Glossary of Assistive Technology Terms

This glossary provides clear, professional definitions for technical terms frequently used in the mobility and assistive technology industry. It is designed to help clinicians, distributors, and users communicate effectively with the Loh Medical support team.

Mobility & Seating Dynamics

• Abduction: The movement of a limb or body part away from the midline of the body. In seating, an abductor (pommel) is often used to keep the legs from crossing.

• Adduction: The movement of a limb toward the midline of the body.

• Anterior Tilt: A seating position where the pelvis rotates forward. Conversely, Posterior Tilt involves the pelvis rotating backward.

• Kyphosis: An exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic region of the spine, often resulting in a "slouched" or rounded back posture.

• Pressure Mapping: A diagnostic tool used by clinicians to visualize the pressure distribution between a user’s body and their seat cushion, helping to prevent pressure ulcers (sores).

Manual Wheelchair Components

• Axle Plate: The component on a manual wheelchair frame that secures the rear wheel axle. Often adjustable to change the center of gravity.

• Camber: The angle of the rear wheels in relation to the vertical plane. Increasing camber (angling the tops of the wheels inward) improves lateral stability and makes the chair easier to turn.

• Center of Gravity (CoG): The point where the weight of the user and the wheelchair is balanced. Adjusting the CoG forward or backward affects the chair's stability and maneuverability.

• Dumping (Seat Squeeze): The angle of the seat relative to the floor. A "deep dump" means the back of the seat is significantly lower than the front, providing more trunk stability for active users.

Power Wheelchair & Electronics

• Drive Wheel Configuration:

  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Provides excellent traction and power for climbing obstacles.

  • Mid-Wheel Drive (MWD): Offers the smallest turning radius, making it ideal for indoor use.

  • Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Known for stability and high-speed tracking outdoors.

• Joystick: The primary input device used to control the direction and speed of a power wheelchair.

• Proportional Control: A type of control where the speed and direction of the chair are determined by how far and in what direction the joystick is pushed.

• Tilt-in-Space: A function that allows the entire seat (seat and backrest) to tilt backward while maintaining the same hip angle, used for pressure relief and postural management.

Clinical & Technical Service

• Custom Molded Seating: A specialized seating system created from a mold of the user’s body to provide maximum support and pressure distribution for complex postural needs.

• L-Code: A standardized code used in the United States healthcare system (HCPCS) to identify specific orthotic and prosthetic procedures and equipment for insurance reimbursement.

• Serial Number (S/N): The unique identifier for a device, typically found on the frame. This is required for all Loh Medical technical support requests to identify the correct parts and warranty status.

Accessibility & Environment

• Curb Cut: A solid ramp graded down from the top surface of a sidewalk to the surface of an adjoining street.

• Turning Radius: The amount of free space required for a wheelchair to make a complete 360° turn. This is a critical measurement when evaluating home or office accessibility.