Functional Fitness in OT: The Adapted Deadlift for SCIs and Wheelchair Users

/ Dominique

Hey hi helloooo, I’m back! I’ve kind of been enjoying my time not studying and instead spending time with family and friends, doing hobbies, and reading non-OT books! I’ve been in the job application phase of life, but I have to be honest, it doesn’t feel right to not be immersed in the world of OT, so here I am trying to get back into it and educate myself right along with you guys!

I am an OTR, however I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Please consult your doctor prior to starting any exercise regimen. Even so, therapists, remember that this advice is not the end-all, be-all. Always consider the patient’s clinical profile, strengths, weaknesses, goals, and use your clinical reasoning!

The Conventional Deadlift: Benefits

I know a LOT of people both in and out of the fitness community have an opinion on the deadlift. As someone who has had low back injuries, I will admit that I think it should be limited to who does it, how often, and for what reason. That being said, you can’t deny that it is one of the most functional movements. We deadlift when we pick up a baby from the floor, when we’re hauling bags of salt or mulch from the floor of Home Depot to our shopping carts and home, picking up a heavy bag, lifting furniture… the possibilities are endless. Deadlifting with adequate strength and proper form is ESSENTIAL.

However, how can this benefit the individual with an SCI? Or a wheelchair user? It can still be functional! Individuals can still use it to pick up an object from the floor to their lap (and vice-versa), performing in sports, or even for the additional core and back strength gained from this movement which will enhance engagement in occupations.

Anatomy

What are you working when you conventional deadlift? What can you feel? Mainly:

  • All the back muscles (especially low back!)
  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings

4 Variations for the Adapted Deadlift

There are probably a whole lot more than the ones mentioned in this video. These can be great as a progression from beginner to advanced:

1. Bodyweight Goodmornings

2. Sled pulls

3. Dumbbell or kettlebell deadlifts

4. Adapted deadlift

And that’s the gist of it! I briefly mention sports wheelchairs because these are often seen in Adaptive CrossFit or other adaptive strength sports. Also, I just wanted to learn more about them and they’re really cool so I highly implore you to look them up! They tend to not have brakes, so balance and core stability are needed to use them, and sometimes even a partner to help stabilize the chair when doing certain exercises.

I really hope you guys enjoyed this and I hope it was at least a tiny bit helpful and informative! Please let me know if you have any comments or advice for me.

With love,

Dom ❤

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