In last month's column, I discussed the growing use of power mobility devices in the U.S. and the need to offset any reduction in energy expenditure that might be associated with the transition from a manual wheelchair or other assistive mobility aid to a power chair by increasing physical activity. A few readers thought the article was a direct condemnation of all power mobility devices and that people should not use or rely on them. That is certainly not the case. In fact, I often suggest to friends and family members a balance between use of non-power mobility aids (manual wheelchairs, crutches, canes, walkers) and power mobility devices (i.e., scooters, power wheelchairs), especially when traveling longer distances to offset some of the repetitive stress associated with an altered gait or extensive pushing of a manual wheelchair.

To read this column, go to http://www.ncpad.org/752/3988/Response~to~Last~Month~s~Column~on~Use~of~Power~
Mobility~Devices.