Module 3 - Hands-on Assessment
Recording MAT
With client consent, take photos for all assessment stages whenever possible. Download "handy tips on taking photos for MAT assessment and wounds".
The MAT should be recorded on a form immediately after each assessment stage to prevent confusion. Click for sample detailed MAT assessment form which has more prompts and basic MAT assessment form which has fewer prompts.
Recording should include postural presentations, the range of movement and flexibility which can be described as:
- Fixed: the joint has restricted range of motion and will not assume a posture for desired skeletal alignment in seating without compensation from another part of the body or another joint movement. Thus, seating intervention aims to accommodate fixed deformities and prevent further development. Surgical and orthotic intervention should also be considered for those with severe deformities.
- Flexible: the range of motion in the joint is easily manipulated to assume the desired posture/position. Seating intervention aims to support neutral positioning and prevent deformities.
- Corrects with effort/partially flexible: the range of motion in the joint is manipulated with resistance to assume the desired posture when force is applied. Seating intervention aims to correct positioning and prevent deformities. Opposing force is applied and localised pressure should be monitored. Never correct to a maximum or beyond the range of motion as established in the supine assessment. Adjustment and progressive intervention is advisable. Surgical and orthotic options may be considered.
Interpreting MAT outcome
- Summarise the findings you record at each stage of MAT
- Compare these MAT findings to the medical history taken in the initial assessment (Module 2) :
- e.g, the fixed thoracic scoliosis apex at T5 detected was a result of spinal dislocation and surgery
- e.g, pelvic obliquity and lateral flexion of the neck in the seating system may have contributed to recent increasing neck pain on the left
- Make a comparison on the findings in supine and sitting assessments to establish a desired posture through simulation task, starting from the pelvis. Seating postural goals such as corrections or accommodations are then determined
- Seating trial products should be selected based on these established postural goals whilst considering the functional and environmental requirements established in Module 2