C LI NI CA L P E RSP EC T IVE - C EU A RTI CL E
SEMINAL INNOVATIONS IN COMPLEX REHAB TECHNOLOGY MANUAL AND POWER WHEELCHAIRS Written by TOM BORCHERDING
The history of Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) has almost exclusively occurred within the past 60 years. A young industry by most standards, CRT history is rich with legendary innovators, influential leaders, passionate manufacturers and powerful brands. While the consumers we serve represent the heart of CRT, the center of CRT technology is the wheelchair itself. This article will take us on a journey covering the history of CRT manual and powered mobility in North America, reflect on how the seminal innovations and products from our history shape the CRT wheelchair industry of today, and take a quick peek at the CRT industry of tomorrow. The purpose of this article is twofold. First, to provide recognition for the seminal inventions, innovators, manufacturers and brands from CRT manual and power wheelchair history. Second, to build historical documentation that will put a smile on industry veterans while also serving to educate future generations of CRT professionals. While some written documentation covering CRT history does exist, much of our history lives in the memories of CRT veterans. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
NRRTS is pleased to offer another CEU article. This article is approved by NRRTS, as an accredited provider, for .1 CEU. After reading the article, please visit http://bit.ly/ CEUARTICLE to order the article. Upon passing the exam, you will be sent a CEU certificate.
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DIRECTIONS 2021.6
