As the name might imply, the world of CRT can be complex. Which is why we want to help you understand it better. Complex Rehab Technology wheelchair systems are products that are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. They augment or replace function, while providing support surfaces, such as back, leg, head, and arm rests and mobility bases to enable you to participate in everyday life to whatever extent you are capable. These products are medically necessary, meaning they are mandatory to protect and improve the health status of a patient, or could negatively affect a patient’s condition if not prescribed. CRT wheelchair systems are also individually configured, so they are customized to the patient’s needs and disability. In theory, no two chairs are alike. 

People who have the following conditions could benefit from the provision of CRT: 

• Congenital disorders, such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida or muscular dystrophy 
• Progressive or degenerative neuromuscular diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or ALS 
• Injury, trauma or illness, such as a traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries

CRT wheelchair systems include a variety of products, including:

• Complex power chair systems

• Highly configurable manual wheelchairs

• Adaptive seating systems

• Alternative positioning systems

• Other specialized mobility devices

Complex Power Chair Systems	Standard Power Chair Systems
Intended for permanent or progressive diagnoses Advanced electronics and controls Individual seating & positioning Accommodates orthopedic issues Provides pressure management Ventilator accommodation	Intended for ambulatory limitations Basic joystick drive ONLY NO positioning NO orthopedic accommodations Provides NO pressure management NO ventilator accommodation

Your clinical team, including a certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) from Numotion, will help determine the right CRT product for you. There are many factors your ATP will look at when determining your chair, including your physical and functional skills, how well you can perform activities of daily living, functional mobility, and how well you access home/school/work and general transportation. 

Learn about how your ATP is an advocate and guide.

Additional Resources

NuDigest: Introduction to Complex Rehab Technology Wheelchair Systems

NuDigest: Steps to Better Bladder Health

A Nu You: Scott Chesney Vlog Series

Explaining the 7 Element Order: Required Documentation for Medicare-Funded Power Mobility

NuDigest: All Manual Wheelchairs Are Not Equal

NuDigest: Balancing Loaner Wheelchair vs Custom Wheelchair Needs for ALS patients

NuDigest: Are Community Based Seating Clinics the Future?

NuDigest: Benefits of Standing

NuDigest: Addressing Parent’s Perception of Powered Mobility

NuDigest: Powered Mobility and Play

NuDigest: Application of Ethics for Assistive Technology Professionals in Complex Rehabilitation Technology

NuDigest: The Mathematics of Complex Rehab Seating

NuDigest: Benefits of a Single-Source Provider for CRT and Urological Needs

NuDigest: The Importance of Properly Programming Powered Wheelchairs