National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What are the three points of support used to stabilize a child fitted with a wheelchair seating system for scoliosis?

1. The head, the pelvis, and rib cage

2. Both sides of the pelvis and the upper trunk on the convex side of the curve

3. The pelvis and the upper rib cage on the concave side of the curve and the apex of the curve on the convex side

4. The shoulder, pelvis, and knee all on the convex side of the curve

The correct answer is: The pelvis and the upper rib cage on the concave side of the curve and the apex of the curve on the convex side

The selection of the pelvis and the upper rib cage on the concave side of the curve, alongside the apex of the curve on the convex side, is pivotal for children with scoliosis. In a seating system for a wheelchair, it is essential to provide stability to address the spinal curvature effectively. By supporting the pelvis, upper rib cage, and the apex, the seating system can help maintain better alignment and provide the necessary postural control. The pelvis is critical as it serves as the foundation for the spine. If the pelvis is unstable or improperly supported, it can lead to further complications in alignment and posture. The upper rib cage's support is equally crucial since it directly influences the manner in which the thoracic spine aligns and functions. The apex of the curve on the convex side helps in maintaining balance and countering the tendency of the curve to progress. In this context, the other options do not provide the same level of support or do not accurately reflect the best practice for stabilizing a child with scoliosis in a wheelchair seating system. For example, focusing solely on the communal support on either side of the pelvis or emphasizing the trunk without a precise approach to addressing the curve's apex may not yield the optimal stabilization desirable for managing scoliosis. Therefore