learning Areas:
By attending this workshop, participants will:

• Examine how clinical assessment findings inform manual wheelchair frame and component selection.
• Analyse how key wheelchair components influence function and performance.
• Apply structured clinical reasoning principles to elevate manual wheelchair configurations.
• Strengthen their ability to articulate prescription rationale to clients, caregivers and funders.

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Afternoon Session: 12:30pm to 2:30pm

When, Why And How: Integrating Hybrid Mobility Solutions With Confidence

Hybrid mobility solutions (manual wheelchairs with power add-on units) are increasingly used to support participation, manage upper limb demand and sustain independence for manual wheelchair users. However, variability in user acceptance and long-term benefits often reflects how and when these solutions are introduced, rather than the technology itself.

This workshop integrates user experience research, clinical reasoning and hands-on exploration to support confident, evidence-informed integration of hybrid mobility solutions. Drawing on literature and case studies, this session translates key user-reported themes – effort reduction, fatigue management, usability, performance, confidence and contextual fit – onto assessment and prescribing considerations.

Through case study discussions and hands-on interaction with power assist units, participants will build confidence in aligning hybrid mobility solutions with individual goals, environments, and long-term health, supporting purposeful, person-centred prescribing beyond product features.

Key Learning Areas:
By attending this workshop, participants will:

• Interpret key user outcomes from hybrid mobility and power assist research to inform clinical assessment and prescription.
• Analyse clinical indicators and contextual demands to determine when hybrid mobility solutions may best complement manual propulsion.
• Evaluate hybrid mobility solution features in relation to individual goals, environments, and upper limb risk factors through hands-on exploration.
• Apply evidence-informed clinical reasoning to prescribe hybrid mobility solutions that balance participation, performance and long-term wellbeing.

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Location: Macquarie Links International Golf Club, Lot 2 Macquarie Links Dr, Macquarie Links NSW 2565
Date & Time: Thursday, 5th March 2026 | 9:00 am – 2:30 pm
Who Should Attend: Prescribing Therapists
Ticket Selection: Select Full Day if attending both sessions, or choose Morning Only or Afternoon Only if attending a single session.

Certificates and CPD credits will be awarded for full attendance of the session. Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

SPECIAL GUEST PRESENTER:

The workshops will be led by Bianca Brady, Head of Clinical Education at APEX Mobility.

Bianca completed her Occupational Therapy degree in Sydney and has over 15 years of experience in the Australian health and community sectors. Specialising in physical rehabilitation and addressing the challenges posed by neurological conditions that impact daily life, she has built a career focused on supporting others to overcome barriers and enhance their quality of life.

Having worked in diverse settings, Bianca combines hands-on experiences with a passion for education, focused on creating and delivering learning opportunities in the fields of seating and wheeled mobility. As a dedicated advocate for individuals who use assistive technology to achieve their life goals, Bianca is committed to fostering growth, learning, and empowerment among both clients and fellow clinicians.