New Seating Clinic Helps Those Who cannot Walk Find Their Independence

Augusta, Ga. -- Wheelchairs don't have to be big, bulky or uncomfortable.

So says Dr. Saima Samdani, a physiatrist with MCG's Department of Neurosurgery. Dr. Samdani, who specializes in adult physical medicine and rehabilitation, has debuted MCG Health System's first-ever adult seating clinic. There, she and her staff evaluate patients who cannot walk or who have difficulty walking long distances and help them find the perfect wheelchair.

"At MCG Health System, we have many specialities that treat patients who have lost the ability to walk," says Dr. Samdani. "Spinal cord injuries, amputations, stroke, chronic medical disorders and orthopedic problems are just some examples of the types of disorders faced by patients who might benefit from the seating clinic. And as a Neuroscience Center of Excellence, we're pleased to offer this additional service that allows our patients to have all their needs met in one place."

When it comes to wheelchairs, one size doesn't fit all. Dr. Samdani and her staff, which includes a physical therapist and representatives from local medical supply companies, use a detailed evaluation process to determine the right fit between patient and wheelchair.

"We look at a person's height, weight, posture and where the pressure points are when they are sitting in the wheelchair," says physical therapist Saku Sundaram. "Do they have appropriate cushioning on the chair? Is it comfortable? Do they want a faster or slower wheelchair? What is their activity level? These are the types of questions we ask to ensure a wheelchair of the proper size and configuration."

The result is a chair that fits precisely, both in terms of physical needs and lifestyle. In addition, the clinic will teach new users how to maneuver a wheelchair and will offer suggestions on how they can modify their home to accommodate wheelchair use.

"Your life isn't over just because you can't walk," says Dr. Samdani. "People in wheelchairs can work, drive, even compete in marathons. Our clinic helps these patients regain their mobility and their independence."

The clinic is open both to those who have lost the ability to ambulate, either permanently or for the short-term, and those who already have a wheelchair and seek a reassessment. It meets the first Thursday of every month. For more information, call 706-721-2481.

MCG Health System is composed of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the Medical College of Georgia and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care. For more information, please visit MCGHealth.org.