Presenting A New Video
Wheelchair Mobility

by
Charlie Croteau

Charlie “Father of Wheelchair Mobility” Croteau released his comprehensive handbook on Wheelchair Mobility in 1998. Since that time, he has made further clarifications and improvements on the techniques discussed in the handbook. We are pleased to present the new instructional video called Wheelchair Mobility. In this video you will see actual demonstrations of all the discussed in the handbook presented in greater and in more readily understood format. The video format allows you to study in detail all the motions and techniques, as well as see the actual set-up and adjustments necessary for the best wheelchair performance.

Charlie Croteau, a C-6 quad, has taught wheelchair mobility to newly injured patients for over 27 years at Boston University Medical Center, a Model Spinal Cord Injury Unit, as well as Physical Therapy Schools at Northeastern University, Boston University, Massachusetts General Allied School of Health, Simmons College and others. This video was made by Manchester Community Technical College in cooperation with the Occupational Therapy Department as a teaching Tool for new students. Mr. Croteau presents the best available information on wheelchair mobility and wheelchair set-up in this video based on his personal experience as well as that of hundreds of patients he has worked with over the years. The video is 85 minutes long and includes the following segments.

Wheelchair Mobility – (55 minutes)

Introduction – Wheeling – Cornering – Wheeling with One Hand
Ramps – Uneven Surfaces – Doors – Wheelies
Jumping Up and Down Curbs

Quadriplegics

Wheeling with Projections – Backing up – Elevators
High Friction Rims and Knobby Tires – Cornering – Doors – Curbs

Setting Up the Wheelchair – (30 minutes)

The logic behind the choices:

Width – Seat Depth – Dump – Cushions – Adjusting Rear Wheels
Brakes – Making Brake Extensions – Caster Angle – Camber
Front End Choices (Sweep) – Hand rims – Tires and Wheels