MAT Evaluation – Wheelchair Seating.

A MAT Evaluation (Mechanical Assessment Tool), also commonly known as a MAT Assessment is designed to evaluate and identify any postural asymmetries, reduced motion range, contractures and muscle tone. This information is then used to determine the correct wheelchair seating to provide optimal postural support, pressure management and comfort.

The MAT Evaluation measures and makes an assessment on:

–          Range of Motion

–          Joint Flexibility

–          Muscle Length

–          Skeletal Alignment

Without a comprehensive assessment that identifies all the individuals seating system requirements you have a significant risk of a failed wheelchair script, leading to user discomfort and potential future health complications. This will often lead to a lengthy and costly process to correct.  

Key Benefits of a MAT Assessment

Optimal Comfort & Support: By providing insights and data on the user’s body shape and alignment. A MAT Evaluation enables the prescription of a tailored wheelchair seating system that provides optimal support and comfort.  

Pressure Management: Identifying weight loading areas and postural tendencies.
Custom seating components that effectively manage pressure can be utilised. Reducing the risk of skin break down and pressure injuries.  

Identification of Flexible vs Fixed Deformities: The assessment will determine if a postural issue is flexible and can be corrected with positioning and support, or if it is a fixed deformity and cannot be changed.

Postural Support: Distinguishing flexible and fixed postural deformities, appropriate levels of support to correct or manage these can be implemented. This can also help prevent further postural complications.

Greater Functional Capacity: A correctly designed seating system provides the user to gain full functionality from their wheelchair. This provides them the greater opportunity to participate in social and daily activities.

User-Centred Solutions: With a detailed result driven profile of the wheelchair user’s needs, the MAT assessment leads to an accurate and effective wheelchair prescription. This deeper understanding of the user’s needs and requirements prevents the selection of an inappropriate seating system. Saving time, money and resources over time.

Medical Benchmarking: A MAT Assessment’s detailed analysis provides a baseline data reference for future use. Annual MAT Evaluations on individuals with complex posture allows for tracking of progression in a variety of conditions. This crucial data provides important information that allows clinicians and equipment suppliers to make informed decisions on assistive technology.    

Summary.

Following the detailed process of a MAT Evaluation will provide an in-depth analysis of a client’s individual postural and seating needs and requirements. This ensures the wheelchair and seating system prescribed is matched to the user’s physical characteristics. With an optimal wheelchair seating solution, this will provide optimal comfort and support and lead to greater health outcomes and improved functional ability.