Ask most clinicians who a tilt-in-space manual wheelchair is for, and the answer usually involves words like "dependent," "passive" or "high support needs." This session asks a different question: what if the same technology, prescribed differently, could serve an entirely different population — active, independently propelling users managing pain, fatigue or long-term postural risk?

This session challenges that default thinking. We review the core components of tilt-in-space mechanisms and how differing designs support varying functional goals, before examining current evidence - regarding pressure redistribution, pain management, physiological benefits and participation outcomes.

We then turn to practical scripting: how to configure tilt-in-space manual wheelchairs for active users with differing propulsion styles, including considerations for frame design, weight, centre of gravity and accessory choices that preserve propulsion efficiency rather than compromising it. The aim is to equip attendees to move beyond prescribing tilt-in-space by habit or familiarity, toward feature-specific, evidence-informed decisions matched to each user's functional goals and propulsion needs.

This is not your usual session. Join us for this two-hour hands-on clinical and product-based session. Through case-based learning, we will get you up and, in the chairs, challenge your thoughts and applying out of the box solutions. You will leave with a clearer understanding and skills for identifying when PDG tilt-in-space manual wheelchairs may benefit active users, and practical strategies for scripting these systems in ways that enhance rather than restrict independence, participation and quality of life.

Join us for this hands-on session facilitated by the GTK Team, Betty Kuok – PDG Territory Sales Manager and virtually by Tilly Brook – Director of Clinical Services for Permobil APAC.

Meet the Presenters: Betty Kuok (Permobil)

Betty is an occupational therapist with a strong background in assistive technology. She began her career in a non-for-profit organisation developing custom assistive technology solutions for people with disabilities, specialising in adapted cycling. Then for several years Betty practiced as a community occupational therapist supporting people with neurological conditions and their complex assistive technology and seating needs. She later joined Permobil as a field technician, with interest in understanding wheelchair mechanics and electronics. Betty now works as Permobil’s tilt-in-space specialist for the PDG Mobility product range, combining clinical insight and technical expertise to support users and clinicians.

Tilly Brook (Permobil)

Tilly Brook, OT is Director of Clinical Services for Permobil APAC. She has extensive experience working as an Occupational Therapist within wheelchair and seating in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Her passion for this area of practice started whilst working in Brain Injury Rehabilitation and continued to grow. Tilly has assisted in the development of clinical teams, and now focuses on upskilling, education, mentoring and developing best practice guidelines for clinicians in the field throughout Asia Pacific. Tilly holds a Bachelor of Health Science and a Masters of Occupational Therapy (Hons). When Tilly is not working, you will find her spending time with her family and planning their next travel adventure.

Contact the host of It’s Not All About Pressure. Tilt-in-Space as a Tool for Independence and Functional Mobility (Sydney)